We have listed the most commonly asked questions, but if you have a question and it is not listed on our FAQ section, please contact us with your question.
A. Choosing the correct magnet for you application is critical. The short answer is “it depends”. It depends on many factors and variables. As you start to consider which magnet is correct for your application, here are some factors to consider:
What is the application (motor, medical, holding, etc.)?
What is the maximum temperature that the magnet will be exposed?
What is the environment that the magnet will be operating in (salt water, chemicals, etc)?
Will this magnet be in an assembly and possibly affected by other materials that are ferrous?
Q. What magnet materials are available?
A. There are many different magnet materials available, which we are able to provide. These include neodymium, samarium cobalt, alnico, ferrite, bonded neodymium, bonded samarium cobalt, bonded ferrite, injection molded neodymium, injection molded samarium cobalt, rubber stripping, and FeCrCu. If there is another material you wish to procure, please contact us.
Q. Do all magnets need to be coated?
A. Neodymium magnets should have a coating applied to avoid corrosion. Since Neodymium magnets are made from metallic materials, corrosion will occur if not coated. Samarium Cobalt magnets do not need to be coated unless there is an environment that is working under vacuum or is acidic. Some applications will require a coating for cosmetic purposes.
Q. What is the strongest magnet that I can get?
A. Neodymium magnets are the strongest materials available, and range in strength from 35 mgo to 55 mgo. But the more important question should be “what is the correct magnet strength that I need for my application?” Call one of our technical sales people to understand what material strength may be best for your application.
Q. What is the best size and shape for my application?
A. With advancement in machining and assembly processes, magnets can now be produced in almost any shape or size imaginable. For a list of size and shapes that we carry, visit our products page, but this list is definitely not all inclusive. We have worked with customers that have asked us for shapes that are unique an individualized, which we have been able to engineer and machine to meet specs.
Q. How do I test the magnetic strength of my magnet?
A. Magnet strength can be determined by using a gauss meter or hysteresis graph. But, most important is to test the magnet in the application where possible. If your magnet is being used in a motor, then you will want to test the flux density of the entire magnetic assembly using a coil, or measuring torque. If your magnet is being used in a holding application, then testing pull or shear force will be required. Selecting the correct magnet at the beginning is very important, but making sure the magnet is performing according to your specification each time will determine the appropriate test needed.
We needed some samarium cobalt magnets of a specific size and magnetization that weren't sold anywhere as a stock item. SM Magnetics manufactured and delivered them swiftly without hassle. Very friendly staff and great products! Would definitely recommend.
We have been using SM magnets for almost 5 years for custom and standard magnets. The service is excellent and the product is precise and good quality.
I have been using SM Magnetics for almost 10 years for custom magnets used in hydraulic and pneumatic cylinders. the staff is easy to work with, and the quality is top notch
