What are SmCo magnets?
We often get questions about the different magnet types, so here is a brief explanation of what SmCo magnets are.
What are SmCo magnets made of?
SmCo magnets are made from the metals Samarium and Cobalt. They are incredibly strong and can withstand temperatures up to 350°C as well as extreme cold (the most accurate description in relation to cold is a few degrees Kelvin above absolute zero).
How strong are SmCo magnets?
This type of magnet is strong, in fact as strong as neodymium magnets. So the advantage of SmCo magnets must be found in their temperature tolerance, which is higher than ordinary neodymium magnets, and that they are close to stainless due to the composition of the material.
Advantages and disadvantages of SmCo
There can be several reasons to choose SmCo over neodymium or ferrite.
SmCo vs. neodymium (NdFeB): The magnetism is very comparable, but with SmCo you get a magnet that can withstand both higher and lower temperatures. In addition, it is more rust-resistant. And you will therefore be able to use a SmCo magnet outdoors, in setups with high heat impact (welding and working with furnaces) and for many other industrial purposes. However, SmCo is slightly more fragile to impact and pressure than NdFeB. And they are much more expensive than neodymium.
SmCo vs. ferrite: SmCo is much stronger than ferrite (easily 10 times stronger or more depending on the size), and so the SmCo magnets can withstand approx. 100°C more than ferrite magnets. You will be able to use both magnets outdoors and when exposed to fluctuating temperatures. However, a SmCo will be more fragile against impact and pressure than ferrite, as a ferrite magnet can be used better despite damage such as e.g. that a tab has fallen off or it is broken. And then they are much more expensive than ferrite.
Why are they so expensive? It is quite simple: they consist, among other things, of of cobalt, which is a very expensive material.
You must therefore weigh up the advantages and disadvantages of the different magnet types when you need to find out whether SmCo is the right magnet type for your project - especially due to the very large price difference compared to other magnet types.
Therefore, SmCo magnets are often used for very special purposes, primarily within industry or science.
Should we help you with your project?
We would very much like to guide you in choosing the type of magnet. So let us finally hear from you with a project description, and then we will get back to you quickly with advice and guidance on choosing a magnet type and possibly also size and strength.