Magnets
Ceramic Magnets ( Ferrite )
Ceramic is rigid and brittle providing good magnetic performance very economically. Many standard sizes are available, including large blocks. It is magnetized parallel to the thickness, which is usually smaller than the other dimensions. Ceramic can only be cut or ground to size using diamond wheels before it is magnetized. Its natural color is black.
Alnico ( AlNiCo )
This Aluminum/Nickel/Cobalt combination is excellent for high temperature use, and is readily available in rods or bars. The direction of magnetization for Alnico is usually much longer than the other dimensions (parallel to the length) for best results. Close tolerances can be held by grinding to customer specifications. As cast material, it is gray to dark brown in color, but looks metallic when ground.
Rare Earth Magnets: Neodymium Magnets | Samarium Cobalt Magnet
Rare Earth Magnets are magnets composed of alloys of the Lanthanide group of elements. Neodymium and Samarium are the two Lanthanide elements that are most prevalent in the production of permanent magnets. Their distinguishing characteristic is their permanent magnetic capabilities, which are far more advanced than those of Ceramic and Alnico magnets.
The Rare Earth Magnets are comprised of two distinct materials - Neodymium Iron Boron magnets(NdFeB) and Samarium Cobalt magnets (SmCo). The Neodymium Iron Boron magnets (more commonly referred to as Neodymium magnets or "Neo" magnets) have been commercially available since the early to mid 1980's. Since this time, Neodymium magnets have revolutionized the magnet industry.
Neodymium (NdFeB) and Samarium Cobalt (SmCo) materials offer "incredible strength in a small package." Some high temperature and oxidation concerns exist. Parts are magnetized parallel to the thickness, which is usually the smallest dimension. Many standard sizes and grades (strength levels) are available. They can be machined to size before magnetization. Their natural color is gray.
 
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