Ferrite (Ceramic) Magnets

Ferrite (ceramic) magnets are made from a mixture of iron oxide (Fe₂O₃) and barium or strontium carbonate. Thanks to their low raw material cost and natural corrosion resistance, they are among the most widely used permanent magnets in the world. Although not as strong as Neodymium or SmCo, they offer excellent stability, a low price and high durability; they are ideal for applications where cost and robustness come first.

The most widely used magnet

Ferrite makes up the great majority of the permanent magnets produced in the world. The reason is simple: its raw material is cheap and plentiful and it contains no rare earth elements, so its price is not affected by global supply fluctuations as much as neodymium's. If the strength requirement is moderate and there is no volume constraint, ferrite is often the most sensible choice.

Naturally rust-free

Ferrite is a ceramic; it is based on iron oxide and is already in an oxidized state. That is why it does not corrode in damp environments and needs no coating. Being usable uncoated in applications that involve outdoor, underwater and chemical contact is an important practical advantage.

Its limits

Its magnetic strength is markedly below that of neodymium; a larger magnet is needed for the same pull force. And because it is a ceramic, it is brittle: it cracks when dropped or squeezed and is not suitable for machining, although it can be ground.

Typical use

Loudspeaker systems, electric motors, magnetic holders, separation grids and low-cost separator rods. If separating coarse iron pieces is sufficient, using ferrite in a separator makes a considerable cost difference compared with neodymium. But where fine iron dust and weakly magnetic stainless fragments are concerned, neodymium is needed — this distinction is decisive in magnetic separator selection.