subject: The Uses of Neodymium Magnets [print this page] The Uses of Neodymium Magnets The Uses of Neodymium Magnets
Neodymium magnets are the strongest category of permanent magnets on earth. They are rare-earth magnets that are able to store a large amount of magnetic energies. They were the first rare-earth magnets to be used in applications that have become commercialized in the industries of manufacturing and production. The neodymium magnet was originally commercialized by General Motors in 1982 to be an alternative to other types of permanent magnets because of their lower cost, but later, it was a financial solution for other companies in various industries. Eventually, new techniques eliminated disadvantages that led to machinery damage as nickel plating became standard for producing neodymium.
Neodymium magnets are made either by powder metallurgy or by solidification. Powder metallurgy requires liquid-phased sauntering combined with magnetic powder to form blocks that are made into the appropriate shape and then magnetized. The more recent, faster production techniques require melted neodymium to be spun into a thin ribbon which is then broken down into small particles. A polymer compound is then added to the mixture. At this point, the mixture is then hardened and molded into the finished product. Today, many neodymium magnet manufacturers use the classic pwder metallurgy process because of the lower cost, but some chose the solidification method because it is much faster.
There are unseen dangers that come with rare earth magnets. These hazards are not found in other kinds of magnets because they are considerably weaker. Neodymium magnets, for example, can severly pinch body parts or break bones if they get between two magnets that are shooting toward each other. This also means that if the magnets are allowed to meet too quickly, they may shatter or chip. They require particular care and attention. These magnets, especially small ones, should be kept away from pets or small children who might swallow them, because they sometimes cause the digestive tract to fold. This can lead to internal injury or death.
Because of their physical and molecular characteristics, these rare-earth magnets replaced the previously used Alnico in several contemporary technological applications. Since the magnets are so strong, less of them need to be used in manufacturing products. This ultimately leads to reduction in product costs and lighter, smaller products which are generally more convenient for the consumers of modern electronic technology.
In this day and age, quite a few different products require neodymium magnets. A computer's hard disk has magnets in it for head actuators and for magnetic resonance imagining. Also, the motors of some electronics contain rare-earth magnets. The neodymium magnet has become invaluable for computers, motors, appliances, and even cars. Hybrid and fully electronic vehicles also are improved by rare-earth magnets. A lot of the advancements in technology are due to the use of these magnets.
