Neodymium magnets, also known as NdFeB magnets, are a powerful and versatile class of permanent magnets. They have become an essential component in a myriad of industries, from consumer electronics to renewable energy. In this article, we’ll explore the different Neodymium magnet grades, their unique properties, and how to choose the right grade for your application. We’ll also discuss the impact of temperature on their performance, ensuring you have the knowledge to make informed decisions about your magnetic needs.
The Basics of Neodymium Magnet Grades
All Neodymium magnet grades begin with the letter ‘N’, representing ‘Neo’ or Neodymium. The two-digit number that follows signifies the maximum energy product, measured in Mega-Gauss Oersteds (MGOe). In simpler terms, the higher the number, the stronger the magnet’s magnetic field.
The commonly available grades range from N30 to N52, as lower grades are generally no longer produced. When selecting a Neodymium magnet, it’s important to note that higher-grade magnets, such as N52, can be significantly more expensive than their N42 counterparts, with only a marginal increase in performance. In many cases, using two N42 magnets may be more cost-effective than using a single, higher-grade magnet.
Temperature Ratings and Intrinsic Coercivity
In addition to the maximum energy product, Neodymium magnet grades also come with one or two suffix letters, such as M, H, SH, UH, EH, or AH. These letters indicate the magnet’s intrinsic coercive force (Hci), a measure of the magnet’s resistance to demagnetization at elevated temperatures. The higher the Hci value, the better the magnet will withstand higher temperatures before experiencing permanent losses in output.
| Type | Suffix Meaning | Grades | Maxinum Working Temperature |
|---|---|---|---|
| N | (No suffix) | N27, N30, N33, N35, N38, N40, N42, N45, N48, N50, N52, N54 | 80 deg C/175 deg F |
| NM | M: Medium Grade | N30M, N33M, N35M, N38M, N40M, N42M, N45M, N48M, N50M, N52M | 100 deg C/212 deg F |
| NH | H: High Grade | N30H, N33H, N35H, N38H, N40H, N42H, N45H, N48H, N50H | 120 deg C/248 deg F |
| NSH | SH: Super High Grade | N30SH, N33SH, N35SH, N38SH, N40SH, N42SH, N45SH, N48SH | 150 deg C/302 deg F |
| NUH | UH: Ultra High Grade | N28UH, N30UH, N33UH, N35UH, N38UH, N40UH, N42UH | 180 deg C/356 deg F |
| NEH | EH: Extreme High Grade | N28EH, N30EH, N33EH, N35EH, N38EH | 200 deg C/392 deg F |
| NAH | AH: Astronomical High Grade | N33AH | 230 deg C/446 deg F |
| Grade | Residual Flux Density (Br) |
Coercive Force (Hc) |
Intrinsic Coercive Force (Hci) | Max.Energy Product (BH)max |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| N35 | 11.7-12.1 KGs | >11.0 KOe | >12 KOe | 33-35 MGOe |
| N38 | 12.2-12.6 KGs | >11.0 KOe | >12 KOe | 36-38 MGOe |
| N40 | 12.6-12.9 KGs | >11.0 KOe | >12 KOe | 38-40 MGOe |
| N42 | 13.0-13.2 KGs | >11.0 KOe | >12 KOe | 40-42 MGOe |
| N45 | 13.3-13.7 KGs | >11.0 KOe | >12 KOe | 43-45 MGOe |
| N48 | 13.8-14.2 KGs | >11.0 KOe | >12 KOe | 45-48 MGOe |
| N50 | 14.1-14.5 KGs | >11.0 KOe | >11 KOe | 48-50 MGOe |
| N52 | 14.5-14.8 KGs | >11.2 KOe | >11 KOe | 49.5-52 MGOe |
| N35M | 11.7-12.1 KGs | >11.4 KOe | >14 KOe | 33-35 MGOe |
