Question: Justin writes: I was wondering the method or type of tool used to cut .030″ thick magnet sheets? I have an art project and was wondering the best, most clean way to cut the sheet so that it leaves the smoothest edges possible. What do you use for cutting them? Thanks

Answer: Hello Justin. Thank you for the question.  There are a number of ways you can accomplish your goal.  We use special equipment which is designed specifically for use with magnetic sheet.  It is highly automated and developed to handle large volume production runs and may not be a feasible solution for you.  Instead, I think you would be better served by using one of two fairly simple methods. (more…)

Question: David Sharpe writes:  We have a flatbed printer and solvent printer and we are looking for the best magnetic product to use for Car Magnets. One of our clients just had some of the ones that we are using blow off of her car.

Answer: Unfortunately, this issue is not as uncommon as you would think, mostly because there are a number of possible contributing factors.  However, let’s start by addressing your question specifically.

When making magnetic car signs we first have to be concerned with the thickness of the magnetic sheet.  Its thickness is directly related to its strength (pounds of pull).  It has been universally accepted throughout our industry that the minimum acceptable thickness for automobile signs is .030”, also commonly referred to as 30mil.  Anything less than .030” may not provide the pounds of pull required to withstand the external forces an automobile sign is subjected to.
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We are often asked about shipping magnets by air, and thought we’d take a minute to write about it.  Adams Magnetic Products’ general policy is to ship all magnetized products using ground transportation.  When necessary, we can prepare magnets for air shipment with sufficient shielding to make sure they travel safely.

In order for magnets to be shipped by air: Flux measurements of all packages containing magnets must measure less than 0.00525 gauss 15 feet from the package.  When not packaged properly for air shipment purposes, magnets are considered “dangerous goods” and the International Air Transport Association’s (IATA) Dangerous Goods Regulations (DGR) must be followed.

Packaging magnetic materials for air shipment must be accomplished considering the above. Powerful magnetic components and assemblies need to be shielded so that magnetic fields will meet air shipment criteria.  We recommend that you consult your carrier for more information and guidelines.

An example of how magnetic fields can be contained is illustrated in the images below.

Unshielded Magnet

Shielded Magnet

Important: This post does not fully state the regulations. The information provided herein is intended to inform that FAA and IATA regulations exist and that they should be understood before shipping magnets by air.

Everyone knows that magnets are cool, fascinating and important to our every day life, but how much do you really know about them?  We ran accross this fun “Magnetic Attractions” quiz on the Mental Floss blog.  If you have an extra minute you should check it out!