PMAG

User Manual

Version 2, May 1, 2020

By
Dantam K. Rao
Technical Director
MagWeb USA

MagWeb, USA
12456 Pond Cypress Ln, Frisco, TX 75035, USA
Web: MagWeb.US email: [email protected] Tel. 214-432-7594

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 ABSTRACT

Whether you are designing an automotive traction motor, wind power generator, washing machine motor or
loudspeaker, your product is only as good as the Permanent Magnet Material that you employ. To gain
competitive edge for your product, you need to identify the best quality magnet grade that suits your
specific requirements. This requires access to their magnetic properties, called demagnetization curves.

But so far, these demag curves were available only as graphical plots in picture files. But you cannot
superpose them to discover a best grade. You cannot input picture files into a design software. You cannot
easily locate the maximum energy point to minimize the cost. Reading off values of residual flux density at
a temperature using them is prone to errors. What is more, with picture files, it is difficult to estimate a key
demagnetization resistance characteristic, called Yield Flux Density (see Chapter 2,3). All these issues
made the discovery, design or safe operation of magnets a difficult and non-trivial task.

To address these issues, MagWeb prepared this PMAG database of curated compilation of thousands of
digital demagnetization curves of all magnet grades produced by major manufacturers worldwide. The
Digital B(H) curves represent properties as a set of carefully digitized data points.

With PMAG, you can estimate the key demagnetization resistance characteristic, viz., Yield Flux Density.
It is the point beyond which irreversible losses are unacceptably high. The PMAG Database can save you
time in discovering the right magnet (and its manufacturer) that meets your specific requirements. You can
use it to compare various properties of magnets. You can use it to minimize the cost of a magnet by
identifying the maximum energy product point. You can input the digital B(H) data into your design
software. You can use it to simplify your magnet sizing calculations.

Magnets are available in various strengths, called grades. But the quality of a grade depends on the
factory that makes it. Different manufacturers use their own secret recipe of ingredients, manufacturing
processes and purity control methods to fabricate magnets. So even if two magnets are stamped with the
same ‘grade label’, their demag curves differ subtly. PMAG database lists properties of grades by their
manufacturers to help understand this subtle manufacturer-centric differences in their quality.

PMAG aims to help you to discover an optimal permanent magnet and integrate it into your product,
thereby gain competitive advantage. It is hoped that this user manual will help you get a deeper insight into
the benefits offered by PMAG.

DISCLAIMER
The PMAG database is the result of multi-decade effort to digitize and compile hard-to-find magnetic property data from open sources/
publications. They include scientific literature, manuals, handbooks, textbooks, websites, federal databases, university records, old
archives, manufacturer’s catalogs etc. MagWeb believes the digitized data to be accurate and reliable. It is intended to support the
user in making informed decisions on magnetic materials. MagWeb does not provide any warranty or support. MagWeb is not liable
for any damages caused by using its database whether explicitly or implicitly. The sources and methods used to digitize the curves
are confidential and proprietary. MagWeb reserves the right to change the data without notice.

2020 by MagWeb USA. Open Access License granted to freely download/distribute this User Manual.

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 TABLE OF CONTENTS

1. INTRODUCTION ...................................................................................................... 4
1.1. B(H) Curve ........................................................................................................... 4
1.2. B (H; T) Demagnetization Chart ........................................................................... 6
1.3. Significance .......................................................................................................... 7

2. IMPROVE PERFORMANCE .................................................................................... 9

2.1. Manufacturer ........................................................................................................ 9
2.2. Grade ................................................................................................................. 10
2.3. Energy Product .................................................................................................. 12
2.4. Cost .................................................................................................................... 14

3. IMPROVE DEMAGNETIZATION RESISTANCE.................................................... 15

3.1. Manufacturer ...................................................................................................... 15
3.2. Grade ................................................................................................................. 16
3.3. Neo vs SmCo ..................................................................................................... 16

4. NEODYMIUM MAGNETS ....................................................................................... 18

4.1. Grades ............................................................................................................... 18
4.2. Major Manufacturers .......................................................................................... 19

5. SAMARIUM COBALT MAGNETS ......................................................................... 21

6. BONDED/MOLDED MAGNETS ............................................................................. 22

7. FERRITE CERAMIC MAGNETS ............................................................................ 23

8. ALNICO MAGNETS ............................................................................................... 24

9. APPENDIX A. PMAG DATABASE FORMAT ....................................................... 25

9.1. Category Folders................................................................................................ 25
9.2. Manufacturer Subfolders .................................................................................... 25
9.3. Grade Files......................................................................................................... 26

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 1. INTRODUCTION

Permanent Magnets are those that can attract iron1. They store energy (as in a pre-
compressed spring). You use them in your daily life: in your computer disc drives, smart
phones, TVs, loudspeakers, automobiles, washing machines and refrigerators. Industry
uses them in Automotive Traction Motors, Wind Power Generators, Flight Control
Systems, MRI Machines, Maglev Trains, Magnetic Clutches, Brakes, Solenoids etc.
A magnet is made of fine powders of rare earths and metals. Manufacturers use several
methods (sintering, molding, casting, pressing etc.) to make them. They measure its
magnetic properties as Demagnetization Curve per IEC 60404-5. Major applications need
high grade magnets that can withstand high temperatures. So PMAG database centers
on those manufacturers that provide temperature-dependent demagnetization curves

1.1. B(H) Curve

Fig. 1 shows the B(H) curve of a typical Neo magnet. It shows how Flux Density B [tesla]
in a magnet varies with magnetic field strength H [kA/m]). It comprises a usable linear
portion (green), followed by a knee2 that joins it with a useless waterfall-like vertical line3.

