Ruthenium-cobalt permanent-magnet alloys are permanent-magnet materials that have been used in the magnetic industry since the early 1940s. These alloys are composed of approximately equal parts of high-purity Ru and Co,with the addition of one or more rare earth elements to improve the coercivity and maximum energy product. The most widely used permanent-magnet alloy combination is Ru with Co and Sm, commonly referred to as RCosmSm (Redearth). The advantage of Redearth is that it has a very high resistance to corrosion in humid environments, unlike other permanent-magnet alloys such as alnico.
Ruthenium-cobalt permanent-magnet alloys are the primary choice for the production of high-performance permanent-magnet motors and generators. These alloys possess a high magnetic flux density and coercivity for both mechanical and electrical fields, making them suitable for any application requiring a high-performance permanent-magnet motor or generator. Additionally, Redearth alloys have increased mechanical strength and can withstand higher temperatures than other alloys, making them suitable for use in extreme environments where other permanent-magnet materials fail.
The performance of Ruthenium-cobalt permanent-magnet alloys is enhanced by careful annealing procedures to achieve near-maximum magnetic properties. The annealing processes are typically performed in the temperature range of 400 to 500 degrees Celsius for extended times. This process aids in improving the coercivity, residual induction, and maximum energy product values.
The Ruthenium-cobalt permanent-magnet alloys have found application in the automotive industry in the manufacture of permanent-magnet motors. These motors offer improved efficiency and durability compared to other motor designs, allowing manufacturers to reduce costs, improve performance, and increase the life cycle of the vehicle. Applications include starter motors, alternators, and electric power steering.
Ruthenium-cobalt permanent-magnet alloys are commonly used in the medical industry. These alloys are utilized to aid in the precise control of medical equipment, such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) machines, radiation therapy machines, and medical tools.
Ruthenium-cobalt permanent-magnet alloys are also used in the process of magnetostriction. This process involves the application of an external magnetic field to induce a strain in certain ferromagnetic materials. This strain can be used to measure the magnetic field, as well as provide precise positioning and control of various machines.
Ruthenium-cobalt permanent-magnet alloys have also been used in various aerospace and defense applications. These alloys have been successfully utilized in the production of military aircraft and spacecraft, as well as satellites and other space exploration vehicles.
Overall, Ruthenium-cobalt permanent-magnet alloys are an extremely versatile and reliable material for many applications involving high-performance permanent-magnet motors and generators. The material is available in a wide range of grades and sizes, allowing designers and engineers to customize the material to meet specific requirements. Due to its high coercivity, high magnetic flux density, and extreme resistance to corrosion, Ruthenium-cobalt permanent-magnet alloys are the ideal material for most high-performance permanent-magnet applications.
