A neodymium magnet or NIB magnet is a
powerful magnet made of a combination of neodymium,
iron, and boron. They have replaced weaker and
significantly more heat-resistant samarium-cobalt
magnets in most applications, due to their lower cost.
They are very strong in comparison to their mass, but
are mechanically fragile and the most powerful grades
lose their magnetism at temperatures above 176 degrees.
Neodymium magnets are graded in strength from N24 to the
strongest N54 (magnetic energy product). The neodymium
magnet industry is continually working to push the
maximum energy product closer to the theoretical maximum
of 64 MGOe. Scientists are also working hard to improve
the maximum operating temperature for any given
strength.
Neodymium magnets should always be handled carefully. Some that are slightly larger than the size of a penny are powerful enough to lift over 10 kilograms. Larger neodymium magnets can severely pinch skin or fingers, or even break bones when suddenly attracted to a magnetic object. Operating a large neodymium magnet close to smaller magnetic objects and larger magnetic surfaces can be dangerous if the person is caught between the magnet and the magnetic object or surface. Neodymium magnets are made with special powders and coatings, so they are very fragile. They are often plated with a metal such as nickel.
Neodymium magnets are usually known as super magnets, rare earth magnets neodymium, neodymium electrical generator, strongest magnets, world's strongest magnets, neo magnets, and supermagnets