Samarium-cobalt magnets – find manufacturers and suppliers

Samarium-cobalt magnets (SmCo magnets) are a type of permanent magnet consisting of an alloy of samarium (Sm) and cobalt (Co).

They belong to the group of rare earth magnets and are characterized by exceptional magnetic properties as well as high temperature and corrosion resistance.

Below you will find an overview of the material composition, magnetic properties, temperature behavior and production of samarium-cobalt magnets, as well as an overview of their areas of application, their advantages and tips on maintenance and care:

Material composition of samarium-cobalt magnets:

Samarium is a rare earth element that develops strong magnetic properties when combined with cobalt.

The following alloy variants are available:

1. SmCo₅ contains a simpler composition and offers high magnetic strength.
2. Sm₂Co₁₇ has a more complex structure with higher energy product density and better temperature resistance.

Magnetic properties of samarium-cobalt magnets:

1. SmCo magnets have a high remanence (residual magnetism), which allows them to generate a strong magnetic field.
2. They have a high coercivity. They are therefore extremely resistant to demagnetization by external magnetic fields or high temperatures.
3. The magnetic properties remain almost constant even under extreme conditions.

Temperature behavior of samarium-cobalt magnets:

1. Thanks to their high temperature resistance, they work reliably at temperatures from -200 °C to +350 °C.
2. They have a low temperature coefficient. Therefore, the magnetic force changes only minimally with temperature fluctuations.

Production of samarium-cobalt magnets:

Powder metallurgy process:

1. The raw materials (samarium and cobalt) are mixed and pulverized.
2. The powder is pressed under a magnetic field to define the magnetic direction.
3. This is followed by sintering (exposure to heat), which compacts the material.
4. After sintering, the magnets are ground or coated to achieve specific shapes and surface properties.

Use of samarium-cobalt magnets:

SmCo magnets are popular in industries and applications that place extreme demands on magnetic force, temperature stability and corrosion protection.

1. Industrial applications:
Motors and generators: In high-performance motors, such as in wind turbines or in the aerospace industry.
Sensors and measuring devices: Used in precision sensors that require a constant magnetic force, even at extreme temperatures.
Robotics: Used in high-precision motion control systems.

2. Medical applications:
Medical devices: heart pumps (ventricular assist devices, VADs), MRI machines and other medical applications that require strong and stable magnetic fields.
Dentistry: Fixation of dental prostheses using magnetic holders.

3. Electronics:
Microelectronics: In loudspeakers, microphones and headphones for high-quality audio devices.
Hard disk drives: Historical applications in data storage before NdFeB magnets became popular.

4. Military and aerospace:
Satellites and spacecraft: use in position control systems and in devices that must operate in extreme environmental conditions.
Defense technology: Use in powerful radar systems and actuators.

5. Energy technology:
High temperature applications: Efficient magnets for high-performance energy storage or thermal generators.
Hybrid and electric vehicles: Use in electric motors for vehicles with high power requirements.

Advantages of samarium-cobalt magnets:

• Resistant to extreme temperatures and temperature fluctuations.
• High corrosion resistance makes additional protection such as coatings unnecessary.
• Resists demagnetization by external magnetic fields.
• Outstanding durability, even under harsh environmental conditions.

Maintenance and care tips for samarium-cobalt magnets:

• Due to their brittleness, magnets should not be bumped or dropped.
• Corrosion protection:is not normally necessary, but may be useful in aggressive chemical environments.
• Store samarium-cobalt magnets separately and securely to prevent demagnetization due to mutual interference.

Samarium-cobalt magnets (SmCo magnets) are high-quality permanent magnets that are used in demanding applications.

Here is an overview of the most important criteria to consider when purchasing samarium-cobalt magnets:

When purchasing these magnets, several aspects should be considered to ensure that they meet the requirements and offer the best price-performance ratio.

• The remanence (Br) indicates the strength of the magnetic field when the magnet is fully magnetized. Higher values are ideal for applications that require strong magnetic fields.
• The coercive force (Hc) shows the resistance to demagnetization by external magnetic fields or temperatures. A high value is important if the magnet is exposed to extreme conditions.
• The energy product (BHmax) is the measure of the maximum energy that the magnet can store. Higher values indicate more powerful magnets.
• Make sure that the magnet is suitable for the intended temperature range. SmCo magnets can withstand temperatures from -200 °C to +350 °C.
• Note the temperature coefficient! A low value means that the magnetic performance remains stable even with temperature fluctuations.
• Choose between:
• SmCo₅: For applications with high magnetic strength requirements and lower temperature fluctuations.
• Sm₂Co₁₇: For higher temperatures and stronger magnetic fields.
• Ensure that high-quality raw materials have been used, as impurities can impair performance.
• Pay attention to the exact dimensions (e.g. diameter, length, width, height) to ensure that the magnet fits the intended application.
• SmCo magnets are available in various shapes:
• Disks: For flat applications.
• Blocks: Ideal for mechanical fixations.
• Rings: Frequently used in electric motors.
• Special shapes: Customization according to customer requirements for special applications.
• SmCo magnets generally do not require a coating as they are corrosion-resistant. However, an additional coating may be useful for particularly aggressive chemical environments.
• Precise surfaces are critical for optimal performance and fit.
• Buy according to need. Bulk quantities often offer better unit prices.
• Check availability and delivery times, especially for custom-made products.
• Make sure that the magnets comply with international standards (e.g. ISO 9001).
• check the specifications of the magnet, such as grades (e.g. Sm2Co17-26), which define the performance.
• Ensure that production is environmentally friendly and in compliance with REACH and RoHS directives.
• High-quality SmCo magnets are more expensive than other types of magnets. However, consider their longevity and performance.
• Ask for volume discounts or long-term supply contracts.
• Some applications require specific properties or shapes. Make sure the supplier can offer such customizations.
• check if additional mounting methods or brackets are required.
• A good supplier will offer technical advice to ensure the magnet is best suited to your application.
• Look for warranties or return policies.
• Availability of support for technical questions or problems.

With these points in mind, you can ensure that you choose the right samarium cobalt magnet for your needs. Would you like a recommendation for suppliers or assistance with technical selection?

Samarium-cobalt magnets can be purchased from various suppliers. You will find comprehensive information on manufacturers and suppliers of Samarium Cobalt Magnets around the world on Exportpages.