Samarium-Cobalt Magnets

Samarium cobalt magnets (SmCo) are composed of samarium, cobalt and iron. These rare earth magnets are extremely strong for their small size and are the second-strongest type of permanent magnet made. Their max energy product is at least three times that of alnico 8 and at least five times that of ferrite. SmCo has higher temperature ratings and higher coercivity than neodymium. They are also highly corrosion resistant and do not require a coating.

Alnico magnets are manufactured using primarily two processes

Attributes of Samarium-Cobalt Magnets
  • More expensive than other materials

  • High Hc and Hci

  • High Bhmax

  • Can withstand high operating temperatures, up to 350°C.

  • Powerful for size

  • Corrosion resistant and do not require a coating

Samarium-Cobalt Magnet Applications

  • Traveling wave tubes

  • Computer rigid disc drives

  • DC motors – when temperature stability is required

  • Sensors

  • Linear applications

  • Various automotive applications

Samarium-Cobalt magnets are brittle, and prone to cracking and chipping. Allowing magnets to snap together will cause the magnets to shatter.

Samarium-Cobalt Price Sensitivity

Due to the Cobalt content used to manufacture these magnets, Samarium-Cobalt Magnets fluctuate in price more than other materials.

Grades of Samarium Cobalt

SmCo18, SmCo20, SmCo22, SmCo24, SmCo26, SmCo28, SmCo30, SmCo32