FAQ - Frequently Asked Questions

How strong is this magnet?

As an indication we add to the description of some magnets the approximate adhesive force in grams or kilograms. However, this is only a theoretical maximum value, which can only be obtained under ideal conditions. The actual adhesive force depends on the following factors:

Adhesive force diagram of article S-10-05-N

Distance between magnet and object:
If there is no direct contact between the magnet and the object, the adhesive force decreases quickly with increasing distance. Even a small gap of half a millimetre could cut the adhesive force in half. Also, a thin paint cover on the object contributes to a decrease in adhesive force as well.
With our new Adhesive Force Tool you can determine the adhesive force at various distances.

Material of object of magnetic attraction:
The theoretical adhesive force is valid when the object of magnetic attraction consists of pure soft iron. This value is reduced by about 5% when it comes to structural steel ST37 and approx. 30% with ST70.
Surface area of the object of magnetic attraction:
The smoother the surface, the greater the adhesive force. For rougher surfaces, you should anticipate a considerable reduction in adhesive force.
Direction of the force:
The theoretical adhesive force is valid if a vertical force applies, that is, if the object of magnetic attraction is pulled vertically by the magnet. See our FAQ about shear force
Thickness of the object of magnetic attraction:
The object should not be too thin or a magnetic saturation will be achieved and part of the magnetic field will remain useless.

In principle, when planning a specific application you should not rely on our adhesive force specifications, but rather do an experiment of your own first.

By the way: If you require the adhesive force in Newton, multiply our specifications in kg by 9,81 (a mass of 1 kg creates a downward force of 9,81 Newton).