Magnetic Sheeting: Why Thinner Is Sometimes Better

When it comes to magnets, thicker generally means stronger, but that doesn’t always mean better. When it comes to magnetic sheeting, there are several advantages to using a thinner magnet.

What is Magnetic Sheeting?

Magnetic sheeting or a sheet magnet is a thin layer of plastic that has been embedded with millions of magnetized steel particles to make it act like a magnet. It is flexibility with usually one magnetic side. The other is often printable or has an adhesive.

Sheet Magnetic thickness is measured in “mils” which is a magnet industry term that stands for a thousandth of an inch. The higher the mil the thicker and stronger the magnet.

Our magnetic sheeting with indoor adhesive is available in the following thicknesses:

• 15 mil (.015″) – Very flexible, recommended for cost savings, photo magnets and light weight paper objects. Has about 40lbs of pull per square foot.
• 30 mil (.030″) – Less flexible, recommended for high-quality magnetics and medium weight paper objects. Has about 85lbs of pull per square foot.
• 60 mil (.060″) – Rigid, recommended when strength is needed. Has about 144lbs. of pull per square foot. mil is not quite strong enough.

We also have a 30 mil flexible sheet magnet with a matte white vinyl printable surface.

Benefits of Thinner Sheet Magnets

Thinner magnetic sheeting is often considered better for the following reasons; however, the optimal thickness really depends on the specific needs of the application.

Easy To Use

While all sheet magnets can be cut, thinner sheets are easier to cut, allowing for more intricate shapes and designs. They are also more flexible, allowing them to bend and can adhere well to uneven and curved surfaces.

Printer Friendly

The lighter weight and more flexible sheet magnets are easier to print on. They feed through wide-format printers with less wear and tear on the machines and can be printed on directly using digital, flexo, offset and screen printing techniques and easily run through our rotary converting equipment.

Lightweight

The thinner sheet magnets are very lightweight, so they don’t add any unnecessary weight to the end product. This makes them ideal for signage, promotional items, mailings, labels and vehicle signage.

Cost-Effective

Thinner sheet magnets generally cost less to produce and purchase than thicker ones. And because they weigh less, they are usually cheaper to ship or mail as well.

How to Choose the Right Mil Magnetic Sheet for Your Project

While thinner sheets have a lot of benefits thanks to their flexibility and light weight, they are not always the right choice for every project. Thicker options may be necessary depending on weight or needed holding power. If you are ever in doubt, just give us a call at 763-540-9497 or send us a message online. We’d be more than happy to help you determine what size magnet is needed for your project.