From lifting heavy materials to welding, there's a lot of precision, time, and resources that go into a construction project. Even the smallest mistakes can be expensive and potentially dangerous. By implementing magnets, you can decrease costs, improve accuracy, and add an extra layer of safety in construction projects. Neodymium and samarium cobalt magnets are extremely useful in the construction industry. Neodymium magnets have a high coercivity and temperature stability, meaning they can be applied in high-speed processes. Samarium-cobalt magnets are ideal for fluid applications because of their corrosion resistance.

Industrial Magnets for Construction 

1. Hook Magnets: Lifting Heavy Materials 

Because hook magnets are capable of holding anywhere from twelve pounds to 200 pounds, they are ideal when you need to hold and/or lift heavy materials. They can be used to hang movable industrial lighting, hang aisle chains, display wayfinding and safety signs, and even hang coats on a magnetic surface.  Additionally, they can also withstand cold temperatures — they actually gain strength in colder temperatures up until about -216.4°F. This means that if there are fluctuations in temperature throughout a construction project, hook magnets will maintain their strength. 

2. Block Magnets: Magnetic Sweepers 

In construction zones, there are often loose hardware, scrap iron, metal shavings, nails, screws, and other ferrous materials that can cause personal injury or damage to expensive equipment. To instill additional safety and avoid costly repairs, you can use a magnetic sweeper. They can pick up metal debris, which can be hard to see and reach at times. They also work regardless of the temperature, weather, or terrain.  To create a magnetic sweeper, you can mount large block magnets, such as 2’’ x 1 x 1’’ (depending on the application) or a custom block magnet onto a wooden plank and attach two wheels on both ends. 

3. Carabiner Hook Magnets: Window Washing 

In order for construction workers to hold themselves up along the face of a building, they typically use a hanging platform and a safety catch that involves a carabiner. There’s a non-magnetic carabiner that’s attached onto construction workers, but you could also use a magnetic carabiner hook to haul the platform and lower it back down safely.  In this particular application, you would need to use a carabiner hook magnet with a strong pull. You can order a custom carabiner hook magnet with a stronger pull, or if you need one with a smaller pull force, you can use a 30-pound carabiner hook magnet. 

4. Block or Cube Magnets: Welding 

Magnets are very important in welding and the process of fusion because they help adhere metal surfaces at various angles. Welding block and cube magnets can be used to create inside and outside corners as they hold a metal tube or sheet at the desired position. You can order custom block or cube magnets depending on the application and type of welding magnet needed (on/off switch, arrow, or adjustable). Typically, welding magnets are made of Alnico, neodymium, or samarium-cobalt, which gives them properties to work in many applications. They work best in a safe, hands-free environment where they can meet a high-level of accuracy.

5. Shuttering Magnets: Pouring Concrete

You must use tools that are sturdy enough to keep materials in place while also having flexibility to move them. Because of their sturdiness, shuttering magnets are ideal for holding steel panels, beams, fences, or concrete. If you need to pour concrete or keep poles in place, you can use a shuttering magnet with a provision to easily remove the magnet when you’re done.  Shuttering magnets are reliable and will save time and money. They have a high holding power, don’t require electricity to operate, and can be reused. Because the size and strength of the shuttering magnet depend on the particular application, you can order a custom magnet to best fit your needs. 

Contact Apex Magnets For Your Next Construction Project

In a high stakes environment, magnets can be incredibly useful to improve accuracy, precision, and safety while reducing time. At Apex Magnets, we sell a variety of permanent magnets that are reliable and durable for construction projects.  Because construction project needs vary, meaning the magnet pull, shape, and size depend on the project, custom magnets are an ideal solution. You can fill out our online custom magnet request form, and we’ll provide you with a free quote within 1-2 business days. If you have any questions about our permanent or custom magnets, don’t hesitate to contact us at 1.304.257.1193.