Category: World of Magnets

Magnets are amazing objects that are used in countless applications. Their ability to interact with metals and other magnets in a truly unique way has continually fascinated scientists. Magnets have been around for almost as long as the Earth, but earlier magnets were generally weak and extremely rare to most people. Today, extremely strong neodymium magnets are made every day and are available to almost everyone. This ability to manufacture such powerful magnets has led to countless breakthroughs, from speakers and hard drives to powerful electric motors and MRI machines. Let’s take a look at the process of making strong neodymium magnets.  

  

Mining and Milling 

  

Neodymium magnets are made from a combination of metals that must be mined from the Earth. Just like gold, these rare-earth metals are collected from large mines and transported to a mill to be crushed down into more manageable sizes. Neodymium magnets, the strongest commercially available magnets, are made from a combination of iron and neodymium. Both of these materials are ferromagnetic, meaning that they have the ability to hold a magnetic field. This means that these metals are basically already magnets, but the alignment of the material does not produce a strong magnetic field in one direction. China, boasting the most significant reserves and the highest production capacity, dominates the rare-earth market, contributing over sixty percent of the world’s supply. They also are the largest producers of finished magnets. The largest mine in the world is the Bayan Obe mine in North China. This single mine holds over 40 million tons of rare-earth material. 

  

Separation and Sintering 

  

Once the materials have been mined and milled, they are sent to a separation facility where the different metals are separated out, collected, and sent to the manufacturing factories. Once the metals reach the manufacturing factories, they are broken down into a very fine powder. This process ensures that as much of the material can be aligned toward the desired direction in later processes. The more material aligned, the stronger the magnet. After this, the fine powder is pressed into the desired shape and placed into a sintering furnace. This furnace helps to ensure that the material is joined permanently together and will not easily fall apart by “sintering” the material together. Final Preparations and Magnetization At this point in the process, the material for the magnet is ready for the final fine-tuning processes before magnetization. The blocks of material are machined down to the precise dimensions required and plated with a protective coating to prevent the rusting of the magnet. There are many different plating options for a variety of applications. If you are interested in learning more about the various available plating options, you can find a helpful guide here on our website. After plating, the block of magnetic material is given one final inspection to ensure that the coating and the dimensions of the magnet are correct. Once everything is checked, the material is ready to become a magnet. It is placed into a machine that delivers a powerful magnetic field through the material, forcing the alignment of the magnetic material. The now-aligned magnet will produce a strong magnetic field. The magnet is now a fully functional and very powerful permanent magnet ready to be used in a countless number of applications. 

  

Conclusion 

  

These amazing magnets represent a triumph of human ingenuity and technological advancement. From the fine powder stage to the precision machining and protective plating, every step is essential in crafting magnets capable of powering speakers, propelling electric vehicles, and facilitating medical diagnoses. What will you use these powerful magnets for?  

From electronics and Manufacturing to renewable energy and healthcare, the applications of neodymium magnets are vast and diverse. Their unparalleled strength, compact size, and versatility make them invaluable in countless industries and products. Incorporating neodymium magnets into your projects or products can unlock a world of possibilities, offering enhanced performance, efficiency, and functionality.

Electronics and Technology:

Within the electronics and technology sector, magnets play such a crucial part as they are used in some everyday items that we see daily. These magnets can be found in speakers, headphones, and microphones, where they help produce a high-quality sound. The strong magnetic field provided by neodymium magnets ensures accurate and precise audio reproduction, which makes them ideal for capturing high-fidelity sound in various applications, including music recording, telecommunications, and broadcasting. The compact size of neodymium magnets allows for the design of smaller and more efficient audio devices without compromising the quality. Sensors are commonly used in electronic devices and are utilized with magnets as they can control the movement of mechanical components in response to electrical signals. Given the various applications in which neodymium magnets are used, it is good to recognize the pivotal roles that they contribute to in the advancement of electronics and technology.

Manufacturing and Engineering:

In the Manufacturing and engineering sector, neodymium magnets are valued for their strength and reliability. These magnets are utilized in magnetic separators that help remove unwanted metal contaminants from raw materials in mining, food processing, and recycling industries. Lifting heavy equipment is a common occurrence in the manufacturing process, and neodymium magnets are utilized to lift heavy equipment to be leveraged to fit and hold ferrous materials securely. Neodymium magnets are also used in magnetic bearings, which provide frictionless support and innovative transportation solutions where they can ensure smooth and stable operation even in demanding industrial environments. Overall, these magnets allow for precise motion control, sensing capabilities, power generation, frictionless support, and innovative transportation solutions.