Figure 1. B(H) Curve of a Magnet. PMAG database furnishes the two key
properties (By, Br) needed for its safe operation.

1
Electromagnets also attract iron, but only if energized.
2
Knee in 3rd quadrant if B(H) curve is a straight-line in the 2nd quadrant.
3
In the waterfall zone, the magnet transitions from ‘hard’ to ‘soft’. It also has a point of numerical instability (point of inflexion).
Page 4 of 29
A magnet’s strength is defined primarily by two properties. The first, Residual Flux
Density Br quantifies its ability to create flux. It is the flux density a magnet carries in a
closed magnetic circuit when there no applied field H. As more H is applied, this flux
density decreases linearly. It returns back to Br when the applied field is removed - as
long one operates within the linear segment. A magnet’s grade is determined by its Br.
The linear segment terminates at a knee on set point called yield point Y. Beyond Y, the
magnet yields. That is, on removing H, its residual flux density reduces by a small
irreversible loss Br permanently.
So besides the grade, the quality of a magnet is determined by a second property called
Yield Flux Density By. It is the flux density at Y where the magnet will lose 1% of Br
permanently. Beyond Y, the magnet faces unacceptably high reduction in B r. So By
quantifies a magnet’s resistance to demagnetization. Thus (By, Br) define both grade and
quality of a magnet. Their span defines the safe operating range.
In a pre-compressed spring analogy, Br refers to ‘compressed height ‘, indicating a spring
with stored energy. By refers to its ‘free height’, indicating a spring with no stored energy.

Figure 2. Demagnetization Chart from a manufacturer. It shows J(H) curves

cluttered with B(H) curves, making it difficult to define precisely the safe linear
operating region of magnets.

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1.2. B (H; T) Demagnetization Chart

Fig. 2 shows a typical demagnetization chart provided by manufacturers. It shows B(H)

and J(H) plots at several temperatures. The B(H) curve presented in Fig.1 represents its
essence at a particular temperature.
In such prior demag charts, J(H) curve intersects the linear portions of B(H) curve at
umpteen places. These intersections obscure the critical role played by the linear portion
in safe operation of magnets.
Fig. 3 shows MagWeb’s alternative lucid representation. It contains only B(H) curves.
Digitization enables it to clearly display the linear portion and the key Yield Flux Density
By. It highlights the Safe Operating Region (SOR, green) and unsafe one (red). It shows
how a temperature rise drastically narrows a magnet’s SOR.

Figure 3. Typical B(H) Demagnetization Curves in PMAG database

For example, consider a PM motor using Arnold N52M grade. At 100C, its SOR is (By, Br)
= (0.698,1.312)T = 1.005 0.307 T. If its temperature rises to 150C, its SOR shifts to
(0.908, 1.22)T = 1.064  0.156 T. So increasing magnet’s temperature from 100C to
150C halves the dynamic load capacity (from 0.307 to  0.156T).
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The PMAG Database stores the B(H) data points in excel files. Appendix A, Fig. 14
describe the format used by MagWeb to store the B(H) data.

1.3. Significance

MagWeb’s PMAG database is a large and unique compilation of digital demagnetization

curves. It contains about 5000 temperature-dependent digital demagnetization curves of
hundreds of grades that are made by dozens of manufacturers. It puts vital magnet’s
properties of all permanent magnets at your finger-tips. Typical benefits of using PMAG
database are:
 Improve Performance:
o Identify the manufacturer of finest quality magnets
o Discover Optimal Grade that best suits your requirements.
o Determine BHmax of any grade
o Save on cost by choosing the right operating point
 Improve Demagnetization Resistance:
o Limit irreversible loss and develop optimal fault diagnostics.
o Identify Br of a magnet at your machine temperature.
o Superpose B(H) Curves to compare same grades.
o Input digital B(H) data into your Computer software.
o Assist in Detail Design
Largest Database. Different manufacturers offer magnets at various grades. The quality
of their grades depends on several factors e.g. impurities, particle sizes, shapes,
composition, quality control practices 4, 5, 6, 7, 8 PMAG database lists B(H) data of each
grade produced by each manufacturers. With it, the users can thus make their own
assessment of the quality of grades (carrying same grade label) produced by different
manufacturers.
Yield Flux Density By. It quantifies the demagnetization resistance of a magnet. PMAG
database lists the Yield Flux Density of any grade. Operating a magnet beyond its yield
point produces unacceptably large irreversible loss. (see Ch. 2, 3).
Computer Input. Demag curves supplied by manufacturers as picture files cannot be
inputted into computer software. MagWeb’s (Hi, Bi) digital data tables can be inputted into
simulation software. The yield point data is included in it, so the software can display
precisely any demagnetized region of magnets so increase the accuracy of simulation9,10.

