Common Types of Magnet Coatings

Plating magnets is an important process that protects the magnet from corrosion. Neodymium magnets, in particular, oxidize quickly without a protective layer. The most common type of magnet plating is nickel, but it’s not the only one and it’s not always the best option.

Different Materials Used to Plate Magnets

Depending on your specific application there are many other options for magnet coatings. Standard coating vary by application including gold plating for medical applications, rubber coated zinc for marine applications and chrome for high-pressure and high-friction applications. Here’s a closer look at few common types of magnet coatings.

Nickel Plated Magnets

Nickel is the most common coating used on neodymium and ceramic magnets. It is typically applied as a triple layer coating that consists of two layers of nickel with a copper layer in between (Ni-Cu-Ni). It is an easy, cost-effective option that works well for many indoor and outdoor applications if protected from rain and humidity.

Zinc Plated Magnets

Zinc can be used as a one-layer standalone platting. It is self-sacrificing, creating a durable outer layer of protection for the magnet when it oxidizes and the outer most layer turns white.

Gold Plated Magnets

Gold is FDA-approved as a medical coating for in-body use. The magnets usually have an undercoating of Ni-Cu-Ni.

Silver Plated Magnets

Silver is highly conductive and most commonly used as a coating for electrical components.

Plastic & Rubber Coated Magnets

Plastic and rubber coated magnets are waterproof, highly corrosion resistant and more durable than uncoated magnets. They also provide some impact resistance and protection against scratching the surface of whatever they are attached to. They can be used outdoors, underwater and in other marine applications. The plastic and rubber coating also offers a better bond strength for magnets that need to be glued.

Epoxy Coated Magnets

Epoxy coated magnets have high corrosion and chemical resistance, but not the shock resistance of plastic or rubber. They are often used in motors and by the automotive industry and also great for outdoor applications. Raw Epoxy is often used for gluing applications.

Chrome Plated Magnets

Chrome is most commonly used as a decorative coating, but is also used for high-pressure and high-friction applications. It is corrosion resistance and offers a beautiful shine.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Magnetic Coating

Magnetic coatings can make a magnet better in many ways. They can protect the magnet from corrosion and damage or make the magnet stronger, but selecting the proper coating for your magnet depends greatly on your specific application. Each coating has its own benefits and drawbacks that, along with these other factors, should be considered when choosing a magnetic coating.

Magnet’s Operating Environment

You should consider where the magnets will be used. If it’s indoors or outdoors, hot or humid, are there any chemicals it might be exposed to or ways it could get damaged.

Thickness of The Magnet’s Coating

The coating or plating can impact a magnet’s performance. Any layer or distance between the magnet and the item it is attached to can reduce the strength of the magnet. A coating that is too thick can interfere with the function of the magnet. A coating too thin may not adequately protect the magnet.

Your Budget

Some coating materials are more expensive than others and your budget could certainly be affected. When considering the cost of the coating, keep in mind the level of protection it offers and whether it will last longer than other, cheaper options.

Specific Application Requirements

Perhaps most importantly, you should consider any special needs of the specific application. If the magnet needs to be electrically insulated, waterproof, biocompatible or look good it will impact the coating or plating you choose for your magnet.

Get the Right Plated Magnet with US Magnetix

By choosing the right coating for your magnet, you can make it stronger and more useful. Our team of magnet experts can help you select the right magnet for your application. We offer many customizable size and shape options to choose from for the perfect fit. Shop our magnets online now or contact us if you’re not exactly sure what magnet to choose. We’re more than happy to help you determine the perfect magnet for you.