|
Have you ever wondered how magnets work? The answer can take you back to your high school days learning about physical science and chemistry. An ordinary nail wrapped in a copper wire can be charged with electricity and act as a magnet for a brief time thanks to the electrons and protons found within its molecules. But, how about stronger magnets; what keeps them from losing their electric charge? Strong magnets that do not lose their magnetism strength are made from a substance called ferrite powder. What Is It? Ferrites are chemicals found in nature that have a natural ability to stay magnetized and not diminish quickly over time. They are based from iron oxides and can be combined with nickel, barium carbonate, or strontium carbonate. Once charged, these magnets become hard and strong. This hard magnet can then be used in household items, such as refrigerator magnets. They are easy to make and they are cheap, which is why they are so common in everyday items. When combined, these elements actually can become stronger than iron itself in its ability to be magnetized. This makes them permanent magnets. Permanent magnets are used in credit card strips, automotive parts, and speaker systems, just to name a few. Everyday Magnets There are several items within your home that utilize magnets. Magnetic cores can be found within inductors, transformers, and electromagnets. One great example of a magnetic core is the one found in a computer cable that helps prevent high radio frequency interference. The refrigerator is an ordinary appliance that dominates in its use of magnets. The ferrite powder used within one helps keep the door closed, yet it does not trap anyone inside its doors. For instance, if a small child were to get inside a fridge, he would be able to open it from the inside. Hoosier Magnetics is the international leader in the production of hard ferrite powders. (http://hoosiermagnetics.com/)
Related Articles -
ferrite, powder,
| 