| N38M | 12.2-12.6 KGs | >11.4 KOe | >14 KOe | 36-38 MGOe |
| N40M | 12.6-12.9 KGs | >11.4 KOe | >14 KOe | 38-40 MGOe |
| N42M | 13.0-13.3 KGs | >11.4 KOe | >14 KOe | 40-42 MGOe |
| N45M | 13.3-13.7 KGs | >11.4 KOe | >14 KOe | 42-45 MGOe |
| N48M | 13.6-14.2 KGs | >11.4 KOe | >14 KOe | 45-48 MGOe |
| N50M | 14.1-14.5 KGs | >11.4 KOe | >14 KOe | 48-50 MGOe |
| N52M | 14.3-14.8 KGs | >12.5 KOe | >13 KOe | 49-52 MGOe |
| N33H | 11.4-11.7 KGs | >10.3 KOe | >17 KOe | 31-33 MGOe |
| N35H | 11.7-12.1 KGs | >10.8 KOe | >17 KOe | 33-35 MGOe |
| N38H | 12.2-12.6 KGs | >11.4 KOe | >17 KOe | 36-38 MGOe |
| N40H | 12.6-12.9 KGs | >11.4 KOe | >17 KOe | 38-40 MGOe |
| N42H | 13.0-13.3 KGs | >11.4 KOe | >17 KOe | 40-42 MGOe |
| N45H | 13.3-13.7 KGs | >11.4 KOe | >17 KOe | 42-45 MGOe |
| N48H | 13.6-14.2 KGs | >11.4 KOe | >16 KOe | 45-48 MGOe |
| N35SH | 11.7-12.1 KGs | >10.8 KOe | >20 KOe | 33-35 MGOe |
| N38SH | 12.2-12.6 KGs | >11.4 KOe | >20 KOe | 36-38 MGOe |
| N40SH | 12.6-12.9 KGs | >11.4 KOe | >20 KOe | 38-40 MGOe |
| N42SH | 13.0-13.3 KGs | >11.4 KOe | >20 KOe | 40-42 MGOe |
| N45SH | 13.3-13.7 KGs | >11.4 KOe | >19 KOe | 43-45 MGOe |
| N30UH | 10.8-11.2 KGs | >10.1 KOe | >25 KOe | 28-30 MGOe |
| N33UH | 11.4-11.7 KGs | >10.3 KOe | >25 KOe | 31-33 MGOe |
| N35UH | 11.7-12.1 KGs | >10.8 KOe | >25 KOe | 33-35 MGOe |
| N38UH | 12.2-12.6 KGs | >11.4 KOe | >25 KOe | 36-38 MGOe |
| N40UH | 12.6-12.9 KGs | >11.4 KOe | >25 KOe | 38-40 MGOe |
| N30EH | 10.8-11.2 KGs | >10.1 KOe | >30 KOe | 28-30 MGOe |
| N33EH | 11.4-11.7 KGs | >10.3 KOe | >30 KOe | 31-33 MGOe |
| N35EH | 11.7-12.1 KGs | >10.8 KOe | >30 KOe | 33-35 MGOe |
| N38EH | 12.2-12.6 KGs | >10.8 KOe | >30 KOe | 36-38 MGOe |
| N30AH | 10.8-11.2 KGs | >10.1 KOe | >34 KOe | 28-30 MGOe |
| N33AH | 11.4-11.7 KGs | >10.2 KOe | >34 KOe | 31-33 MGOe |
| N35AH | 11.7-12.1 KGs | >11.0 KOe | >34 KOe | 33-35 MGOe |
It’s essential to remember that the actual performance of a magnet at elevated temperatures depends on factors such as size, shape, and the overall magnetic circuit. Therefore, it’s crucial to review your application’s specific requirements and consult an expert when selecting the right magnet grade.
Choosing the Right Neodymium Magnet Grade
Selecting the ideal Neodymium magnet grade for your application requires a careful analysis of several factors, including:
- Required magnetic strength
- Available space for the magnet
- Maximum operating temperature
- Cost considerations
To ensure optimal performance, it’s crucial to assess your application’s needs and consult with experts in the field. At EPI Magnets, our team of knowledgeable professionals is here to help you make the right choice for your magnetic solutions.
Conclusion
Neodymium magnet grades offer a diverse array of possibilities for various applications across countless industries. By understanding the different magnet grades, their energy density, intrinsic coercive force, and temperature resistance capabilities, you can make informed decisions about the best magnet for your specific needs. At EPI Magnets, our goal is to provide you with the knowledge and guidance to select the perfect Neodymium magnet grade for your application. Contact us today to explore the power and versatility of Neodymium magnets.