4
See section 2.2 on how B(H) curves of same-grade Neo magnets vary with manufacturers.
5
Benecki, W. T., What the heck happened to the Magnet industry?, Magnetics Magazine, Oct. 2015,
http://www.magneticsmagazine.com/main/articles/what-the-heck-happened-to-the-magnet-industry/
6
Mildrum H.F. et al, High Speed PM Generator Magnet Investigation - Rare Earth Magnets, AFWAL-TR-81-2096,
http://www.dtic.mil/dtic/tr/fulltext/u2/a108550.pdf
7
Strnat, K. L., Study of sintered magnets of Nd-Fe-B type, Report No. SLCET-TR-84-0458-F, 1989,
http://www.dtic.mil/dtic/tr/fulltext/u2/a209185.pdf
8
Quality Control, Magfine Corp., https://www.magfine.co.jp/eng/magnet/quality.html
9
Kim, Y. H. et al, Study on optimal design of 210 kW IPMSM considering thermal demagnetization, AIP Advances, No. 8, 2018,
https://aip.scitation.org/doi/pdf/10.1063/1.4994160o
Page 7 of 29
Superpose B(H) Curves. In the past, demag curves were created in diverse units,
scales and formats. This made it very difficult to discover which manufacturer makes a
better grade. The digital demag curves in PMAG Database are created in standard SI
units. This enables one to superpose B(H) curves from different manufacturers. Such
superposition can help you to identify a better quality grade (see sec. 2.1).
Discover Best Grade. Designer uses several parameters (such as Br, By, BHmax) to
discover the best quality magnet grade. The PMAG Database can thus be used to
investigate how various grades compare from such diverse perspectives.
Residual Flux Density Br. It varies nonlinearly with temperature. Operating magnets
require precise value of residual flux density Br at the continuous duty and overload duty
temperatures. The PMAG allows you to determine Br precisely at any temperature.
Safe Operating Range. The interval (By, Br) defines the lower and upper bounds within
which a magnet can operate without demagnetization. The PMAG database allows you
to match the SOR of your machine with the SOR of the magnet.
Maximum Energy Product BHmax. This is useful in minimizing the volume and hence
the cost of a magnet. The PMAG database can determine its location and how it changes
with temperature. This allows to you to minimize the cost of magnets.
In summary, this PMAG Database allows you to limit the irreversible demagnetization of
the magnet, to determine their safe operating range, to compare B(H) curves, to discover
the best quality magnet grade and to minimize their cost. All these benefits simplify your
task of discovering a best quality magnet and designing it into your machine, thereby
allowing you to gain competitive edge of your product.

10
Sundaramahalingam, S., Finite element modeling and simulation of composite magnetic materials using ANSYS, IJITEE, Vol.8,
June
2019, https://www.ijitee.org/wp-content/uploads/papers/v8i8/H6637068819.pdf
Page 8 of 29
 2. IMPROVE PERFORMANCE

This section describes how PMAG database can be used to improve the performance of
your machine. It shows how to discover an optimal magnet that best suits your specific
requirements, thereby improving the performance of your machine.
Auto-traction motors expose magnets to high temperatures ranging 100C to 200C. The
primary requirement for a magnet is that it should have widest safe operating range at
rated temperatures. That is, they should offer highest Br and lowest By. So designing
traction motors needs accurate (By, Br) at rated temperatures, which PMAG provides.

2.1. Manufacturer

In the early 1990’s, the quality of Neo magnets produced by China used to vary widely.
But over the past 10 years, the Chinese magnet industry has come of age. Today, many
Chinese firms offer grades with reasonably consistent properties at competitive prices.
So users have come to ‘expect’ that the same grade magnets, procured from different
manufacturers, to have same properties within published tolerances.
But unfortunately even now the quality of a grade varies with manufacturers. This is
hidden in their demagnetization curves – they vary with manufacturers – even in magnets
labeled as of same-grade. Hence magnets from some major manufacturers perform
better than others.
For example, till 2012, manufacturers used Dysprosium (Dy) up to 12% to improve the
demagnetization resistance (i.e. Yield Flux Density) of UH, EH and AH grades (sourced
in EV motors). But at ~$300/kg, Dy is very expensive. Recently, to combat its high cost,
different manufacturers developed different methods, which lowered the Dy to 7.5%.
These methods include grain boundary diffusion11, grain size refinement, solid solution
strengthening etc. But they that differ in the % Dy used to produce same grade. Using
different % Dy caused difference in the degree of demagnetization resistance they
achieved. As a result, the quality of high grades continues to differ with manufacturers.

Yield Flux Density Differences

For example, Fig. 4 compares the Yield Flux Density of same N40UH grade at 180C from
3 different manufacturers – TDK, Arnold and HPMG. It shows that TDK’s N40UH grade
has By of 0.291T, while HPMG’s N40UH grade has By of 0.393T.
This shows that HPMG’s N40UH grade has 35% lower demagnetization resistance than
TDK’s N40UH grade. It demonstrates that even if manufacturers use the same grade
label, one of them will have higher demagnetization resistance, so is the preferable

11
BJMT, Grain Boundary Diffusion, https://idealmagnetsolutions.com/knowledge-base/grain-boundary-diffusion/
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choice. One can use the Yield Flux Density available in PMAG in this fashion to discover
the manufacturer that offers a higher quality grade.

Figure 4. Yield Flux Density of N40UH varies significantly with its manufacturer.

2.2. Grade

PMAG database reveals that the energy product BHmax varies by as much as 20% in the
same grade magnets produced by different manufacturers. That is, there will be a
manufacturer whose grade offers 20% higher energy than others. Discovering and
switching to such manufacturer (without changing the grade) adds an extra ‘cushion’ that
can benefit your design!
Fig. 5 shows the effect of temperature class of a N40 magnet on the Yield Flux Density.
All carry same energy but have different temperature capability. It shows that for N40,
N40M grades (with lower ~100C capability) By clusters around ~ 0.65T. In contrast, that
for N40H, N40SH (with higher ~150C capability) By clusters around ~0.3T. Thus using
high temperature magnets doubles the demagnetization resistance.

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 Figure 5. Yield Flux Density variation with Letter Grade.
Fig. 6 shows the effect of energy of magnets (with different temperature rating) on the
Yield Flux Density. It shows that increase in energy stored increases both residual flux
density and yield flux density proportionately.

Figure 6. Yield Flux Density dependency on Numeral Grade.

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Figure 7. Coercivity Degradation of a Magnet Grade varies with the manufacturer.