Renewable Energy:

The renewable energy sector benefits significantly from the use of neodymium magnets as they are a vital component in the generators of wind turbines, which help convert kinetic energy into electrical energy. Electric Vehicles contain neodymium magnets that power their propulsion systems; in electrical vehicle motors, neodymium magnets are typically used in conjunction with other magnet materials to create a magnetic field that interacts with stator windings, causing the rotor to spin and drive the vehicle forward. Hydropower systems and Tidal and Wave Energy also use neodymium magnets to help optimize efficiency and performance.

Medical Devices:

In healthcare, neodymium magnets are used in various medical devices and equipment. These can be found in (MRI) machines commonly used for diagnostic imaging of internal body structures. Neodymium magnets are also incorporated into various medical implants and devices to provide therapeutic benefits and improve patient outcomes. One standard medical device that many of us know is a hearing aid, which utilizes magnetic coupling to transmit sound vibrations directly to the inner ear. The unique properties of these magnets make them invaluable in many of the medical devices and equipment we use in the world of healthcare.

 

If you ever spend time looking for a new writing surface, you will most likely come across two popular choices: glass boards and whiteboards. Both use erasable markers and can be found in offices, classrooms, and hospitals everywhere. While both are excellent options, it is a good idea to look at the differences between the two choices to make the best choice for your unique space. 

 Whiteboards

 

 

Traditional whiteboards hold their ground with a familiar usability that many find comforting. They boast versatility in terms of size and installation options which makes them a great choice for a wide range of environments and preferences. A whiteboard can cover an entire wall or can be a small, hand-held board for notetaking or a quick game of hangman in the car. The whiteboard is also very light allowing nearly anyone to move even a larger one from room to room. As with both of our options, the whiteboard’s strength lies in its ability to keep a space clean and organized. They also allow for a spectrum of color possibilities beyond the simple white of the chalkboard, making it easier to organize information and helping prevent whoever is using the board from being covered in clouds of white powder. One of the few downfalls of the whiteboard is that it must be regularly cleaned to avoid leaving smudges and colored “fog” on the board. The best way to prevent this from happening is to clean the board after every use and to avoid leaving writings or drawings on the board for too long.  

Glass Boards 

 The glass board is like the whiteboard in many ways with the main difference being (you guessed it) a glass writing surface. Glass boards exude a sleek and modern aesthetic, elevating the ambiance of any workspace. Glass boards are favored in contemporary office environments for their smooth appearance and durability, adding a touch of sophistication and making a stylish statement. The boards can come in many different colors and different transparencies allowing you to choose a board that fits the design of your space. Durability is another key advantage of glass boards. Unlike traditional whiteboards, which can become scratched or stained over time, glass boards are highly resistant to wear and tear. The non-porous surface of the glass is easy to clean and maintain, ensuring a pristine writing surface that retains its clarity and brilliance even with regular use. One downfall of the glass board is that it can be extremely heavy and may sometimes even require special installation. 

 Additional Factors to Consider  

 

Magnetic Capabilities  

 

Considering magnetic capabilities is essential when selecting the appropriate board. While traditional glass boards may offer magnetic features as an add-on compared to traditional whiteboards, tempered glass inherently lacks magnetic properties. However, you can opt for glass boards with embedded magnets for a convenient display of documents and lightweight materials. In contrast, whiteboards are naturally magnetic, thanks to the metal backing beneath the smooth surface. Whether the board you are considering is magnetic or not is something to take note of.  

Cost Considerations 

 If you are looking for a more budget-friendly option, whiteboards tend to offer a more friendly option compared to glass boards. However, while glass boards may require a higher initial investment, their durability and longevity can justify the upfront cost in the long run. 

   

In the realm of transportation, one concept stands out as both complex and promising: magnetic levitation, often referred to as maglev technology. This revolutionary mode of transportation has captured the imagination of engineers, innovators, and commuters alike, offering the potential for ultra-fast, frictionless travel. The foundational principles of magnetic levitation were understood in the early 20th century, with significant advancements occurring throughout the mid to late 20th century. Practical applications of maglev technology for transportation emerged in the latter part of the 20th century, with the first operational maglev train, the SCMaglev, being developed and tested in Japan in the 1970s and 1980s. So, while the principles behind maglev technology have been understood for a long time, its practical application for transportation purposes has only recently begun to develop.  

