Rare Earth Drilling Permanent Magnet Alloys
Rare earth drilling permanent magnet alloys are a type of permanent magnet material commonly used in a wide range of devices and tools. The alloys are comprised of rare earth elements such as neodymium, iron, cobalt, and boron which, when combined in the right atomic proportions, create a powerful and durable magnet material. The alloys are capable of sustaining their magnetization indefinitely under normal conditions and temperatures, making them popularly used in equipment requiring lasting power and efficiency.
These permanent magnet alloys offer distinct advantages over traditional ferrite or ceramic magnet materials. The most notable advantage of rare-earth magnets compared to those made from iron or steel is their greater strength. The properties of rare earth elements which grant them this added strength and performance include higher coercivity, greater remanence and a greater number of coercivity and remanence cycles. In other words, rare earth alloys are able to remain magnetized for considerable lengths of time and to withstand high levels of vibration or shock without losing their force.
One of the most common applications for rare earth alloys is found in the form of drill bits. Drill bits made from rare earth alloys have a very high oxidation resistance and long tool life, making them more durable than traditional bits which break easily, especially when drilling metal. A big benefit to using these alloys is that drilling speed is increased because of the high resistance to oxidation and friction.
The alloys are also used in automotive components, such as the starter and alternator motors, where they provide better efficiency than conventional magnets. Because of their durability, magnetic field shields and sensors used in medical imaging equipment are often made from rare earth alloys. They are also used in sensors which detect magnetic fields, as well as in electrical generators.
Though rare earth alloys offer many advantages, they do have some drawbacks. The alloys aren’t always easily machined, and they can be difficult to shape. Additionally, as these alloys can become magnetized, they must be kept away from sensitive electronics and data storage devices. Furthermore, some rare earths are increasingly difficult to source in large quantities, leading to price increases, so the costs of producing components and tools with these alloys can be high. Despite their drawbacks, the alloys remain a popular choice for many tools, components and devices due to their superior properties and performance.