Fig. 7 shows the effect of manufacturer on HcB temperature coefficient. The y-axis shows
the percentage degradation relative to a reference HcB (-1000 kA/m for TDK at 20oC).
Thus PMAG database indicates that a HcB temperature coefficient is highly nonlinear; this
nonlinearity varies with the manufacturer. It reveals that using the linear temperature
coefficients (provided by manufacturers) can produce misleading results.

2.3. Energy Product

BH Energy Product is the product of B [G] and H [Oersted]). It characterizes energy

density (the energy stored per unit volume) at a given H. A high BHmax, indicates the
smaller volume of the magnet is needed to store same energy.
Review of BH(H) Curves of hundreds of magnets revealed that magnets from only
handful of reputed manufacturers met their maximum energy product specification. The
PMAG database will help you spot such reputed manufacturers.

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Unfortunately, manufacturers do not publish the maximum energy product BHmax at
elevated temperatures. You can use the digital (Bi, Hi) data in PMAG to calculate BH at
any temperature. The PMAG is the only database that helps you calculate BHmax for
any magnet and any manufacturer at specific temperature.
In a PM motor, the energy product BH of a magnet at its rated temperature determines its
size12 . To minimize the magnet cost, locate a magnet that needs smallest volume to
store same maximum energy. Then operate it close to this max. energy BHmax point 13.

Figure 8. Energy Product Curve BH(H) indicate the point at which the magnet
stores maximum energy. Operating it at BHmax point minimizes the cost.

The BH can be plotted against H. Fig. 8 shows the BH(H) curve for the N40UH magnet
from TDK at 180C. At the point M the magnet attains maximum energy product. It
corresponds to P on B(H) curve. This BHmax reduces with the temperature. A N40UH
magnet at room temperature has BHmax = 40 MGOe. Fig. 8 shows that the same
magnet at 180C, it reduces to BHmax = 24.7 MGOe. Thus the magnet degrades energy
wise by ~40% when the temperature increases from 25 C to 180 C.

12
Todorov, G., and Stoev, B., Analytical model for sizing the magnets of permanent magnet synchronous machines, J Elec. Engg.,
Vol. 3, 2015, pp. 134-141.
13
Krishnan, R., Electric motor drives, modeling, analysis and control, p. 518. Prentice-Hall, 2001.
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2.4. Cost

Figure 9. Energy Product curve can be used to minimize the cost of a magnet.
A BH(H) curve can help you achieve a minimal magnet cost design. Fig. 9 shows BH(H)
curve for an N52 magnet at 40 C. What working point D minimize its cost without
damaging it?
Fig. 9’s BH(H) curve shows max energy BHmax = 48.4 MGOe occurs at M. Its B(H) curve
shows that its Yield Flux Density By = 0.44 T. Allowing a 20% safety margin establishes
a Safe Floor Point A (0.53T). The magnet should always operate above this point A to
prevent demagnetization.
One can use PMAG database to locate the working point D that minimizes the cost as follows:

 Draw vertical line from point A(0.53T). It intersects BH curve at point A’(45MGOe).
 Draw a horizontal line from A’. It intersects BH curve again at point D’(45MGOe).
 Draw vertical line from D’. Its intersection with B(H) curve locates point D (0.9T).

Then extreme loads can demagnetize the magnet from D (0.9T) to A(0.53T) – causing 70% drop in B. But
the energy in it fluctuates from D’ (45 MGOe) to M (48.4 MGOe), i.e. energy stored drops only 7%. Thus
the magnet operates near its maximum energy product point M, thereby needs minimal volume. The
PMAG database can be used this way to minimize the cost of a magnet without demagnetization.

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 3. IMPROVE DEMAGNETIZATION RESISTANCE

3.1. Manufacturer

In section 2.1 we have shown that there will be some manufacturer whose grade offers a
higher demagnetization resistance advantage. How high this advantage is, depends on
the operating temperature. For example, Fig. 10 compares the Yield Flux Density By(T)
for N40M grade produced by 3 firms (Ankey, Arnold and K&J). It shows that, in all of
them, the Yield Flux Density increases nonlinearly with temperature. But this nonlinearly
depends on the manufacturer.
Specifically, it shows that Ankey’s N40M grade offers highest demagnetization resistance
(lowest yield flux density). But this demag advantage is maximal either at low
temperature (80C) or high temperature (150C). This shows the need to compare By(T)
plot s of same grade magnets to better understand the demag resistance advantage of a
particular manufacturer.

Figure 10 Yield Flux Density varies nonlinearly with temperature. Such nonlinearity
depends on manufacturer

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3.2. Grade

Figure 11. Yield Flux Density varies nonlinearly with temperature. Such
nonlinearity depends on grade.

Fig. 11 plots the variation of By(T) with the thermal class. As expected, it shows that a
high thermal grade (N40H) offers higher thermal resistance (lower Yield Flux Density). It
shows that Yield Flux Density increases nonlinearly with temperature, and that this
nonlinearity depends on thermal class. It also shows that both N40 and N40H offer same
yield flux density of 0.5T at 80C and 140C respectively.

3.3. Neo vs SmCo

At present most engineers believe14 15 that Neo magnets max out and are preferable for
operation below 150C. Both Neo and Samarium magnets are usable in the 140C to

14
Constantinedis, S., Magnet Selection, https://www.arnoldmagnetics.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/Magnet-Selection-
Constantinides-Gorham-2003-psn-hi-res.pdf
15
Williams, A., High Performance Machine Design Considerations, https://www.arnoldmagnetics.com/wp-
content/uploads/2017/10/ArnoldWP_-Automotive_FINAL-1.pdf
Page 16 of 29
250C range. The choice depends on cost vs. performance tradeoff. Yield Flux Density is
one major consideration in the selection.
Fig. 12 compares the linear portions of B(H) curves of Neo Grade Vac 992TP with
Samarium Cobalt Vacomax 240 in the temperature range of 200-250C. It shows that
even though Samarium magnets offer slightly higher Br, they suffer from substantially
poorer Yield Flux Density, resulting in smaller safe operating range. Specifically, yield flux
densities are:
 at 210C: Neo = 0.113T; Samarium = 0.425T – so Neo has a 0.312T higher demag resistance.
 At 240C: Neo = 0.320T; Samarium = 0.489T - so Neo has a 0.169T higher demag resistance.

