Info about ferrite magnets
What is ferrite? Ferrite is a type of magnet. To explain what ferrite magnets are without getting too technical, you could say that ferrite magnets are the "little brother" of neodymium magnets. Therefore, it is obvious to make a comparison with neodymium magnets and magnetic foil when you have to explain what ferrite magnets are and can do. Because a magnet is not just a magnet. It has a purpose, and to give you the most information about what to choose for your project, it requires a list of advantages and disadvantages compared to other magnet types.
Briefly in point form about ferrite:
- They are cheap magnets
- Their magnetic field is not that strong
- They withstand higher temperatures
- They are stainless
- They can be used outside
- They can be used without coating
- Difficult to swallow (for children and animals)
The last thing point may seem like strange information, but it is actually important, because if you have to use magnets around children and animals, then it must be supervised. And should the damage occur, ferrite magnets are not as dangerous to swallow as neodymium. But let's make it clear once and for all:
Magnets are not toys. And magnets must not be swallowed!
Strength and strength loss
Ferrite magnets are approx. 9 times weaker than neodymium magnets if you take two magnets of the same size and compare them.
In theory, magnets never lose their strength. But after approx. 100 years, you can measure a deterioration of the magnetism. However, factors other than time can demagnetize a ferrite magnet: strong heat, repeated blows and the influence of a stronger magnet (e.g. neodymium or electromagnetism).
Nothing happens to a ferrite magnet if it is struck. a small tab off. And it takes a lot to break a ferrite magnet compared to a neodymium magnet.
Working temperature and storage
-40°C to 250°C
Ferrite magnets withstand large temperature fluctuations compared to other magnet types. However, it is always a good idea to store magnets at room temperature when not in use. The magnetic field is also not that strong, but if you have the opportunity to wrap them up or store them away in a drawer until you need to use them again, then you are sure that they are shielded from impacts or other influences that can demagnetize them.
Raw magnets
It is very rare to give ferrite magnets a surface (also called coating). This is due, among other things, to 2 things: it causes a small loss of strength, and the coating is often more expensive than the magnet itself. It therefore does not make much sense to give them a surface. In addition, they can withstand a small chip being knocked off them without the magnetic field being affected. That is why we do not have coated ferrite magnets here in the webshop. However, it is possible to buy ferrite magnets as pot magnets, where the magnets are placed in a small metal sheath. But the market for ferrite pot magnets is not that big at the time of writing.
Do not use ferrite magnets on clothes or surfaces that are bright or delicate. As they are raw (i.e. without coating), they can leave dark gray marks.
Outdoor use
As we have briefly touched on above, the ferrite magnets are resistant to rust. And that makes them particularly suitable for use outdoors. However, always check the magnets once in a while for possible loss of strength, as wind and weather can be harsh in Denmark.
Electronic influence
Even if the magnetic field on ferrite magnets is weak, you should still use your common sense and keep them at a safe distance from electronic devices, including in particular hearing aids and pacemakers. There's no need to take any chances!
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