When it comes to understanding magnets, the concept of pull force is often a sticking point. How much weight can a magnet support? What factors influence a magnet’s pull force? Here at EPI Magnets, we are committed to helping you understand these complexities.
Understanding Pull Force
When it comes to understanding magnets, the concept of pull force is often a sticking point. How much weight can a magnet support? What factors influence a magnet’s pull force? Here at EPI Magnets, we are committed to helping you understand these complexities.
Real-World Applications and Variables
You might be wondering, “Does the listed pull force on your website hold up in real-world applications?” Well, in most cases, yes, but remember, practical scenarios might be different. For instance, if you attach a D88 disc magnet to a steel ceiling and hang weights from it, it should support up to approximately 14 lbs, which aligns with our Pull Force.
However, not all applications involve the magnet being directly pulled from the surface. Consider the classic refrigerator magnet. Here, the weight it can hold depends not just on the pull force, but also on the friction between the magnet and the surface, known as shear force.
What is the weight capacity of a magnet when it’s adhered to my fridge door? In the context of a magnet clinging to a steel surface, there’s no sidelong pulling force at play. Instead, the magnetic attraction directs the magnet straight to the steel panel. Yet, as gravity endeavors to yank the magnet downwards, the friction generated between the magnet and the door keeps it from sliding off.
Indeed, this frictional force is the solitary force that stops the magnet from gliding down your refrigerator’s facade.
So, why aren’t we providing specific values for this scenario? It’s due to the fact that the coefficient of friction — a measure that affects this interaction greatly — is subject to significant fluctuation, influenced by the unique characteristics of the two materials in contact and any potential lubrication.
This variable is hard to quantify due to the varying friction coefficients based on different surface materials.
The Importance of Distance
One crucial factor affecting pull force is the gap between the magnet and the material it’s sticking to. Even a thin layer of paint or a sheet of paper can drastically reduce the pull force. For example, a D82 magnet with 6.44 lb pull force can see a reduction to 3 lb force with just 0.03″ gap.
Discovering the Right Magnet: Prototype, Test, Repeat!
While we aim to provide as much data as possible to guide you, there’s no substitute for first-hand experience. We recommend prototyping with different magnet sizes in your specific applications. EPI Magnets is delighted to assist you with this process.
Demystifying the world of magnets, understanding pull force, and exploring its potential requires curiosity, experimentation, and sometimes, a bit of trial and error. But don’t worry, with EPI Magnets by your side, you are never alone in your magnetic journey. Explore our product range today, and let’s harness the power of magnetism together!