Thus, for a 240C application, the higher demagnetization resistance of Neo 921TP make
it a better choice than the samarium magnet Vacmax 240. Of course, Samarium Cobalt
magnets continue to be the only option for operation above 250C.

Figure 12. At 240C, Neo magnet offers higher demagnetization resistance than
SmCo magnet, making it a better choice.

Page 17 of 29
 4. NEODYMIUM MAGNETS

PMAG Database Folder AM lists 3330 B(H) curves of their 707 grades, produced by
more than 35 manufacturers worldwide. For names of all these grades, please go to the
MagWeb.US, click on the Database. They are also called Neo or NdFeB magnets.

Neo magnets are developed by Hitachi in 1980’s. They are produced by sintering ~4µm
size fine powders16. They can be made only in simple blocks, ring or arc shapes. They
are made of ~66% Fe, 30% Neo, 1% B,0.7% Nb, 0.3% Al. 7 to 12% dysprosium is
added to improve high temperature performance, but it increases their cost17. Neo
magnets have poorer thermal stability than SmCo magnets (~0.1%/C). So currently most
engineers prefer to use them below 150C. It can corrode easily, so needs coatings.

4.1. Grades

Manufacturers identify the Neo magnets by “N”. They offer it in several “grades” which
follow Chinese conventions. 64 of them are called “standard” grades, with two codes:
- A letter code, which refer to their Maximum Service Temperature Tmax.
- A numeral code, which prescribes their Max. Energy Product BHmax (MGOe).

Their maximum service temperature ranges 80 to 250 C. Their maximum energy product
ranges 28 to 54 MGOe. Table 4 lists these grades, their maximum service temperatures,
maximum energy product. It shows that Br of Neo magnets spans 1T to 1.45T. Grades
between 30 to 40MGOe are spaced at 0.05T, while those between 40 to 55 are spaced
at ~0.025T.

Table 1. “Standard” Grades of Neodymium Magnets

Br Tesla 1.05 1.10 1.15 1.20 1.25 1.29 1.32 1.35 1.38 1.40 1.42 1.45
BHmax MGOe 28 30 33 35 38 40 42 45 48 50 52 54
Code Max Temp C
AH 230 28AH 30AH 33AH 35AH 38AH 40AH
EH 200 28EH 30EH 33EH 35EH 38EH 40EH 42EH 45EH
UH 180 30UH 33UH 35UH 38UH 40UH 42UH 45UH 48UH 50UH
SH 150 30SH 33SH 35SH 38SH 40SH 42SH 45SH 48SH 50SH 52SH
H 120 30H 33H 35H 38H 40H 42H 45H 48H 50H 52H
M 100 30M 33M 35M 38M 40M 42M 45M 48M 50M 52M
none 80 N30 N33 N35 N38 N40 N42 N45 N48 N50 N52 N54

16
How Neo magnets are made, e-magnetsuk.com
17
Kramers, M.J et al. Prospects for non-rare earth PM magnets for traction motors and generators, JOM, Vol. 12, 2012,
https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s11837-012-0351-z
Page 18 of 29
Of these, UH, EH and AH grades are used primarily in automotive traction motors,
wigglers and wind power generators.
American standards identify a grade as xx/yy where xx refers to maximum energy
product BHmax in MGOe and yy refers to intrinsic coercivity HcJ in Oe. European standard
IEC 60404-8-1 uses same symbols, but with xx for BH max in kJ/m3 and yy for HcJ in
10kA/m. European and Japanese firms do not follow the Chinese naming conventions, so
it is difficult to identify their equivalent grades.
Coating. Neo magnets need coating as their corrosion resistance is poor. All
manufacturers offer a wide variety of coatings18. Electrolytic nickel coating is a common
choice as it is least expensive and provides a hermetic seal against, air, moisture and
gases. The user should select the coating that best suits his application. The thickness of
coating varies from 7 to 28 m. The thickness of the uncoated magnet should be plugged
into a design software (instead of its nominal thickness) for more accurate design of a
machine.

4.2. Major Manufacturers

Neo magnets are offered in several grades. Fig. 13 ranks some these major
manufacturers by the number of grades they produce. It shows that Arnold Magnetic
Technology offers the largest number (79) of grades, followed by Dexter Magnetics (60).
Three European firms - Sura Magnets (51), Neorem (48) and Vacuumschmelze (44) -
also offer more than 40 grades. One Chinese firm Ankey offers ~ 50 grades.
However, few reputed firms such as Hitachi, Shin-Etsu, TDK however produce smaller
number of higher grades. So producing large number of grades need not necessarily
imply that it is a source of high quality grades.
Highest Temperature Magnets: 230-240 C class Neo magnets are offered by
Vaccumschmelze, Arnold Magnetics and Integrated Magnetics with demag curves. They
are also offered by Schramberg and Ningbo YinZhou UpMagnet, but without
demagnetization curves. 220C Class are offered by Sura Magnets, Arnold Magnetics,
Eclipse Magnetics, Hitachi etc.
Strongest Magnets: 55 MGOe grade Neo magnets are produced by Arnold Magnetics,
Dexter Magnetics, Smart Magnet and Yantai Shougang Magnetic. Their residual flux
density can be as high as 1.49T.

