For most metal recycling businesses, finding the right magnet can be the difference between a successful business and a failed one. It is because magnets are crucial for picking up metal parts and dumping them in a recycler. Therefore, not only does the right magnet make such work easy, but it also helps to prevent accidents. However, you should understand that magnetic forces, although durable, are not permanent. As such, you should understand the critical factors affecting magnetic force.
Working Temperatures
One factor that affects magnetic force is temperature. Regardless of the strength, all magnets are sensitive to working temperatures. However, the sensitivity varies depending on the grade of a magnet. For instance, neodymium — the strongest rare earth magnet — can withstand temperatures of up to 230 degrees Celsius. Samarium-cobalt magnets, on the other hand, can function in temperatures of up to 350 degrees Celsius. If working temperatures exceed these values, the magnets begin to lose their magnetic force and do not function optimally when picking up scrap metals. Therefore, ensure that the industrial magnet you buy can handle the maximum working temperatures in your yard.
Working Humidity
Oxidation is a real problem for industrial magnets, mainly if your yard is located in a highly humid region. The reason is that most magnets, especially those that contain iron, start showing signs of rusting if exposed to high levels of humidity. Therefore, it is advisable to select industrial magnets that have a protective coating. Although the type of coating you choose is a matter of preference, nickel coating is the best, and that explains its popularity in industrial magnets. If you want a magnet that is not affected by oxidation issues, buy one that is coated with two nickel layers sandwiching a copper layer. The triple coating ensures the magnet remains unaffected by humidity for a very long time compared to magnets that have a single nickel coat.
Design of Magnetic Circuit
When buying an industrial magnet, it is vital to ask a vendor the design of the unit's magnetic circuit. The reason is that magnetic force varies according to the magnetisation direction. For instance, the magnetic force of a cylindrical magnet is stronger with an axial magnetisation configuration compared to a diametric one. The information is crucial, especially when planning to recharge a magnet. If you select a magnetisation technique that doesn't match a particular design, then the magnet will lose strength fast.
Contact a supplier of rare-earth neodymium magnets for more information.