The Ultimate Guide to Different Types of Magnets and Their Uses

Magnets are materials that emit magnetic fields that either attract or repel ferromagnetic materials such as iron, nickel, and cobalt. Today, they have also been adopted for modern use in areas like industry, electronics, medicine, energy, and everyday life. Based on the origin of magnetism, magnets can be classified as permanent, temporary, electromagnets, superconducting magnets, and natural magnets. This article focuses on the various properties, shapes, and applications of permanent magnets, hence acting as an extensive guide on the uses of magnets.

Permanent Magnets

Permanent magnets are the backbone of modern industry and technology. They maintain their magnetism for extended periods without the need for external energy. They possess high coercivity and remanence, and can be designed into a variety of shapes, including round, block, arc, ring, and horseshoe, depending on their intended use.

Round Magnets

Round magnets are among the most common shapes for permanent magnets due to their symmetrical magnetic field distribution and ease of mounting. In principle, the magnetic lines of the field for a circular magnet emanate from the north pole, arch outward, and around the edge into the south pole in a closed-loop configuration. Hence, the field is appropriate for applications where a uniform field is necessary, such as sensors, speakers, and magnetic mounts. Round magnets come in an extensive range of sizes, from millimeter sizes for microelectronic devices to large disks for industrial applications.

*Round magnet-related products

NdFeB round magnets
Ferrite round magnets
Samarium cobalt round magnets
Alnico round magnets

Block magnets

In a block magnet, the magnetic flux lines emerge from the north pole, travel in an arc-shaped path around the sides, and enter the south pole, closing the circuit. Its enormous magnetic field area and high holding force make a block magnet ideal for use in applications that call for extensive coverage, including stationary industrial magnets, magnetic separators, and linear motors.

*Block magnet-related products

NdFeB block magnets
Ferrite block magnets
Samarium cobalt block magnets
Alnico block magnets

Arc magnets

The magnetic flux distribution within an arc magnet follows its direction of magnetization, either radial or axial. In a radially magnetized arc magnet, the magnetic flux lines extend from the inner arc surface to the outer arc surface, closing in along an arc-shaped path. Arc magnets are designed exclusively for rotating machinery. The arc shape accommodates the circular structure of motors or generators and provides a directional magnetic field. Thus, they have found widespread use in electric vehicles, wind turbines, and industrial motors.

*Arc magnet-related products

NdFeB arc magnets
Ferrite arc magnets
Samarium cobalt arc magnets

Ring magnets

Ring magnets have a magnetic flux distribution that starts from one plane, passes around the outer edge and the center hole, and enters another plane, forming a closed loop. These magnets are suitable for speakers, magnetic couplers, and magnetic levitation devices.

*Ring magnet-related products

NdFeB ring magnets
Ferrite ring magnets
Samarium cobalt ring magnets

Countersunk magnets

The magnetic field distribution of a countersunk magnet is similar to that of a round or block magnet, only with the presence of the countersunk hole. In the case of axially magnetized countersunk magnets, the lines of magnetic flux emanate from one face, traverse around the edge and through the countersunk hole, then enter into the opposite face, thereby closing the magnetic circuit. A countersunk magnet is designed to be attached by a screw and has a facially convenient surface for affixing. The principal applications are found in furniture and construction, as well as in mechanical mounting.

*Countersunk magnet-related products

NdFeB Countersunk Magnets

Horseshoe Magnets

A horseshoe magnet’s magnetic flux lines emanate from the north pole and travel directly across a short air gap to the south pole, forming a tight, closed loop. This type of magnet has traditional applications in teaching experiments and in small fixture magnets.

*Horseshoe Magnets Related Products

NdFeB Horseshoe Magnets
Alnico Horseshoe Magnets

Temporary Magnets

Research on temporary magnets in the 19th century improved knowledge about electromagnetism and laid the basis for present-day power systems. Usually manufactured from soft iron or materials of low coercivity, temporary magnets are magnetized only when an external magnetic field is present. Typical uses include iron cores in electric bells, which serve as the core of a transformer magnetically and act in a relay mechanism by quickly switching in response to energy conversion. Temporary magnets have outstandingly controllable magnetic properties, low cost, and manufacturing simplicity; therefore, they are widely used in electrical devices that require transient magnetic fields.

Electromagnets

An electromagnet is the same device as an electric motor, which comes from Faraday and Henry’s groundbreaking experiments on electromagnetic induction. Its magnitude and direction are absolutely dependent on the current flowing through it. Some of the uses of this technology are magnetic lifting for industrial cranes, high-speed maglev trains, and the use of electromagnetic control in magnetic resonance imaging. Benefits include the use of magnetic fields as well as the interchangeability, changeable strength, and a variety of applications.

Superconducting magnets

Superconducting magnets use superconducting alloys in which zero electrical resistance is achieved when cooled, usually using liquid helium near absolute zero (-273°C). This allows for the creation of extremely high magnetic fields, which are much more powerful than typical magnets. They are also used in MRI machines for high-resolution imaging, high-energy physics research in particle accelerators, and highly efficient propulsion in maglev trains. Besides the extremely high magnetic field strength and high energy efficiency, superconducting magnets also support the most advanced modern technology applications.

Permanent magnet manufacturer

TOPMAG is the industry leader in the field of high-quality magnets for specific demand. The permanent magnets are produced in various kinds, including round shape, block shape, arc shape, ring shape, countersunk shape, and horseshoe magnet shape. Contact us today to learn how our advanced magnetic solutions can enhance your projects and drive your success!

Ethan Huang

I'm dedicated to popular science writing about magnets. My articles mainly focus on their principles, applications, and industry anecdotes. Our goal is to provide readers with valuable information, helping everyone better understand the charm and significance of magnets. At the same time, we're eager to hear your opinions on magnet-related needs. Feel free to follow and engage with us as we explore the endless possibilities of magnets together!

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