18
For comparison of various coatings, see for example e-magnetsuk.com.
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Figure 13. Number of Grades Produced by Major Manufacturers.

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 5. SAMARIUM COBALT MAGNETS

PMAG Database Folder BM lists 668 B(H) curves of their 159 grades, produced by 23
manufacturers worldwide. For a full list of names of all these materials, please go to the
MagWeb.US, click on PMAG Database. It is the preferred choice for operation above
150oC, up to 550C. They are also called Samarium or SMCO Magnets.

They are composed of Sm, Co, balance Cu, Zi and Fe. The powders are pressed, sintered, machined and
magnetized. They can be only made in simple shapes. To prevent chipping, customers are advised to
tumble them, to get edges rounded to 0.005-inch radius. Untumbled magnets can chip, create “dirty”
magnets.

Samarium Magnets were developed for US Air Force by University of Dayton Research
Institute (UDRI) in 1970s. Electron Energy Corp (EEC) produces SMCO magnets that
can operate at 550C. Both EEC, Dexter and Arnold Magnetic offer strongest SMCO
magnets (BHmax = 33 MGOe, Br = 1.19T). Tianhe Magnets offers 52 grades without
demag curves. Dexter Magnetic offers 38 grades with demag curves. Ningbo Ningang
Permanent Magnet also offers 33 grades but without demag curves. Two subcategories:
Sm1Co5: Also called 1:5. It has one Samarium atom per 5 Cobalt atoms. It has 35%
Samarium. It has no iron, so does not corrode with water. Its Energy Product ranges 15 –
25 MGOe. In the PMAG database, they can be identified by its Tmax of 250°C and lower
electrical resistance of 55 µΩcm.
Sm2Co17: Also called 2:17. It has two Samarium atoms for 14 – 17 Cobalt atoms. It is
less expensive (has only 25% Samarium) and carries more energy (21-32 MGOe). Its Br
ranges 0.9 to 1.16T. So most new designs use 2:17 magnets as it is less expensive and
reduces the size of magnets. But it uses iron, so may corrode slightly in water. It has
high demag resistance. It comes in three styles:
 Normal. Their Tmax ranges 350C. They offer higher resistivity of 85 cm.
 Ultra High Temperature (UHT). Their Tmax ranges 400 to 550C. PMAG database
contains their hard to find demag curves. They should be plated, however.
 Low Temperature Coefficient (LTC). They offer near zero thermal temperature
coefficients. So their thermal stability is very high.

SMCO store less energy than Neo and more expensive. But:
 Cooling restores its magnetic properties (reversible thermal degradation).
Above 180C their Br is higher than Neo – so they are the preferred choice .
19

 It can operate up to 550C (but its Br falls to 0.54T) Neo is limited to 250C.
 Its demag resistance is higher than Neo.
 It degrades less with temperature (.035%/C).
 It is more resistant to corrosion.
 It can be abrasively machined only with coolant.
 Its abrasive machining does not degrade its properties.

19
Arnold Magnetics, Temperature effects on magnetic output, http://www.arnoldmagnetics.com/wp-
content/uploads/2017/10/TN_0303_rev_150715.pdf
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 But it is more brittle than Neo magnets.

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 6. BONDED/MOLDED MAGNETS

PMAG Database Folder CM lists 544 B(H) curves of their149 grades, produced by 19
manufacturers worldwide. For a full list of commercial names of all these materials,
please go to the MagWeb.US, click on PMAG Database – Bonded Magnets.

Molded magnets are made by mixing magnetic powders with nonmagnetic binders and
using injection molding or compression bonding to make magnets of intricate shapes. But
binding agent lowers their magnetic strength (relative to sintering). Molding to finished
shape avoids additional machining and assembly cost, reducing their cost. Their
dimensional accuracy is relatively high. They are good for producing large quantities of
small and intricate magnets economically. But their high tooling costs restricts them to
high volume items. They use Neo, Samarium or Ferrite magnetic powders. They can be
mixed in variety of percentages to get diverse grades. Those made of Ferrite are inferior
to others.
Injection Molded magnets are limited to 6 MGOe. Bonded magnets can go up to 13
MGOe. But Aichi Steel’s bonded magnets can reach 21 MGOe (Br ~ 1T). They are
generally small (< 125 gm). Their density is less than 6 gm/cc.
Arnold Magnetic Technology offers 40 grades, followed by Kollektor and Schramberg
(~30). Schramberg and Max Baerman also makes ones that can operate up to 220C and
200 C. Magnequench has the largest number of patents. Their names do not follow any
standard conventions. MagWeb’s magnetization curves can help you to find the best
grade vendor that matches your specific needs.
Injection molding mix ~65% magnetic powders with ~35% thermoplastic “resin”. It
squeezes the heated cavity into a cavity, applying pressure in multiple directions. They
can produce complex intricate shapes (compression bonding produces only blocks,
rings). Insert injection molding can mold magnets over pre-manufactured parts. They can
produce shafts for micromotors with multipole magnets to be mass produced
inexpensively. They are less dense than compression molded ones, so store less energy.
Their maximum service temperature Tmax is limited by that of the binders. PPS resins
can offer Tmax up to 220 C. They also offer better resistance against oils, grease. Other
popular resins are: Nylon 6, 12, PA6, PA12 and Polyamide; their Tmax 150C or 180C.
Compression bonding mix ~80% magnet powders with ~20% thermoset “epoxy”. The
mix is fed into a die cavity and compacted punches; the green part is then cured. This
process applies pressure in one direction, so they can produce only rings, blocks or
segments. They are best suited to make thin wall rings. But the height is limited by the
compression pressure. Its tooling is less complex and hence less expensive than
injection molding. So their energy product ranges 7 to 13 MGOe (Br <0.8T).

