FAQ
A diametrically magnetised magnet is a type of magnet which has the magnetic poles (north and south), located on opposite sides of the magnet's diameter. In contrast, an axially magnetised Disc or Block magnet has its north and south poles on the larger flat faces of the magnet.
In a diametrically magnetised cylindrical or ring magnet, the north and south poles are positioned on the curved sides, around the circumference. This means if you look at the magnet from the top or bottom, the magnetic field lines run horizontally from one side to the other across the diameter. The magnetic field of a diametrically magnetised magnet forms a loop around the curved surface, creating a unique magnetic field distribution. The field is strongest around the sides of the magnet rather than at the ends. So, imagine a cylindrical magnet - if it is diametrically magnetised, the north pole is on one side of the cylinder's circumference, and the south pole is on the opposite side of the circumference.
The difference between axially magnetised and diametrically magnetised neodymium magnets lies in the orientation of their magnetic poles. Disc, cylinder and ring magnets are most commonly magnetised along their geometric axis. That is, the north and south poles are located on the flat, circular faces. This means these neodymium magnets are axially magnetised, because the magnetisation direction is along the axis of the magnet.
An axially magnetised neodymium magnet will tend to stick with one of the flat faces touching another magnetic surface. You can still attacj the magnet to a ferrous surface on its side, but it won't be as strong this way.
A diametrically magnetised magnet, on the other hand, is magnetised across its diameter. The north and south poles are located on the curved edge surface, at opposite sides of the neodymium magnet. The magnetic field lines run horizontally across the diameter of the magnet, from one side to the other. Diametrically magnetised magnets are often disc, cylindrical or ring shaped neodymium magnets. The main difference between axially and diametrically magnetised magnets is the orientation of their magnetic poles, which affects the direction of their magnetic fields and their suitability for various applications.
Diametric neodymium magnets, with their unique magnetic orientation, are used in various specialised applications where their specific magnetic field distribution has some important advantages. Some common uses of diametric neodymium magnets are in rotary sensors, used to detect rotational position or speed. The benefit of using a diametric neodymium magnet in this application is that the changing magnetic field as the magnet rotates provides accurate measurement data.
Diametric neodymium magnets are also useful as educational and demonstration tools. You'll find them in educational kits to demonstrate magnetic fields and principles of magnetism. The orientation of the poles gives a clear visualisation of magnetic field interactions and behaviours. Diametric neodymium magnets are used in applications that benefit from their unique magnetic field orientation.
Diametrically magnetised magnets work by having their magnetic poles (north and south) located on opposite sides of the magnet's diameter, rather than on the flat faces as in axially magnetized magnets. This unique orientation of the magnetic poles affects how the magnetic field is distributed around the magnet and how it interacts with other magnetic fields and materials.
In a diametrically magnetised magnet, the magnetic field lines emerge from the north pole on one side of the magnet's circumference. This creates a horizontal magnetic field across the diameter of the magnet.
When placed near other magnets or magnetic materials, the magnetic field lines of a diametric neodymium magnet will interact horizontally rather than vertically. This unique field orientation can be useful in applications requiring rotational motion or sensing.
There are a lot of benefits from diametrically magnetised neodymium magnets. The magnetic field is consistent and predictable during rotation, making it ideal for some vertical aligned sensors and Reed switch devices. Diametric neodymium magnets also deliver precise control and precision.
Diametrically magnetised neodymium magnets are often lower in attractive magnetic force because the curved nature of the pole area provides less contact surface to bond with ferrous or magnetic materials. The factors mainly contributing to the strength of diametric neodymium magnets is their material composition. Neodymium magnets are made from an alloy of neodymium, iron, and boron (NdFeB), which gives them their high magnetic strength. The strength of neodymium magnets is usually indicated by their grade, such as N35, N42, N52, etc. Higher numbers indicate stronger magnets.
The size and shape the neodymium magnet is also a factor in their strength. Larger and thicker magnets generally have a stronger magnetic field than smaller, thinner ones, given the same grade. The shape, whether disc, ring or cylinder, can also influence the magnetic field distribution, but the overall strength is primarily a factor of the material and grade.
Despite their strong magnetic properties, neodymium magnets are brittle and can break if mishandled. They are often coated to prevent corrosion, which can impact their longevity and performance.
Diametrically magnetised neodymium magnets are usually smaller in size and therefore often lower in pull force strength than most other axially magnetised products. Their magnetic strength is primarily determined by their Neodymium magnetic material composition and grade. The unique orientation of their magnetic field provides advantages in specific applications like rotary sensors and magnetic couplings.