What are Neodymium Magnets & Are They Really the Strongest?

Neodymium is a silvery-white metal that tarnishes rapidly in air. So how is it the strongest magnet in the world? Alone it’s not, but when it’s in an alloy with iron and boron it becomes 10 times stronger than all other ferrite, ceramic or alnico magnets of equal size. This discovery in 1983 is what led to the miniaturization of many electronic devices such as mobile phones, microphones, loudspeakers and electronic musical instruments.

How Strong are Neodymium Magnets?

Neodymium magnets are the most powerful commercially produced industrial magnet on the market. A single Neo magnet, weighing only a few grams can hold up to a thousand times its own weight. But not all Neodymium magnets are created equal.

Neodymium Magnet Grades & Strengths

Neo magnets come in a wide variety of grades, often referred to as its “N rating.” The “N” stands for neodymium, and it’s followed by a number and sometimes another letter or two. Most of our neo magnets are N35.

The number following the “N” is a measurement of strength. It represents the maximum energy product of the magnet in Mega Gauss Oersteds. A higher number indicates a stronger magnet, however higher grades are not always the best option for maximum performance. If you have the space, you may be better off stacking two N35 magnets instead of using a single N42.

The letter that sometimes follows the N rating is a temperature rating. Despite their mega strength, Neodymium magnets are considered to have a low maximum temperature resistance. For your everyday projects and most applications this is not an issue as the maximum operating temperature of a standard Neo magnet before it begins to lose its magnetic properties permanently is 80° C or 176°F. There are, however, special grades available that can withstand significantly higher temps, up to 230°C or 446°F.

All this make them an extremely versatile and useful magnet for a lot of different applications.

Common Applications for Neodymium Magnets

A magnet of that magnitude has lots of uses big and small. You’ll find them in everything from wind turbine generators and heavy machinery to roller coasters and MRI machines. Some of the most common uses for Neo magnets include:

• Crafts and model-making
• Electric motors
• Computer hard drives
• Cabinet door latches
• Retail signs and POP displays
• High-end product packaging, luggage, purses and jewelry clasps
• Seals on refrigerators and freezer doors
• Stereos, earphones, cell phones, computers, laptops and televisions speakers

Where to Buy Neodymium Magnets

You can purchase neodymium magnets by visiting our online store today. We carry many shapes and sizes such as disks, blocks and disks or blocks with adhesive. If you’re still not sure if the neodymium magnet is the right choice for your product, we can help. We have years of experience and expertise in helping you decide which magnetic product is right for you. Get started by calling us at 800-330-1432 or send us a message.