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    Diamond or CBN: Which Wheel Do I Need for Magnet Manufacturing?

    Updated: February 26, 2024 Published: June 28, 2023

    Diamond and CBN (cubic boron nitride) wheels play a crucial role in magnet manufacturing processes. These wheels are used for various applications, including shaping, grinding, and polishing, to achieve the desired dimensions, surface quality, and magnetic performance of magnets. Let’s explore how diamond and CBN wheels are used in magnet manufacturing:

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    CBN (cubic boron nitride) wheels are primarily used for manufacturing magnets that primarily consist of ferromagnetic materials such as steel and iron. Magnets made from these materials are often referred to as ferromagnetic magnets. Two common types of ferromagnetic magnets are:

    Alnico Magnets: Alnico magnets are composed of aluminum, nickel, cobalt, and iron, with small amounts of other elements. These magnets have excellent temperature stability and high magnetic strength. Alnico magnets are widely used in various applications, including electric motors, sensors, and loudspeakers. When machining or grinding Alnico magnets, CBN wheels are commonly used due to their excellent thermal resistance and ability to handle the hardness of the material.

    Hard Ferrite Magnets: Hard ferrite magnets, also known as ceramic magnets, are made from iron oxide and barium or strontium carbonate. They are inexpensive, relatively strong, and have good resistance to demagnetization. Hard ferrite magnets find applications in industries such as automotive, electronics, and consumer goods. CBN wheels are often used in the manufacturing processes of hard ferrite magnets due to their ability to handle the hardness and abrasive nature of these materials.

    CBN wheels offer several advantages for machining and grinding ferromagnetic magnets. They have exceptional thermal resistance, enabling them to withstand the heat generated during the manufacturing process. Additionally, CBN wheels exhibit high cutting efficiency and excellent longevity, making them suitable for high-volume production environments.

    Diamond wheels are typically used for shaping NdFeB (neodymium-iron-boron) magnets. NdFeB magnets are known for their exceptional hardness and brittleness, requiring abrasive tools with high cutting efficiency. Diamond wheels, with their superior hardness and abrasive properties, are well-suited for shaping and grinding NdFeB magnets effectively.

    Diamond wheels contain synthetic diamond particles bonded to the wheel’s surface using various bonding materials. The diamond particles provide the cutting action required to shape and remove material from the magnet. Due to the hardness of NdFeB magnets, diamond wheels can withstand the high forces and abrasion involved in the shaping process.

    When using diamond wheels for shaping NdFeB magnets, it’s important to select the appropriate wheel specification based on the specific magnet dimensions, desired shape, and surface finish requirements. Factors such as wheel grit size, concentration, and bond type should be considered to achieve optimal cutting efficiency and desired results.

    It’s worth noting that while diamond wheels are commonly used for shaping NdFeB magnets, the choice of wheel may also depend on other factors such as the size and complexity of the magnet, production volume, and the specific machining setup. Consulting with diamond wheel manufacturers or experts experienced in NdFeB magnet machining can provide further guidance on selecting the most suitable diamond wheel for your shaping needs.

    However, it’s important to note that the specific choice of wheel may still depend on factors such as the magnet’s size, shape, and desired surface finish. It is always recommended to consult with a wheel manufacturer to determine the most appropriate wheel type and specifications for specific magnet manufacturing processes.

     
     

     
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    Whether you are looking for general guidance or are ready to get a quote, we are dedicated to helping you find the right solution – and if we can’t provide the exact wheel you need, we will let you know. We hope you’ll explore the ways our team can help your business stay ahead of the competition.