Grades Of Neodymium Magnets

Confused by what all the different letters and number in a grade’s name mean? Here, we will explain the difference in grades of neodymium magnets.

For more information, please visit strong Loaf Neodymium Magnet.

It all starts with the letter ‘N’, all the names of neodymium magnets begin with ‘N’ for neodymium. The number that follows is a little more technical as this represents the maximum energy product of the magnet in ‘Mega-Gauss Oersteds’ (MGOe). This is the primary indicator of a magnets ‘strength’. Simply, the higher the maximum energy product value, the greater the magnetic field the magnet will generate in a particular application.

The grades generally available to buy, range from N30 to N52 as lower grades are generally no longer manufactured.

At first4magnets.com, we do not compromise on quality and the majority of our magnets are grade N42 or above, making them 20% more magnetic than many cheaper N35 grade neodymium magnets. N42 grade offers a high performance at an economical price. Grades above N42 tend to be more expensive and the rise in price can be disproportionate to the increase in performance. An example is N52 grade which is 20% more powerful than N42 grade and yet can be twice the price.

Higher grades should be used where the highest performance is needed and the available space for the magnet is limited and cannot be increased. Otherwise it would be more beneficial to use two N42 magnets instead of one N52 magnet.

Are you interested in learning more about Formworks Button Magnet? Contact us today to secure an expert consultation!

At times, you may also see one or two letters tagged onto the end of a grade. These letters determine the temperature rating and represent the maximum operating temperature the magnet can withstand before it begins to lose its magnetism permanently. These ratings should always be treated as a guide value as other factors such as size and shape also have an impact on the performance of a magnet at high temperatures. For more information, go to the ‘How does temperature affect neodymium magnets’ page.

So why would someone need such a powerful magnet? Well, all my life, I've been fascinated with them. I'm still amazed that such a relatively small chunk of metal can have so much power. This is a palm-sized rectangular block with a silver finish.. not shiny and artistic, but not an eyesore either.

I had wondered how this would be shipped without causing havoc in UPS or FedEx shipping facilities, but when the box arrived, I placed a steel ruler next to the box and their was no attraction at all. Upon opening the box, I discovered why. The magnet was encased in a dense block of foam which provided some insulation. I plan to keep this stored in the a same box and foam. As others have mentioned, this is not a toy. Fingers can be seriously damaged or broken if two of these babies are allowed to attract, which they will do violently. Others have mentioned that neodymium magnets can break or shatter. I've been very careful so haven't had that problem.

The one issue with this magnet is that it arrived with a tiny nick in one edge. I doubt it was dropped (would likely have broken?), so was likely a little bubble or flaw that occurred during manufacture. Since neodymium magnets can corrode, I'll still place a little clear polish over the spot to protect it, in case its protective finish didn't fully cover this little spot. No problem. It doesn't impact the functionality of the magnet, so still 5 stars.

So how strong is this baby? Advertised to have 600lb pull. While I wish I could demonstrate its strength by lifting an anvil, I just gave my last one away :). So instead, tried it on a metal wheelbarrow. The little block is too slippery to hold in bare hands, so I wrapped it in a piece of vinyl cloth to get a good grip on it. See pic... lifted with no difficulty at all! Next I held it underneath my wooden desktop, about 3/4" thickness. Metal items were attracted to that spot on top of the desk, through the wood. Fun!! Be careful, though, not to get it near computers, credit cards, etc.

So what did I get this magnet for? I live near a fairly large community lake. For years I've been wanting to go "fishing" with a magnet to see what folks have dropped into the water. It will probably be junk but I'm looking forward to finding out. (Will have to rig a pouch with rope to keep from losing it too.). And I have the hard drive from an old computer that I recycled. I held onto it, not sure how to erase the info before recycling. This magnet will do it!

Whether for fun, practical purposes or science projects, this magnet is awesome!

Want more information on Precast Concrete Magnet Box? Feel free to contact us.