Neodyimium Offers A Low Cost Yet Effective Alternative To Traditional Permanent Magnets

Neodymium rare earth magnets are known as the strongest magnets in the world, although they are a manufactured product, rather than a naturally occurring ore. Initially intended to be an economical replacement for more expensive permanent magnets, neodymium magnets have become common in a wide range of applications, from generators to cabinet closures. A more recent application, however, is in the field of magnetic therapy, as the intense magnetic properties are often credited with reducing pain and improving overall well being.

Neodymium rare earth magnets are a relatively new invention, with the discovery taking place in 1982. The term rare earth is misleading, however, as the material is actually an alloy consisting of neodymium, iron, and boron, all of which are both common and abundant. It is the abundance of the alloy materials combined with its high resistance to demagnetization that has made neodymium magnets an economical alternative to traditionally expensive permanent magnets and has further opened the door for use in a wide range of both industrial and commercial applications.


The use of neodymium rare earth magnets first became popular for use in generators. The basic design of generators includes an internal coil that is placed inside a magnet field, with the generation of electricity resulting when the coil is spun inside the field. Neodymium magnets have become especially preferred because of their powerful magnetic strength, which enables smaller magnets to be used in place of the typically large permanent magnets that had been commonly used in generators. The lifespan of neodymium magnets adds a further benefit, as the magnetic properties generally last around 10 years. However, the lifespan can be shortened considerably if magnets come into contact with water.

The ability to create small but powerful neodymium rare earth magnets also enables them to be used virtually anywhere a magnet is needed. This includes cabinet and purse closures, as well as in latches for jewelry and watches. They have even become popular in the automotive industry, as neodymium magnets can effectively remove metal shavings from the oil reserve by simply being placed in the oil pan.

Neodymium rare earth magnets have more recently gained popularity for use in magnetic healing therapies. Magnetic therapy in itself centers of the use of magnets to reduce pain and encourage the natural healing process of body, with the effectiveness often depending on the strength of the magnets. The strength of neodymium magnets have made them ideal for this form of therapy, both in spa treatments and through a number of products that can be purchased over the counter. Magnetic rings and bracelets are the most common therapy products, although insoles, bedding, and joint supports are becoming increasingly available. Pet products are also being made with the inclusion of neodymium rare earth magnets, with the most common items being sleeping pads and pet beds.


Neodymium rare earth magnets were initially developed to be an economical alternative to other, more costly types of permanent magnets, although the powerful strength and long life of the magnetic properties has led them to become popular for a wide range of other applications. Cabinet closures, jewelry latches, and automotive purposes have become common uses of neodymium magnets, with magnet healing therapy being a more modern application. The ability to create small magnets that maintain strong magnetic properties have added to the versatility of neodymium rare earth magnets, which had made them one of the best low-cost, effective, and extremely practical modern inventions to date.