Wednesday, April 27, 2011

Unlock The Power Of Neodymium Rare Earth Magnets

Neodymium rare earth magnets have a lot of power.  In fact, they are the strongest of all the magnets currently available.  Created from iron and boron, these magnets were originally discovered by the General Motors company.  Since that time, the magnets have been used in many applications ranging from kid’s toys to motor vehicles.


Even the health care industry is using these magnets.  Think about “magnet therapy.”  Although it generates controversy in the scientific community, the therapy has helped thousands of people alleviate their pain.  They have also been effective in fighting depression.


Yet, even with all these applications, neodymium rare earth magnets do have a couple of problems.  One of them involves corrosion.  To prevent this problem, they are usually coated with some type of plating.  Fortunately, the plating does not interfere with the magnet’s power.  Even if the magnet itself breaks, it still maintains is attraction.  Indeed, demagnetizing these magnets is nearly impossible.









Another disadvantage can be seen in the dangers of the magnets.  If you are using them at home, make sure to keep them out of your child's reach.  Also know that neodymium rare earth magnets can actually smash through substances if it is placed too closely.   In terms of handling, you must be very careful.  If you do not wear protection while holding these magnets, you could break the bones in your hand.   The magnets have also been known to erase credit card data.   So, you cannot play around with neodymium rare earth magnets, as these are not like the variety you hang on your refrigerator door.


However, as long as you handle them properly, do not be scared of these magnets.  If you are an inventor or even a manufacturer, you need to learn how to harness the power of these magnets.  To buy them, simply visit an online store.  Know that when you purchase them, you will be treated to many different varieties.  In terms of shapes, there are over 12 choices ranging from arcs to stars.   For coating, you can get them in nickel (like mentioned earlier) or copper.  There is also the option of getting custom made neodymium rare earth magnets.


In conclusion, neodymium rare earth magnets are one of Mother Nature’s best gifts.  While they are not necessarily rare in supply, their power certainly is.   This is why the magnets have to be manipulated to allow for safer applications.  Obviously you cannot put a raw neodymium magnet into a child’s toy.  But if it is broken down and encased, it becomes as safe as a refrigerator magnet.  You just have to know how to handle them before they get to that form.  And you must maintain these precautions even if the magnet seems small.   Never put two magnets together without proper industrial equipment, as this is how many accidents happen.  And even if you are handling one, still be cautious.  If you are unsure of the product’s safety, make sure you check any instruction manuals issued by the manufacturer.  They will have specific handling guidelines based on the size and weight of your magnets.