FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

• Q: How do I clean a hard magnet?
• A: You want to make sure that you properly store your magnets at all times. Make sure you store your magnets in a cool dry place, in a closed container or box, and in attracting position to preserve magnetization. Ideally it would be best if you can store your magnets with spacers between them. In the event that that the magnets attract metal particles, you can wipe them off with a dry cloth.

• Q: What is the maximum operating temperature of my magnet?
  A: The maximum operating temp for each magnet material varies.
  See chart.
• Q: What are the different types of magnets?
• A: There are two types of magnets, permanent magnets and electro magnets. Permanent magnets produce their own magnetic field while electro magnets require an external source of power i.e. a battery.

*This chart represents the approximate maximum operating temp of each material.

• Q: What is the difference between isotropic material and anisotropic material?
• A: Isotropic material is non-oriented material which can be magnetized in any direction. During the manufacturing process, the magnet is not exposed to a magnetic field.
Anisotropic material is oriented material which can be magnetized in one direction. During the manufacturing process, the magnet is exposed to a magnetic field to orient the material in the preferred direction of magnetization to heighten the magnets performance.

• Q: What materials can I use to block magnetic field or redirect poles?
• A: Materials that are attracted to magnets can be used to block magnetic field or redirect poles. Cold rolled steel plates are commonly used to accomplish this. To ensure that you have blocked the magnetic field completely, you can do a simple paper clip test. Simply place a paper clip against the material that you are using to block the magnetic field while the magnet is attracted to the opposite side. If the paper clip is attracted to the metal, you have leakage and you might want to use a thicker piece of metal to completely block the magnetic field and retest.


• Q: Can I machine the magnets if I need to?
• A: Hard magnets can be machined but you have to be familiar with the special machining techniques to avoid damaging the magnet. Depending on the magnet, you might require special diamond tools and grinding wheels. Do not machine magnetized material.