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Tuesday, September 16, 2014

Electromagnet Vs. Permanent Magnet

The importance of magnets cannot be overstated. Our understanding of magnetism is tied to the development of electricity. As such, the study of magnetism is often taken under the science of electricity. Magnets are fundamental components in electronics and other technologies that today's world largely depends on.

In the machining industry, magnetic tools are an integral part of various processes. These tools are used for clamping down and lifting materials. These are also used for workplace maintenance such as cleaning of metal shavings. For these applications, an owner, manager or purchasing agent often has to choose between permanent magnets and electromagnet tools. Both variety of magnetic tools have different advantages and limitations.

Permanent Magnet


Permanents magnets are made of magnetized materials that allow it to have a persistent magnetic field. These are generally priced less compared to their electromagnet counterparts. Permanent magnet tools also requires little to no operational and maintenance cost.

The downside to permanent magnetic tools is that their magnetic strength cannot be conveniently adjusted. Changing the magnetic strength often means changing the permanent magnet within the tool.

Electromagnet

Electromagnets are types of magnets that are able to produce a magnetic field using electric current. The  amount of electric current affects the magnetic strength. Electromagnetic tools are priced higher and also have higher operational cost due to electricity requirement.

The advantage of electromagnets is that the magnetic strength can be easily adjusted according to what is needed by manipulating the supplied electric current.

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