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 7. FERRITE CERAMIC MAGNETS

PMAG Database DM lists 425 B(H) Curves of their 134 grades, produced by 19
manufacturers worldwide. For a full list of their commercial names, please go to the
MagWeb.US, click on PMAG Database – Ferrite Magnets.

Ferrite Magnets were first engineered by Philips, Netherland in late 50’s. Dexing
Magnetics offers 63 grades. followed by Kaiven Magnets (52). Alliance Magnetics
makes ferrite magnets with Tmax of 350C. Kaiven Magnets makes strongest magnets
(Br~0.88T). Several manufacturers (China Rare Earth Magnet, Dexing Magnet, Kaiven
Magnet, Ningbo Bestway) can produce these magnets to any standards.
But, their quality controls differ. So their magnetic properties differ. Such difference is
most noticeable at elevated temperatures. PMAG furnishes demagnetization curves of
all grades produced by different manufacturers. It helps in identifying one that produces
best rated Ferrite magnets.
They are made of 85% iron oxide plus oxides of Barium or Strontium Ferrites. They are
compounded with a ceramic binder and is compressed and sintered. Dry-pressing results
in isotropic magnets. Wet pressing results in anisotropic magnets which store far more
energy.
Ferrite magnets are the cheapest magnets. But they are lot weaker. They are very hard
but brittle. They are resistant to water, salt, petrol, but not to acids. They are used in
toys, speakers and motors. Different standards use different symbols to identify their
ferrite magnets as follows.
Standard Symbol
- Chinese standard SJ/T 10410 Y
- USA C
- Europe Standards (IEC404-8-1) HF
- Japan TDK FB

HF20/19 refers to ferrite magnet with minimum energy product of 20 kJ/m 3 and minimum
HcJ of 190 kA/m. All standards specify BHmax, Br, HcB and HcJ, but not Tmax
Properties. Ferrites are valued for their low cost, high resistivity (>10MΩcm) and high
corrosion resistance. Their demagnetization resistance is moderate (~250 kA/m). But
they suffer from low energy (1 to 5 MGOe) and low flux density (Br ~ 0.25 to 0.4 T).
Most Ferrite magnets can operate up to 250C. But some firms produce ferrite magnets
that can operate up to 400 C. But they degrade as temperature decreases (opposite of
other magnets). So they are limited to ~-60C. Their thermal stability is an order of
magnitude worse than Alnico (0.2%/C). For anisotropic materials, coercivity decreases at
+0.35 %/ºC. Their thermal conductivity is ~ 12 w/mK.

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 8. ALNICO MAGNETS

PMAG Database EM lists 84 B(H) Curves of their 75 Alnico Magnets grades, produced
by 12 manufacturers worldwide. For a full list of commercial names of all these materials,
please go to the MagWeb.US, click on PMAG Database – Alnico Magnets.

Alnico magnets are composed of Al (8-12%), Ni (13-20%), Co (3 -24%), Cu (3 -6%),

balance Fe, plus trace elements such as Ti, Si, Zi. Different grades are obtained by
combing them in different strengths. They are formed by casting or sintering.
Properties. They can operate up to 600C. They are valued for their high temperature stability (0.02%/C).
Alnico is best in long pencil shaped magnet applications. Their energy product is limited to 10MGOe.
Their Br varies from 0.55 to 1.37 tesla. The also suffer from low resistance to demagnetization (HcB ~ 40-
150 kA/m). They also can leak significant flux. They are also very hard and brittle.

Table 3. Equivalent Grades of Alnico Magnets.

CHINA USA Europe Br, tesla
MMPA 0100- IEC 60404-8-121
LN10 0020 3
Alnico Alnico 9/3 0.65
LNG11 Alnico 1 Alnico 8/4 0.72
LNG13 Alnico 2 Alnico 12/6 0.7
LNGT18 Alnico 8 Alnico 17/9 0.58
LNG16 Alnico 4 0.8
LNG34 Alnico 5C 1.18
LNG37 Alnico 5C Alnico 37/5 1.18
LNG40 Alnico 5 1.22
LNG44 Alnico 5 Alnico 44/5 1.22
LNG52 Alnico 5 DG Alnico 52/6 1.25
LNG60 Alnico 5-7 1.3
LNGT28 Alnico 6 Alnico 26/6 1.05
LNGT32 Alnico 8 Alnico 38/11 0.8
LNGT38 Alnico 8 Alnico 38/11 0.82
LNGT44 Alnico 8 0.88
LNGT60 Alnico 8 Alnico 60/11 0.9
LNGT72 Alnico 9 1.05
LNGT36J Alnico 8 HC Alnico 36/15 0.7

Alnico Magnets were first developed for USA military in 1940’s. Datayo Magnet, Dexing Magnet offer
largest number of grades (32) Magnets from AIC Magnetics can operate up to 550C. Thomas Skinner,
Arnold Magnetic Technology and AIC Magnetics make Alnico magnets with highest Br of 1.37 T. USA,
Europe and China use different ways to name “standard” grades of Alnico. Table 7 lists equivalent grades.
But magnetic properties of same grade magnets differ with the manufacturer. So PMAG database lists
properties of each grade produced by each manufacturer.

20
MMPA, Standard Spec. of Permanent Magnet Materials, MMPA 0100-00, https://www.allianceorg.com/pdfs/MMPA_0100-00.pdf
21
IEC 60404-8-1, Magnetic Materials – Magnetically Hard Materials, https://webstore.iec.ch/preview/info_iec60404-8-
1%7Bed3.0%7Db.pdf
Page 25 of 29
 9. APPENDIX A. PMAG DATABASE FORMAT

9.1. Category Folders

PMAG Database groups all permanent magnets into 5 Category Folders, labeled AM
to EM. For example, AM Folder stores B(H) digital demagnetization curves of all
Neodymium Magnets type.

