A magnetic coupling is made up of two integral parts — a driver (connected to the prime motor) and a follower. These pieces could also be referred to as input and output shafts. The former transfers torque to the latter using magnetism vs. a physical connection. This arrangement allows for physical separation between the two shafts. It’s most often used in magnetic drive pumps, liquid pumps, mine motors, conveyor belt motors, propeller systems, and kiln elevators. Continue reading →
Noveon Magnets Inc., a startup in Texas, is on the brink of changing the way we see decarbonization, and they say recycling rare earth magnets is the key. In addition to helping with the country’s efforts to decarbonize, Noveon is focused on the geopolitical and supply chain risks associated with rare earth magnets, hoping to lessen our dependence on China's rare earth metals. Scott Dunn, Noveon’s co-founder and chief executive said, “We don’t want China to just deliver us our quality of living and not have control of our destiny.” Continue reading →
Scientists say there’s a potential new approach to magnet manufacturing that may help Europe and the West lessen (or even eliminate) their reliance on China and its rare earth elements. Ultimately, the desired result of this scientific discovery would be the transition to a net-zero carbon economy. Continue reading →
According to Science Direct, “Magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) are a class of nanomaterials composed of metals such as cobalt, nickel, and iron, with paramagnetic, ferromagnetic, or superparamagnetic properties.” MNPs are being used in more and more biological and medical applications — “nanomedicine” — from therapeutic treatments and magnetic targeting to cardiovascular imaging, tissue engineering, targeted drug delivery, and disease detection. Continue reading →
One of the first concepts you will learn about in relation to magnets is their poles. We know that lining up the south and north poles will cause your magnets to attract, while lining up two of the same poles will lead to repulsion. The north pole also seeks the North Pole of the Earth when it is free to...
In California’s Central Valley, electromagnetic imaging systems are being used to scan the ground below for the best locations to store excess water in times of severe drought. These giant magnets, which are larger than the aircraft carrying them and appear as if they crash landed from another planet, are allowing researchers to see 1,500 feet beneath the surface of...
Rare earth permanent magnets are commonly used to make electric motors. High-performance permanent magnets make it so the motor structure doesn’t require a special electrical excitation system. Ultimately, this means the motor has more power and efficiency, uses less energy, and is much smaller in size — in other words, a micro motor. Continue reading →
Have you ever heard of California’s Mountain Pass Mine? This American town started out as a bit of a disappointment, but ended up being highly attractive to miners. It all began in the 1940s when prospectors went looking for uranium. Continue reading →
You never know what you’ll find when you go magnet fishing. Some go in search of treasure, others do it to make a positive impact in the community, and others go to say they gave it a try. Recently, a father-son duo made an incredible discovery while magnet fishing in England that helped bring closure to a robbery victim from 2000. Let’s see how magnets made this discovery possible. Continue reading →
Magnet users of all experience levels have likely heard of magnetic force and magnetic fields. While these phrases are used quite often, many might not be aware of the difference between them. Today, we are taking a look at the basics of both concepts. Continue reading →