Magnetic, mechanical and environmental properties of NdFeB magnets-a user's view

Sintered NdFeB magnets show some promise in comparison with SmCo alloys particularly in terms of room temperature energy product and mechanical properties. Commercial availability is now such that they are worth considering for high performance machines. Therefore a programme of evaluation has begun to establish the properties of proprietary NdFeB magnets (and variability), and to some extent relate them to microstructure and composition, to aid design through a better understanding of magnet behaviour. Properties evaluated include: room and elevated temperature magnetic behaviour; resistivity; physical and mechanical properties; environmental stability.<>