To get the best performance from a magnet, no matter its application, you should ensure it has the correct coatings.
Many different types of magnets, particularly neodymium magnets, are extremely hard yet brittle. They also contain elements that possess a high vulnerability to corrosion. For both these reasons, coatings are applied to quality magnets to prevent chipping, corrosion and damage.
Since corrosion can be a cause of total magnetic failure, selecting quality magnets with the right layer, and quantity, of coatings is critical to the success of your application.
What Do Magnets Usually Come Coated With?
The most standard magnet coating is a triple coat, involving two layers of nickel with a layer of copper in between. This is what you will get unless you specify otherwise.
There are many other options for coatings. Depending on what your magnet will be used for, you can request coatings of:
- Rubber
- Gold
- PTFE (polytetrafluorethylene)
- Epoxy
- Zinc
- Tin
- Titanium
- Everlube
- Chrome
- Phosphate passivation
- And many combinations of the above
In order for these coatings to be effective, the manufacturing process has to ensure the untreated magnet is completely free of moisture before any additional layers are added. If this is not done correctly, you could experience magnetic due to corrosion, and never see any warning signs of it as it would be concealed by a coating.
Magnet Coatings for Different Applications
You can request custom coatings specific to your usage, but many common coatings are considered standard for specific applications.
Some of the most common applications include:
- Gold plating for medical applications
- Rubber coated zinc in marine applications
- Chrome coating for all high-pressure/ friction applications
If you aren’t sure what kind of coating would be ideal for your use, contact our team for a knowledgeable recommendation.
Adhesives for Securing Magnets
Once you have selected the correct coatings for your application, you can decide how to secure your magnet to a non-magnetic surface. We recommend using quality adhesives to do so.
Prior to using adhesive, it is important to ensure you are working with the cleanest, most grease-free surface possible.
Araldite Rapid Adhesive
This reliable, fast-bonding adhesive is used on air crafts, in building bridges, and to assemble cars. It is a true professional adhesive that will bond virtually anything.
Locktite Industrial Strength Adhesive
This well-known brand name offers high performance adhesives that can help you address basically every bonding situation. It provides superior strength when bonding magnetic and non-magnetic materials, regardless of coatings.
Get Personalized Advice on Magnetic Coatings or Adhesives
If you are looking for more information, contact JobMaster Magnets today to discuss your application and your magnet needs. We are the largest magnet supplier in Canada, and offer you access to a full time with expertise in: design and engineering, manufacturing, fabrication, machining, and more, and are well equipped to make recommendations on your ideal coatings or adhesives
