Posts Tagged ‘Neodymium’

What is the difference between the maximum operating temperature and the Curie temperature of the magnets?

The maximum operating temperature is the maximum temperature the magnet may be continuously subjected to with no significant loss of magnetic strength. This is 176F (80°) for standard grades of neodymium magnets. The Curie Temperature is the temperature at which the magnet will become completely demagnetized. This is 590F (310°) for standard grades of neodymium magnets. Higher temperature grades have higher maximum operating temperatures and higher Curie Temperatures. At temperatures between these two points, a magnet will permanently lose a portion of its magnetic strength. The loss will be greater the closer to the Curie Temperature it is heated.

Do I have to worry about temperature with neodymium magnets?

Yes.  Neodymium Iron Boron magnets are sensitive to heat.  If a magnet heated above its maximum operating temperature (176F (80°) for standard N grades) the magnet will permanently lose a fraction of its magnetic strength.  Different grades of neodymium different maximum operating and Curie temperatures.