D 10 x 6 mm SMCO Samarium Cobalt Disc Magnets

Facts About SMCO Magnets

• SMCO magnets are a type of “rare earth” magnet like neodymium.  They are made from two different elements and consequently have different physical properties to neodymium magnets. During the early 1970’s Samarium and Cobalt elements were first alloyed together to create the SMCO type magnet we use today.
• The name “Rare Earth Magnets” does not refer to their abundance, the term Rare Earth relates to a specific group of elements in the Periodic Table which lists all known elements in groups according to their similar chemical properties.
• There are two types of “Rare Earth Magnets” SMCO (Samarium-Cobalt) and Neodymium.    Neodymium are the magnetically stronger and cheaper of the two but are more susceptible to oxidation, this is why they are protected by Nickel plating.
• Unlike the Neodymium magnets SMCO are not plated but are much more resistant to oxidation, thus they do not corrode in damp conditions.
  They are also more resistant and maintain their magnetic attraction when heated and cooled.  However, they are extremely brittle and will shatter if not handled with care.
  Their application must be considered carefully as these magnets do not have the same durability as Neodymium or Ferrite magnets.
• SMCO magnets are many times more powerful than the better known Ferrite magnets, although less powerful than the equivalent size Neodymium magnet.
• The power of the attraction of a magnet also is related to the thickness of the Steel to which it is being attracted.    The thicker the steel the stronger the magnetic attraction!

Limitations and Safety

• SMCO magnets can be used in wet or humid conditions and at more extreme temperatures that Neodymium magnets.
• Never allow these magnets to “jump” together or “jump” to anything steel. They will probably shatter.
• SMCO magnets are by nature both HARD and EXTREMELY BRITTLE.  
• Extreme care must be taken when handling these magnets as there is a danger from trapped fingers, pinched skin and flying shards of metal if carelessly handled.  
• As with all powerful magnets of this type – eye and hand protection is recommended when handling them.
• Suitable for the temperature range of -250 to +250 degrees Centigrade. 
• These magnets are definitely NOT TOYS and are NOT suitable for use by children.
• Always keep magnets away from items that may be damaged by the magnetic field such as credit cards, computer drives, mobile phones etc.
• Not to be handled near or by people with Heart Pace Makers etc.