How to Separate Stuck Together Magnets
Magnets can be incredibly strong, especially neodymium magnets. And while their strength is fascinating, it can be incredibly frustrating when they get stuck to each other or to another surface. So how do you get them unstuck? Here are a few tips for safely separating strong magnets.
Separating Strong Magnets
The easiest way to separate stuck together magnets will depend on the size and strength of the magnets. But no matter what method you use, the same basic principles apply.
- You need to create an air gap between the two surfaces
- It is 5x easier to slide a magnet apart than it is to pull it
You should also be mindful of your own safety. Neodymium magnets are very brittle and can break or splinter under extreme force and small bits can go flying. Make sure you are wearing protective eye gear to prevent injury to your eyes. You also need to keep your hands and fingers clear. Small magnets can cause painful and severe pinches, but larger neodymium magnets could crush your fingers.
Slide to Separate
Magnets are measured by pull strength and it is five times easier to move them if they are slid apart instead of pulled. This method works best for smaller magnets, and many can be separated by hand by simply sliding one from the other using a sideways motion.
Create Leverage with an Edge
If you can’t slide the magnets apart with your hands alone, try using the edge of surface to increase leverage. This will also reduce the risk of them snapping back together on your fingers.
Try placing the connected magnets on a flat surface like a table or desk with one overhanging the edge while you slide it vertically downwards. Once separated, be sure to move the free magnet far enough away so they don’t reconnect.
Wedge Them Apart
Some magnets, especially large ones, prove very difficult and sometimes dangerous to separate. In these extreme cases, a non-magnetic wedge may be needed to create the air gap.
Try inserting a non-magnetic wedge made from a piece of wood, plastic or thick cardboard, and carefully slide the wedge between the two magnets at an angle. Gradually increase pressure as you gently pry them apart. For very strong magnets, it often takes two people to ensure the magnets don’t jump back together.
Buying & Storing Strong Magnets
US Magnetix offers a wide range of strong magnets, including ceramic and neodymium. When you purchase magnets from us, they will arrive with a plastic or heavy cardboard spacer preventing them from sticking together. We recommend you save these spacers for future storage. Proper care and storage will help your magnets stay stronger for longer and prevent them from becoming stuck together. If you have any other questions about separating or storing magnets or need help deciding what magnets to buy, give us a call at 763-540-9497 or send us a message.
