Magnets are fascinating objects that have been captivating humans for centuries. From the ancient lodestone compasses used by explorers to navigate the seas, to the powerful neodymium magnets used in modern technology, magnets have come a long way. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the world of magnets and explore the top 10 strongest magnets in the world.
How are magnets measured?
Before we dive into the list of strongest magnets, it’s important to understand how magnets are measured. The strength of a magnet is typically measured in terms of its magnetic field strength or magnetization. The most common unit for measuring magnetic field strength is the Tesla (T), named after Nikola Tesla, a pioneer in the field of electromagnetism. One Tesla is equivalent to one weber per square meter (Wb/m2).
Another common unit for measuring magnetization is the Gauss (G), named after Carl Friedrich Gauss, a mathematician and physicist who made significant contributions to the study of magnetism. One Gauss is equivalent to one maxwell per square centimeter (mT/cm2). One Tesla is equal to 10,000 Gauss.
What makes a magnet strong?
The strength of a magnet depends on several factors, including the type of material used, the shape and size of the magnet, and the manufacturing process. Some materials, such as rare earth elements, have inherently stronger magnetic properties than others, making them ideal for creating powerful magnets.
The most common type of magnets used in applications requiring high magnetic fields are permanent magnets, which are made from ferromagnetic or ferromagnetic materials that can retain their magnetic properties even when the external magnetic field is removed. These magnets are typically made from materials such as neodymium, samarium, or dysprosium, which belong to a group of elements called rare earth elements.
The Top 10 Strongest Magnets in the World
1. N55 Neodymium Magnet
The N55 neodymium magnet, also known as N55 NdFeB, is currently the strongest magnet in the world in terms of magnetic field strength. It is made from a combination of neodymium, iron, and boron, and has a magnetic field strength of up to 1.44 Tesla. This magnet is commonly used in high-performance applications such as magnetic levitation systems, magnetic bearings, and high-performance motors.
2. SmCo Magnet
The SmCo magnet, or samarium cobalt magnet, is another type of rare earth magnet that boasts a high magnetic field strength. These magnets are made from a combination of samarium and cobalt, and can achieve magnetic field strengths of up to 1.3 Tesla. SmCo magnets are known for their high resistance to corrosion and high-temperature stability, making them suitable for use in harsh environments and high-temperature applications.
3. NdFeB Magnet
NdFeB, or neodymium iron boron, magnets are the most common type of rare earth magnets. They are known for their high magnetic field strength and good cost-performance ratio. NdFeB magnets can achieve magnetic field strengths of up to 1.3 Tesla, depending on the specific composition and manufacturing process. These magnets are widely used in applications such as motors, generators, and magnetic separation systems.
4. Alnico Magnet
Alnico magnets, made from an alloy of aluminum, nickel, and cobalt, are one of the older types of permanent magnets. Despite being surpassed by rare earth magnets in terms of magnetic field strength, Alnico magnets still offer respectable magnetic properties and excellent temperature stability. These magnets can achieve magnetic field strengths of up to 1.2 Tesla, making them suitable for applications that require high-temperature performance, such as in