Does “magnetic steel” refer to permanent magnets?

Is a magnet the same as a permanent magnet? This question confuses many people, as they often have a vague understanding of the concept.

Does “magnetic steel” refer to permanent magnets?

Yes. The term “magnetic steel” has a broader meaning and simply refers to permanent magnets, traditionally known as “magnetic stones.” However, when people use the term “magnetic steel,” they sometimes have specific references in mind, such as referring to neodymium iron boron as “magnetic steel” or calling the magnets in an electric motor “motor magnetic steel.”

What magnetic materials does “magnetic steel” include?

Magnetic steel includes injection-molded magnets, ferrites, bonded neodymium-iron-boron, samarium-cobalt, aluminum-nickel-cobalt, and sintered neodymium-iron-boron, among others. When referring to magnetic steel, it is best to include a prefix, such as “sintered neodymium-iron-boron magnetic steel” or “ferrite magnetic steel,” to ensure clarity.

Which type of magnetic steel has better performance metrics?

Currently, rare earth cobalt and neodymium iron boron magnetic steel both exhibit outstanding performance metrics across various metrics. However, the specific choice depends on the actual application scenario of the product; the most suitable option is the best.

What is the temperature resistance of magnetic steel?

The temperature resistance of magnetic steel primarily depends on its material composition rather than its volume. In brushless motors, neodymium-iron-boron magnets typically use four grades of material: M, H, SH, and UH. Among these, M-grade material can withstand temperatures up to 100°C and is the preferred choice for electric vehicle motors; H-grade material can withstand temperatures up to 120°C; SH-grade material can withstand temperatures up to 150°C; and UH-grade material can withstand temperatures up to 180°C.