Home, Shop & Industry Uses

Did you know there is still a significant market for quartz analog wristwatches, even in the era of smartwatches? Grand View Research estimated the global quartz watch market at about $15.3 billion in 2024, and its U.S. quartz estimate for the same year was about $2.1 billion. Analog watches (mechanical and quartz together) made up roughly 93% of U.S. watch revenue in 2024, according to the same firm. Estimates of the overall conventional watch market vary by firm, with one 2024 estimate at about $66.4 billion. Published 2024 estimates for the global smartwatch market range from roughly $37 billion to $46 billion, so conventional watches remain the larger market. Continue reading →

Interior design is undergoing a transformation with the introduction of magnetic paint, also known as magnetic primer or magnetic receptive paint. This type of paint contains ferrous particles or other magnetic material, giving surfaces the ability to attract and hold magnets. The result is a versatile and interactive space where magnets can be used to attach various items directly to the painted surface.  Continue reading →

From speakers to refrigerators, there are a variety of everyday items that rely on the unique power of magnets to function properly. While some examples are obvious, you may be left to wonder how they make such a profound impact on certain devices. This week, we are taking a closer look at the special role magnets have in some of the cleaning appliances around your home.  Continue reading →

Whether we realize it or not, we are surrounded by magnets. In Part 1 of this series, we looked at the uses of magnets in cleaning appliances such as vacuums, washing machines, and dryers. Now, we are shifting our focus to electronics and home entertainment. Keep reading to see the interesting ways these everyday items rely on the power of magnets to run efficiently.  Continue reading →

Across the globe, the war on solving environmental challenges in an eco-friendly way remains a high priority. This is especially true for innovators like Sara Andreotti, marine biologist and co-founder of SharkSafe Barriers, a nature-inspired, eco-friendly technology designed to protect people and sharks. Subject to a harsh stigma and severe overfishing worldwide, sharks undoubtedly rank as one of the most misunderstood species alive today. Setting their sights on tackling this critical problem, South African startup SharkSafe Barriers employs a uniquely brilliant green solution using the power of magnets, called SharkSafe Barriers. Continue reading →

The future of magnet technology utilized in MRI units is rapidly advancing with pioneering innovation from an Italian-based company, Paramed Medical Systems. Featuring an open-magnet configuration, Paramed has introduced an innovative superconducting material, intent on fostering patient comfort in a more sleek and economical scanner design.  Continue reading →

In October 2023, the Minerals Security Partnership (MSP) confirmed the news that HyProMag Ltd — the UK’s first rare earth magnet recycling pilot plant — will be developed further, selected as a key project to develop responsible critical mineral supply chains. Continue reading →

Cordless power tools, which utilize permanent magnets for strength and reliability, are indispensable for so many industries. Not only do they make DIY tasks more efficient, but with no cords (i.e., fewer tripping hazards), they can also be safer to use in industrial settings as well. Construction is one obvious industry where we can expect to see cordless power tools, but where else? Who else relies on cordless power tools? Continue reading →

If you’ve ever struggled to achieve precise cross cuts on your table saw, fret not. In this blog post, we’ll guide you through a simple yet effective method of setting up a temporary magnet stop block right on your table saw table. This technique ensures accuracy and repeatability, making your woodworking projects more efficient.  Continue reading →

At Apex, we love finding new magnet hacks to share with our wonderful customers. Today, we are excited to tell you about three unique ideas to help make things around the house easier. Be sure to check out some of our other favorite magnet hacks as well so you can dazzle your friends with your expertise!  Continue reading →

Small components can make a big difference in industrial equipment. Neodymium magnets deliver powerful magnetic performance in compact packages, helping engineers design products where space and weight matter. From motors to manufacturing equipment, these rare earth magnets support a wide range of applications. But strength is only part of the story. Choosing the right material, shape, and coating helps ensure...