Table 1 shows these 5 category folders. Its Col. 3 lists the maximum energy product (in
MGOe) while rest list the number of firms, grades and demagnetization curves in each
folder. It shows that the PMAG database comprises nearly 5000 digital demagnetization
curves.

Example: Category AM Folder contains 3351 digital demagnetization curves. This data is
stored in 696 excel files, each file corresponding to a specific grade produced by 35 firms
worldwide.

These magnets operate over a wide temperature range of -40C to 550C. Neo magnets
can operate between -125C to 250C. The Samarium magnets can operate up to 550C,
but are expensive. The bonded magnets can withstand 180C. The weaker Alnico and
Ceramic magnets can go up to 520C and 400C respectively.

Table 4. Demagnetization Digital Curves in the PMAG Database (5111)

Folder Category Name MGOe Firms Grades Curves

AM Neodymium Magnets 55 35 696 3351

BM Samarium Cobalt Magnets 34 23 165 694
CM Bonded Molded Magnets 12 19 145 554
DM Ferrite Ceramic Magnets 4 18 126 430
EM Alnico Magnets 4 12 75 82
Total 62 1207 5111

9.2. Manufacturer Subfolders

Each Category Folder comprises several Manufacturer Subfolders. Its label refers to a
specific manufacturer. Example: ‘Hitachi’ subfolder contains data files of all the grades
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produced by Hitachi Metals Ltd. If a Manufacturer furnishes J(H) curves it is converted into B(H) curves using B = J -
µoH. PMAG stores all data with 8-decimal digits. But it displays only 3 decimal digits. One can use excel format to display more
digits if desired.

9.3. Grade Files

Each Manufacturer subfolder comprises several excel files, called Grade Files. The
name of a grade file is the name as given by the manufacturer. Each Grade File contains
the digital B(H) data at several temperatures.

Format of Grade Files

Fig. 14 shows the format of digital curve data in a Grade File. In each excel Grade File,

 Header Row 1 contains Grade and its manufacturers in col. 2 and 4.

 Header Row 2 contains the Data Labels,
 Header Row 3 lists their units. (H [kA/m], B [tesla].

Remaining rows stores the digital curve. A pair of columns defines a digital curve.

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Figure 14. Format of PMAG database. Header Row2 lists Data Labels. Header Row 3 lists Units. Within
o
the Data Label, BH denotes B(H) Data, 20C denotes data at 20 C. Data in green Zone refers to Safe
Operating Range. Operating a Magnet in this Range will protect it from degenerating to a lower grade
permanently.

Data Labels
The Data Label defines the Data Type and the temperature at which it is measured. It is
usually highlighted yellow and color coded red. Its format is:

BB TT C
where
BB = BH: B(H) Curve (H in the 1st column, B in the 2nd Column)
st nd
= JH: J(H) Curve (H in the 1 column, B in the 2 Column) - abandoned
TT = Temperature Numerals (e.g., 25, 100, …)
C = Temperature Units (o C)
Example: BH50C- B(H) Data at 50o C.

Data
It highlights Yield Flux Density point with 4 decimals. It shows Safe Operating Range of a
magnet in green color, i.e., the B(H) data above the Yield Flux Density. It also shows
unsafe operating range in red color, i.e., data below By. All data is equi-spaced at 0.05T.

DIGEST Files
Each Category Folder also contains a DIGEST file. It is a single searchable excel file
that lists several magnetic properties of all the grades (in a specific category) that are
produced by all manufacturers. For example, the DIGEST AM for Neo Magnet Folder AM
lists the magnetic properties of 1379 Neo magnet grades, out of which only 633 contain
temperature-dependent demagnetization curves.
In it, the 5 columns (A to D, L) contain magnet/manufacturer descriptors. These include
Manufacturer, Country, Material Category, Material Name (Grade) and Source) as shown
in Table 1.

Table 1. DIGEST File - Manufacturers, Grade, and Source

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The balance columns (E to K) contain 7 searchable magnetic properties listed below.
Table 5. DIGEST File – Discrete Properties of Magnets.

Column Symbol Property

E Tmax Maximum Service Temperature [oC]
F BHmax Maximum Energy Product [MGOe]
G Br Remnant Flux Density [T]
H HcB Normal Coercivity [kA/m]
I HcJ Intrinsic Coercivity [kA/m]
J ρ Resistivity [µΩ cm]
K  Density (gm/cm3)

With the DIGEST file, you can search or compare the magnetic properties of same grade
magnets from different manufacturers. You can also shortlist those magnets which can
withstand your specific service temperature.
The magnetic properties in the DIGEST refer to “typical” values, that too at room
temperature. In most machines, magnets operate between 50 to 150C. But the magnet
data (such as Br, HcB etc.) shown in the manufacturer’s tables (and in the DIGEST) is
valid only at room temperature! The temperature-dependent B(H) curves documented in
the PMAG database should be used in designing magnets that operate at higher
temperatures.
Due to batch tolerances, magnet properties of actual magnets you procure can vary.
Such variations depend on the grade and the manufacturer. For example some firms
offer magnets whose Br varies within 2 % tolerance band, while others produce them
within 5% tolerance band.

Free Magnet B(H) Data

The MagWeb website also furnishes 10 sample B(H) data files (2 from each of the 5
categories of magnets). You can review them to get a ‘feel ‘for the diverse capabilities of
the PMAG database.

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