Neodymium magnets, a category of rare earth magnets, are the strongest type of permanent magnet known to earth. With the potential to store a high mount of magnetic energies and energy density, these magnets have become the first rare-earth application to become commercialized in the manufacturing and production industries. While General Motors initially commercialized the neodymium magnet in 1982 as an alternative to other permanent magnets that were considered high in cost, it later became the solutions to companies in a number of different industries with new and cost conserving manufacturing techniques. With new techniques, deterioration disadvantages were eliminated with nickel plating became the standard in neodymium production.
Manufacturers of neodymium magnets can use one of two processes: powder metallurgy or solidification. The classic technique took liquid-phased sauntering and magnetic powder to create dense blocks that were eventually cut down, shape, treated and magnetized. Newer and more rapid techniques of production involve melt spinning into a thin ribbon that is then pulverized into tiny particles and mixed with a polymer compound. Once this mixture is created, it is injected, hardened and molded into this bonded form of magnet. While the classic technique is what many manufacturers still utilize to this day due to the decreased costs associated with the process, others prefer the quickness of the bonded technique.
Rare earth magnets create a number of hazards that are not common in other magnetic compounds. Because of their sheer strength, body parts can be pinched and bones broken if coming into contact with two magnets propelling towards one another. They are also very attracted to one another, which means if they are not maintained and tended to properly they can shatter or chip materials when striking one another. When swallowed, these magnets have the potential to fold the digestive tract causing serious injury or death.
These rare-earth magnets have replaced their predecessor Alnico in many different modern technology applications due to their strength and physical characteristics. With increased strength, a smaller amount of the magnetic application must be used making equipment lighter in weight and smaller, ultimately reducing the cost of production of a number of different electrical items in this modern day and age.
There are a number of different applications that use neodymium magnets during the manufacturing process. While computer hard disks use these magnets for head actuators and magnetic resonance imagining, motors in a number of different electronic items also use the rare-earth magnets. For cars, appliances, computers, compressor motors and various other industrial items, the neodymium magnet has become an important and invaluable asset. Hybrid and electric vehicles have also benefited from this advanced technology. With the brilliant and beneficial qualities, a number of modern technologies have been created and invented thanks to these magnets.