 

Understanding Maglev Technology 

 At its core, magnetic levitation relies on the fundamental principles of electromagnetism to suspend and propel vehicles along a specially designed guideway without the need for traditional wheels, axles, or rails. This allows for achieving extreme speeds without creating excessive friction. The two primary types of maglev technology are electromagnetic (EMS) and electrodynamic (EDS) systems. EMS systems utilize electromagnets to create a magnetic field that repels the train from the guideway, allowing it to levitate. This is achieved by passing an electric current through coils in the guideway, which generates a magnetic field that interacts with other electromagnets or permanent magnets on the underside of the train. EMS systems are known for their stability and ability to adjust to changes in load and speed. On the other hand, EDS maglev systems utilize the principles of electromagnetic induction. In an EDS system, the magnets on the train induce currents in the guideway coils as they pass over them. These induced currents create a magnetic field that repels the magnets on the train, causing it to levitate. EDS systems are typically known for their high-speed capabilities and efficiency, as they don’t require power to be constantly supplied to the guideway coils. This makes EDS systems a compelling choice for high-speed trains.  

 

Real-life Examples 

While still in its infancy compared to traditional modes of transportation, maglev technology has demonstrated significant potential through various applications around the world. One of the most prominent examples is the Shanghai Maglev Train in China, which is the world’s fastest commercial maglev train, achieving speeds of up to 267 mph! This remarkable achievement underscores the immense capabilities of maglev technology for high-speed rail systems. Beyond Shanghai, maglev trains have been proposed and developed in several countries to address urban congestion, enhance intercity connectivity, and reduce travel times. Projects such as the proposed Chūō Shinkansen in Japan and the experimental Transrapid system in Germany serve as testaments to ongoing efforts to implement maglev technology on a larger scale. 

 

 

Challenges and Future Prospects  

Despite its promise, maglev technology faces several challenges that have hindered its widespread adoption. Chief among these challenges are cost, infrastructure requirements, regulatory hurdles, and public perception. The significant investment needed to develop maglev infrastructure, including specialized guideways and stations, has been a barrier to entry for many regions. Concerns regarding safety, reliability, and compatibility with existing transportation systems have contributed to skepticism among policymakers and the public alike, preventing many proposed projects from ever starting. However, ongoing advancements in materials science, magnet technology, and infrastructure development are steadily addressing these challenges, paving the way for the broader acceptance and deployment of maglev systems.  

 

Early History China

The history of magnets stretches back thousands of years, with evidence of their use dating back to ancient civilizations. One of the earliest known uses of magnets was in China around 200 BC. The Chinese were among the first civilizations to harness the magnetic properties of naturally occurring lodestone for practical purposes. Historical records indicate that by the 2nd century BCE, Chinese scholars had developed sophisticated compasses, known as “south-pointing chariots,” using lodestone suspended in water or on a floating platform to align with the Earth’s magnetic field. This innovation revolutionized maritime navigation, allowing sailors to venture into uncharted waters with greater confidence and accuracy. In addition to their practical applications, magnets held symbolic significance in ancient Chinese culture. Because the scientific knowledge of magnets was extremely limited at that time, magnets were considered to be mystical objects that defied the normal rules of nature. They were associated with harmony, balance, and the five elements (wood, fire, earth, metal, and water) in traditional Chinese cosmology.

Greece

Ancient Greeks also made significant contributions to the understanding and use of magnets. In ancient Greece, the study of magnets was primarily driven by philosophical inquiry and scientific curiosity. Around 600 BCE, the philosopher Thales of Miletus observed that lodestone had the property of attracting iron, thus becoming one of the earliest documented instances of magnetic attraction and laying the foundation for the study of magnets and their attraction to different metals. The Greeks further explored the properties of magnets, leading to the discovery of vast stores of loadstone in the region of Magnesia, Asia Minor. This region is where we get the name “magnet” from. After the ancient discoveries made by civilizations like Greece and China, the study of magnetism continued to evolve across various regions and cultures, leading to significant advancements in understanding and utilizing magnets.

Renaissance Period

The Renaissance period (14th to 17th centuries) saw a resurgence of interest in classical learning and scientific inquiry in Europe. During this time, notable scholars such as William Gilbert, Tycho Brahe, and Johannes Kepler made significant contributions to the study of magnetism. William Gilbert, a renowned English physician, is often considered to be the “father of magnetism” for his groundbreaking work “De Magnete” in 1600. In his pivotal work, Gilbert conducted extensive experiments and observations on magnets, proposing that the Earth itself was a giant magnet and introducing the concept of magnetic poles. His work laid the groundwork for the understanding of magnetism to continue developing during the early modern period, with scientists like Robert Boyle, Edmond Halley, and Isaac Newton making further contributions that shaped the understanding and research of magnets moving forward. While discoveries about how magnets work and behave continued to be abundant, the inability to readily make strong magnets limited the practical applications of magnets until later in the modern era.