Performed to combat the dangers of hardware disease in cattle, farmers across the country are turning to the power of magnets to keep their livestock safe. Although various types of farm animals are susceptible to this potentially life-threatening issue, cows are among the highest-risk population as they spend the majority of their time grazing pastures.  Continue reading →

Self-driving cars are touted as the future of transportation, with major players like Waymo and various car manufacturers investing billions into hands-free personal transportation. While the concept of autonomous vehicles may seem like a recent innovation, it actually dates back to the 1950s.  Continue reading →

In the complex and demanding world of the oil and gas industry, efficiency, safety, and reliability are paramount. One often-overlooked tool that plays a crucial role in this sector is magnets! We’re bringing you a comprehensive guide on how magnets are revolutionizing the industry and oil and gas. Continue reading →

If you own an Apple iPhone or iPad, odds are that your device has overheated and stopped functioning properly for a few minutes. This can be especially frustrating if you are using your phone for navigation while on a road trip or if your phone is attempting to charge. With all of the electronic parts so close together and the phone constantly processing data, it is easy to see why the devices overheat so frequently, but Apple has now patented a proposed heat-transfer system that relies in part on magnetic force. Continue reading →

In today’s fast-paced technological landscape, sensing solutions are critical across industries, from automotive to healthcare and beyond. Among the innovations driving this revolution are magnetic sensors, leveraging the remarkable properties of permanent magnets (e.g., neodymium and samarium-cobalt). These small but powerful magnets are transforming the way businesses perceive and interact with the world around them.  Continue reading →

From electric vehicles to trains, magnets are relied upon by several methods of transportation. Previously, we talked about China’s continued development of maglev trains, and their latest test just shattered records. Despite the success, the team behind it has bigger ideas in store.  Continue reading →

A permanent magnet may be the heart of a magnetic system, but sometimes the magnet alone is not enough. Magnetic assemblies combine one or more magnets with components such as steel housings, brackets, pole pieces, or other materials to create a more complete solution for a specific application. A properly designed assembly can offer advantages beyond simply choosing a larger...

In a world of technology and engineering, precision is often the key to success. Whether you’re designing a cutting-edge medical device, a high-precision measuring instrument, or a state-of-the-art robotics system, accuracy and reliability are paramount. One often-overlooked component that plays a crucial role in achieving this precision is magnets — permanent and electromagnetic.  Continue reading →

In the realm of refrigeration and cooling technologies, a quiet revolution is underway and it’s powered by permanent magnets. For over a century, traditional refrigeration systems have relied on vapor compression; however, the environmental concerns of the 21st century have sparked a search for more sustainable alternatives. Magnetic refrigeration, with its promise of reduced energy consumption and minimal environmental impact, is a promising contender.  Continue reading →

The worldwide pursuit of green and sustainable technology solutions has never been more critical than it is today. With the looming threat of climate change and environmental degradation, the need for innovative approaches to reduce our carbon footprints has become paramount. Permanent magnets, these small but mighty components, play a significant role in various eco-friendly technologies that will help drive a more sustainable future.  Continue reading →

You never know what you may uncover while magnet fishing. Whether you are fishing in the pond in your backyard or a popular body of water, you may pull up something with an incredible story behind it. Recently, a pair of magnet fishermen in the United Kingdom retrieved a cannon that may be up to 600 years old. The catch has military experts and excited fellow fishermen looking for more information. Continue reading →

You never know what you may uncover while magnet fishing. Whether you are fishing in the pond in your backyard or a popular body of water, you may pull up something with an incredible story behind it. Recently, a pair of magnet fishermen in the United Kingdom retrieved a cannon that may be up to 600 years old. The catch...

The thought of robots assisting in daily life seemed like a futuristic concept for quite some time. Over the past few years, however, there have been numerous advancements in robotics that could make this concept a reality. Scientists from MIT are finding success by creating robots that can be controlled by a magnetic field. Soon, these robots may be used to transport your packages, help with medical treatments, assist in navigating small spaces, and more.  Continue reading →