What is a rare earth magnet?

10 Nov.,2023

 

Rare earth magnets are some of the most powerful magnets in the world. They are made from alloys of rare earth elements and offer a variety of benefits that regular magnets do not.
In this blog post, we will discuss what rare earth magnets are, how they are made, and how they compare to other types of magnets. We will also discuss their applications and why they are becoming more popular than ever before!
 

Although they are called "rare earth elements," they are actually not rare at all. In fact, some of them, like iron and aluminum, exist in high quantities. The term came about in the 1700s when these elements were first found in Ytterby, a village located in Sweden. Back then, since no one had discovered them before, they appeared to be rare. But as more and more of them were identified around the globe over time, it became evident that they weren't uncommon after all.

There are a total of seventeen rare earth elements: fifteen lanthanides, plus scandium and yttrium. The lanthanides are the fourteen elements with atomic numbers 57 through 70, from lanthanum through lutetium. Scandium and yttrium are also considered rare earth elements because they tend to occur in the same ore deposits as the lanthanides and have similar chemical properties.

Rare earth elements are found all over the world, but they are most commonly found in China, Brazil, India, and Australia. The largest deposits of rare earth elements are in China, which is estimated to have reserves of over 100 million metric tons.

Samarium and neodymium are the most widely used rare earth metals in magnetic applications. They are often used in combination to create what are known as rare earth magnets. These magnets are some of the strongest permanent magnets and offer a variety of benefits over other types of magnets.
 

What are samarium cobalt (SmCo) and neodymium (Nd-Fe-B) magnets?

Samarium cobalt (SmCo) and neodymium (Nd-Fe-B) magnets are the two most common types of rare earth magnets. They are both made from alloys of rare earth elements and offer a variety of benefits over other types of magnets.

SmCo magnets were first developed in the 1960s and are made from a combination of samarium, cobalt, iron, copper, and zinc. They are extremely strong and resistant to demagnetization, making them ideal for applications where high temperatures or frequent exposure to magnetic fields are a concern. SmCo magnets are also relatively expensive, which has limited their use in some applications.

NdFeB magnets were developed in the 1980s and are made from a combination of neodymium, iron, boron, and a few other trace elements. They are the strongest type of permanent magnet currently available and can be produced in a variety of shapes and sizes. Nd-Fe-B magnets are less expensive than SmCo magnets, which has made them more widely used in a variety of applications.

So, which type of rare earth magnet is right for you? It really depends on your application and what performance requirements you have.
 

Neodymium and Samarium Cobalt Magnet Characters

Rare earth magnets have several advantages and disadvantages. The most significant advantage is that they are the strongest type of permanent magnet currently available. This makes them ideal for a variety of applications where high strength is required, such as electric motors and generators.

A disadvantage of rare earth magnets is that they are relatively more expensive than regular magnets. This can limit their use in some applications where cost is a major concern.
 

Neodymium Magnets: Advantages

  • The highest magnetic field strength of any permanent magnet
  • Very high resistance to demagnetization
  • Affordable Price

Neodymium Magnets: Disadvantages

  • Brittle and can break easily
  • Low corrosion resistance

Samarium Cobalt Magnets: Advantages

  • Very high resistance to demagnetization
  • Can operate at higher temperatures than neodymium magnets without losing their magnetism
  • High Corrosion resistant

Samarium Cobalt Magnets: Disadvantages

  • More expensive than neodymium magnets
  • Brittle and can break easily

Which type of magnet is better? Neodymium or Samarium Cobalt? The answer depends on the application. For example, if you need a magnet that can withstand high temperatures, then samarium cobalt would be the better choice. If you need a magnet that is strong and inexpensive, then neodymium would be the better choice. It is important to choose the right type of magnet for your specific application.


The Applications of Rare Earth Magnets

 

What are rare earth magnets used for? The most common applications of rare earth neodymium magnets are in computer hard drives, printers and speakers, medical devices, crafts, and electric motors.

The most common applications of rare earth Samarium cobalt magnets are in electric motors, generators, and sensors. They are also used in some military applications. In conclusion, rare earth magnets have a wide range of practical uses in both consumer and industrial products. They are an essential component of many modern technologies.


Difference Between Rare Earth Magnets and Regular Magnet

The main difference between rare earth magnets and regular magnets is the raw material. Ceramic (or ferrite) magnets are sometimes called regular magnets because they're made of more common materials like iron oxide. Rare earth magnets are made of alloys that contain one or more rare earth elements.

Rare earth magnets are significantly stronger than regular magnets, with a power output that is 2-10 times greater. The magnetic field of a rare earth magnet is also more stable than the magnetic field of a regular magnet. Regular magnets can lose their magnetism if they are heated or exposed to strong electrical fields. Rare earth magnets are not as easily demagnetized.

If you need a strong magnet, then a rare earth magnet is the best choice. If you are looking for a magnet that is less likely to lose its magnetism, then a rare earth magnet is also the best choice. If you are looking for a cheaper option, then a regular magnet might be the right choice for you.
 

Choosing the Right Magnet for Your Application

When it comes to choosing the right magnet for your application, there are a few key factors you need to consider.

  • First, confirm the applications of the magnet. Do you need the magnet for the DC motor? or medical machines?

  • Second, consider the size of the magnet you need. And how strong of a magnet do you need?

  • Thirdly, do you have any special requirements? Such as working temperature? Service life?


Make sure to think about the cost of the magnet before making your purchase. Consider all of the factors involved before making a decision. This will help you choose the right magnet for your needs. If you have questions, please reach out to one of our experts. They would be happy to help you determine the best solution for your application.

 

 

 

 

 

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