The Modern Era

The 19th and 20th centuries witnessed rapid progress in the study and application of magnetism, driven by advancements in science and technology. The development of stronger microscopes allowed scientists to see further into magnets than ever before and make critical findings about how magnets work. Perhaps the most notable magnet scientist of his period, Michael Faraday conducted experiments with electricity and magnetism that laid the foundation for the fascinating field of electromagnetism, leading to the development of electric motors, generators, and transformers. Since then, the discoveries around magnets have allowed scientists to create strong man-made magnets that are used in MRI machines, electric motors for cars, speakers, and headphones, and even the International Space Station. The widespread use of magnets in our daily lives is a testament to the transformative impact of past discoveries and innovations in magnetism. As technology evolves and scientific understanding deepens, magnets are expected to continue to play a critical role in applications of all kinds.

If you have a product idea, perhaps the most frustrating hurdle is not knowing how to navigate the path of turning your concept into a reality.  You know that if you could just figure out how to make your idea into a reality, it would be an amazing product. Not a problem! If you are serious about turning your ideas into something you can hold in your hand, we will lay out all the next steps for you to bridge the gap between concept and product.   

The steps to take a concept to reality are actually quite simple! While many small changes inevitably arise with most projects within each step, the three steps are design for manufacturing (often called DFM by engineers), sampling, and finally, production.   

Design for Manufacturing  

  Often called DFM, design for manufacturing is the process of taking your ideas and creating designs, usually in the form of an engineering drawing, that shows how your product should be made. This includes what materials will be used, what specifications or standards must be met, exact dimensions, and much more. Most people will use an engineering firm at this stage to make sure that their drawings are ready for the next steps. 

Sampling  

  Sometimes called prototyping, sampling is when you finally get to hold a product in your hands for the first time. In the event that the product is not exactly what you had envisioned, this is the important step of ensuring revisions and changes necessary to make your product its very best. Many people will create a prototype at this step with a 3D printer. Another alternative is to get a true sample from the manufacturer. While it’s more expensive, this allows you to refine and see what your product would look like in the next step.  

Production  

  Once all the small details have been ironed out, it’s finally time to start making your product. It is at this step that you will need to find a good manufacturer who can make your parts at a competitive price. After that, the only thing left to do is to create any samples necessary and start truly moving your idea into tangible products.    

Still feel stuck?  

  While the overall process might be straightforward, it can still be a lot. You could try to figure it out on your own or you can work with a company with years of experience in turning dreams into tangible products.    Amazing Magnets has a team of engineers, purchasing experts, and manufacturers who can hold your hand through the entire process. From understanding the basics of design all the way to full production, Amazing Magnets takes away the stress of the unknown.    If you are serious about launching your idea and making it a reality, visit our Custom Engineering design page!  

It is metal, right? 

If you have ever played with magnets as a kid, you were probably perplexed and surprised to find that your magnets just don’t seem to like certain types of metal. Why is that? Are some metals different than others? Let’s take a quick look at why magnets are not drawn to certain metals and how aluminum fits into the picture.

 

Why does it stick?

At the heart of magnetic attraction lies the alignment of electrons within certain materials, particularly metals. Metals like iron and steel, known as ferromagnetic materials, have electron configurations that readily respond to magnetic forces, allowing magnets to stick to them effortlessly. This is because an unequal distribution of electrons in these materials results in “mini magnets” called domains being formed within the atomic structure. When a magnet gets close to the material, these domains align with the magnet’s field, causing the material itself to turn into a weak magnet momentarily. This is why a nail can pick up paper clips shortly after being near a strong magnet.

 

Do magnets like aluminum? 

Contrary to ferromagnetic metals, aluminum belongs to the category of non-magnetic materials. The absence of magnetic attraction in aluminum can be traced back to its electron structure. Although aluminum does contain electrons, the more equal arrangement of these electrons doesn’t allow for a substantial magnetic field. As a result, magnets are not attracted to aluminum.

 

What about Eddy Currents?

While aluminum itself is non-magnetic, it is an amazing conductor of electricity. Because of this, an interesting phenomenon comes into play when a strong magnet field is moved past it. As a strong magnetic field moves past the material, the movement of the electrons in the material generates a magnetic field. This magnetic field generated by the material is opposite to the magnetic field of the magnet passing by. Because of this, a resistance between the magnet and the material is formed. This remarkable reaction is called an Eddy current. Eddy currents are extremely useful because of their resistance properties and are often used for frictionless brakes that can be found on almost any rollercoaster.

 

Conclusion

The mystery of why a magnet won’t stick to certain metals unravels through the intricate interplay of electrons and magnetic forces. The atomic world is truly one that keeps surprising scientists with amazing new applications all the time. While aluminum does not stick to magnets, the presence of eddy currents adds an extra layer of complexity, showcasing the versatility of aluminum in applications where its non-magnetic nature is an advantage.