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FAISAL MAGNETS Industrial • Neodymium • Pakistan
Procurement & Engineering Reference

Industrial Permanent Magnet Buying Guide

A systematic methodology for specifying magnetic materials, geometric shapes, holding forces, and operating temperature ratings.

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1. Magnetic Material Selection

Choosing the correct magnetic alloy is the foundation of any application. The four primary commercial magnet types each offer specific advantages:

Neodymium (NdFeB)

The strongest permanent magnet material. Best when maximum pull force is needed in minimum volume. Standard rating up to 80°C.

Ceramic Ferrite

Economical, rustproof, and heat-resistant up to 250°C. Best for large separators, outdoor fixtures, and acoustic drivers.

Alnico (Al-Ni-Co)

Exceptional thermal stability up to 500°C and classic horseshoe dipole geometry. Widely used in classroom physics.

Samarium Cobalt (SmCo)

Rare-earth strength combined with temperature resistance up to 300°C and high corrosion resistance. Used in aerospace.

2. Understanding Pull Force vs Shear Force

Many users assume a magnet rated for "10 kg pull" can hold a 10 kg object on a vertical wall. In reality:

  • Direct Pull (Vertical Separation): The magnet is pulled straight away from the steel surface at a 90° angle. Published pull force ratings reflect this ideal vertical condition against thick, smooth steel.
  • Shear Force (Sliding Resistance): When a magnet is mounted on a vertical steel wall and an object hangs from it, friction prevents sliding. The sliding holding power is typically only 20% to 30% of the direct pull force. To hang a 3 kg sign on a vertical wall, specify a magnet rated for at least 10 kg to 15 kg direct pull.

3. The Air Gap Factor

Any non-ferrous material between the magnet and the steel object creates an "air gap." This includes paint, powder coating, rust, leather, and wood veneer. Because magnetic field strength drops exponentially over distance, an air gap of just 1mm can cut holding power by more than half. Always design for the maximum possible gap.

4. Checklist Before Ordering

Have these 5 parameters ready when contacting Faisal Magnets:
  1. Exact shape required (Disc, Cylinder, Block, Ring, Pot, Hook, Plate)
  2. Dimensions in millimeters (Diameter x Thickness or Length x Width x Thickness)
  3. Estimated weight you are holding, lifting, or separating
  4. Working environment (temperature, indoor/outdoor, chemicals)
  5. Quantity needed for sample testing or production batch