Magnets are used in various industries, from automotive and medical to rail infrastructure. Various factors, including magnetic properties and tensile strength, affect Magnetism, determining its performance. However, the temperature is one of the most critical environmental factors affecting materials’ magnetic properties.
Understanding Magnetism
Magnetism is the force of attraction or repulsion between objects, which occurs when electrons in a material spin in the same direction, creating a magnetic field. This magnetic field can cause objects to stick to magnets. However, the temperature can weaken the magnetic properties of a material by disrupting the alignment of electrons.
Curie Temperature and Magnetism
Ferromagnetic materials, which can be magnetised, have a critical Curie temperature. When these materials are heated above this temperature, they lose their magnetic properties entirely. The Curie temperature varies depending on the material and can range from a few hundred to a few thousand degrees Celsius.
The impact of temperature on a neodymium magnet depends on its shape and the circuit design within which it is used. Small, thin magnets are generally more susceptible than magnets with greater volume to rising temperatures. All neodymium magnets will lose a certain amount of performance for every degree rise in temperature, even if it is below their maximum operating temperature. Depending on size, shape, grade, and usage, a neodymium magnet can lose 0.08%-0.12% of its magnetic strength for every degree Celsius rise in temperature.
Neodymium Magnet Performance
Up to 150 degrees Celsius, neodymium magnets have the best magnetic performance of all permanent magnetic materials. However, when elevated to temperatures above 150 degrees Celsius, their magnetic strength will be reduced below that of a magnet of the same size made from samarium cobalt material. Neodymium magnets maintain their magnetic stability in very low temperatures, and only at -138 degrees Celsius will their magnetic structure become affected, resulting in a loss of performance between 10 and 20%.
Temperature Control in Industries
Temperature control is crucial in various industries that use magnets. In the automotive industry, magnetic sensors used in cars must function correctly, and temperature control is crucial to ensure that they operate effectively. Similarly, in the medical industry, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) machines rely on the magnetic properties of materials to create images of the human body. Temperature control is essential to ensure that the MRI machine functions correctly and produces accurate results.
Magnetic Safety Barrier Fencing
Magnets are also essential components of magnetic safety barrier fencing used in UK rail infrastructure. These magnets are selected based on their strength and robustness, allowing them to withstand extreme temperatures and environmental conditions in the railway industry.
Conclusion
Temperature is a critical environmental factor that affects the magnetism of materials. The magnets used in various industries, including rail infrastructure, are carefully selected for their strength and durability. Neodymium magnets, which provide excellent resistance to demagnetisation and thermal stress, are commonly used in magnetic safety barrier fencing. By selecting the right magnets, industries can ensure that their products provide reliable and long-lasting performance, even in harsh environmental conditions. If you want to hire or buy magnetic safety barrier fencing, contact our team of experts at 0330 113 0004 today.
