subject: Rare Earth Magnets ? An Introduction To Neodymium Magnets [print this page] Be aware that the Periodic Table of Elements has a section referred to as the Lanthanide section. Essentially, such a section lists down all rare earth elements which are richly available in the Earth's crust. Neodymium is an example of an earth element that is quite rare. Also, its strength is a lot greater compared to that of alnico or ferrite. Take note that it is highly affordable and is the strongest of its type as it is a standard feature in the creation of rare earth magnets.
Basically, neodymium magnets have a 1.4 Tesla magnetic field and is referred to as a permanent magnet. Do note that this does not mean that the magnet keeps its magnetic field forever. However, it does retain its magnetic field for a few decades. Be aware that a neodymium magnet is a boron as well as neodymium and iron alloy. It is also considered as one of the world's strongest magnet. Unfortunately, it is also brittle and very much susceptible to corrosion. It is for this reason that protective coating is placed on it in order to prevent the magnet from being damaged.
Neodymium magnets are produced as a powdered sintered magnet in large amounts compared to the magnet bonded process. This is due to the fact that sintered magnet possesses a higher magnetic field strength or remanence. Also, neodymium magnets do not lose its strong magnetism. The only instance it loses its magnet strength is when it achieves a 310-400 degree Celsius temperature. Take note that this is considered as the Curie temp (appropriately named after Pierre Curie - the husband of Marie Curie). The inclusion of dysprosium as well as terbium in order to produce an alloy is to increase the Curie temp to as much as 800 degrees C.
Traditionally, rare earth magnets have industrial applications. This includes the manufacture of spindle, stepper as well as synchronous motors. It also assists in the manufacture of desktop hard disk drives head actuators. Rare earth magnets also play a significant role in MRI or magnetic resonance imaging.
It is important to note that utilizing rare earth magnets poses risks and hazards. Believe it or not, it is very much possible to acquire injuries if magnets are inappropriately handled. There has been an instance wherein two magnets which measure 5 cm each caused lethal body part injury. For instance, fingernails have been visibly detached whenever magnets were improperly handled. Such magnets also have the capacity to damage one's digestive tract by causing injury or death once swallowed. Also, when magnets are closely placed together, they could shatter from the strength of their impact against each other thereby causing shrapnel to fire off.
For the large part, rare earth magnets are still safe. Do make sure they are properly and sensibly used. Due to the strength of these magnets magnetic field, they have similarly become a favorite choice for making jewelry. Their remanence also removes the need for them to have clasps, wire or thread to hold the pieces together, Neodymium magnets are currently used - and frequently too - as hematite and magnetite in making necklaces, bracelets or anklets.
