Unleashing N55 Neodymium Magnet Power

Permanent Neodymium-Iron-Boron (NdFeB) magnets are exceptionally strong.  However, there are a range of grades of NdFeB, with differing magnetic properties to suit specific applications.  Of those grades, the N55 is one of the most powerful presently available.

N55 Neodymium Magnet Characteristics

The N55 grade of NdFeB represents the present pinnacle of permanent magnet technology, with unparalleled magnetic strength.  Although not suitable for every magnet application, the N55 grade offers key benefits in certain circumstances.

Superior Magnetic Field Strength

The N55 grade of NdFeB boasts a maximum energy product of up to 52 Mega-Gauss Oersteds (MGOe), significantly more than other permanent magnet materials.  This exceptional strength allows for the use of smaller sized magnets in applications where space is limited but a higher magnetic strength is needed.

Impressive Pull Force

Neodymium N55 grade magnets exhibit a remarkable pull force and are capable of lifting magnetic items many times heavier.  For example, a small N55 disc magnet, measuring just 10mm in diameter and 5mm in thickness, can have a pull force of over 4kg.

Applications of N55 Neodymium Magnets

Being the strongest grade of neodymium, N55 magnets are ideally suited for a wide range of applications across various industries.  These include:

Industrial and Manufacturing

• Magnetic separators for removing metal contaminants;
• Powerful lifting and holding devices;
• High-performance motors and generators;

Consumer Electronics

• Speakers and headphones for superior sound quality;
• Hard disk drives for data storage;
• Magnetic closures for electronic devices;

Automotive Industry

• Electric and hybrid vehicle motors;
• Sensors and actuators;
• Magnetic mounting solutions;

Research and Development

• Particle accelerators and scientific instruments;
• Magnetic levitation experiments;
• High-field strength applications in physics research;

Neodymium N55 Magnet Selection

Even once determining that an application requires the N55 grade of neodymium there are a number of variables to consider including:

Neodymium Magnet Shape and Size

NdFeB N55 magnets are available in various shapes, including:

• Discs
• Blocks
• Rings
• Rods/Cylinders

Once the optimum shape is selected, consideration moves to the size and maximising the size to strength ratio, with larger magnets generally having a greater pull force.

Neodymium Magnet Protective Coating Options

All neodymium magnets are at risk of corrosion and require specialist coatings for protection.  N55 magnets are available in one of four different standard coatings to suit both the application environment and aesthetics:

• Nickel (Ni);
• Nickel-Copper-Nickel (Ni-Cu-Ni);
• Gold (Au);
• Zinc (Zn);

Neodymium Magnet Operating Temperature Considerations

The magnetic performance of permanent neodymium magnets is compromised when exposed to high temperatures.  The maximum operating temperature for the N55 grade of neodymium magnets is typically around 80°C (176°F).  Applications exposing magnets to higher temperatures may require magnets with a better performance in higher temperatures, such as a different grade of neodymium magnet or another type of permanent magnet (e.g. Samarium Cobalt).

Neodymium Magnet Handling and Safety

The N55 grade of neodymium is extremely strong and therefore dangerous if handled and stored incorrectly.  Gloves should be worn when handling the magnets, with additional protective equipment for larger-sized magnets.  The magnets will attract to each other (at an accelerating speed and with significant force), highlighting the necessity of safe storage.  Also, handlers are at risk of pinch hazards with hands, fingers, etc being caught between two attracting and colliding magnets.  The magnets should be kept away from electronic devices and magnetic media as the magnetic field can causes irreparable damage.

Superior Neodymium N55 Grade Magnets

The N55 grade of neodymium magnets represents the cutting edge of magnetic technology, offering unparalleled strength and performance for a wide range of applications.  Bunting’s engineers specialise in magnet and magnet assemble design and construction and are available to offer advice and support when considering the optimum neodymium magnet for any application.