Magnetic Assemblies & Devices

Home > Magnetic Assemblies & Devices > Electromagnets


Request a Quote
Overstock Check
Product Data Sheets

An electromagnet is a kind of magnet whose magnetic field is created by the flow of electric current. The magnetic field disappears when the current stops. Electromagnets offer the advantages of controlled holding power and on command release. Through the application of controlled DC electrical current, an electromagnet has the ability to attract and hold ferrous materials with varying degrees of force, and to release the item as required.


Why Adams?

Adams supplies electromagnets in a variety of sizes, shapes and current strengths to meet your end-use requirements. Our technical sales team will work with you to determine what type of electromagnet will best suit your purpose.

Adams' electromagnets are available in flat-faced round and rectangle form or bi-polar rectangle.


What to Know

There are several factors to evaluate when selecting the electromagnet to best suit your needs.


Applications

The strength, ability and versatility of electromagnets have rapidly evolved over the past few decades. Electromagnets are a significant element in several industrial processes, and have played a leading role in the development of the assembly line in modern factories. Electromagnets are used in many electric device applications, including:

  • Electric bells
  • Industrial lifting magnets
  • Loudspeakers
  • Magnetic locks
  • Magnetic recording and data storage equipment
  • Magnetic separation of materials
  • Motors and generators
  • Relays


Electromagnets

Round and Rectangular Flat-Faced Electromagnets


Round and Rectangular Flat-Faced Electromagnets are available in a variety of sizes. Flat-Faced magnets should only be used on flat, smooth material where the entire magnet face is in contact. They can be used in manually operated or automated applications.

  • Magnets listed utilize 12 volt D.C. current (24VDC and 110VDC are available by request).
  • Standard Leads are 24"
  • Dimensions are in inches
  • Pounds pull ratings are maximum on low carbon steel at magnetic saturation.
  • Contact us at 800-747-7543 if you don't see what you're looking for in this brief listing.



Round Electromagnets
Item# Diameter Height Thread Depth Thread Location of Leads Watts Pull lbs Wt
70A0003 0.75 1.25 0.375 10-32 0.187 1.5 10 1.7 oz
70A0008 1 0.718 0.375 10-32 0.125 1 10 1.9 oz
70A0004 1 1.25 0.375 10-32 0.187 4.5 20 2.6 oz
70A0005 1.25 1.25 0.375 1/4-20 0.25 3.5 40 4.2 oz
70A0006 1.75 1.625 0.5 1/4-20 0.375 3 160 11 oz
70A0007 2 1.625 0.5 1/4-20 0.25 5.2 220 1 lb
70A0022 3 2 0.5 (2) 1/4-20 0.625 12 500 3.25 lb

Rectangular Electromagnets
Item# Width Length Height Mount Thread Depth Thread Location of Leads Watts Pull lbs Wt
70A0001 1.5 2.5 1.25 1 0.375 10-32 .750/.500 5 200 1 lb
70A0002 2.5 2.5 1.5 0.75 0.5 1/4-20 1.75/.375 8 450 2 lb
70A0013 2.5 4.5 2 2 0.5 1/4-20 1.50/.750 12 750 5 lb
70A0011 4 8 2.5 4 0.75 3/8-16 1.25/1.25 42 2000 16 lb


Small Bi-Polar Electro Magnets - 12VDC (24 VDC & 110 VDC Optional)

The magnetic field of bi-polar electromagnets has a greater "reach" than that of flat-faced electromagnets. Subsequently, they perform better than equivalent flat-face magnets when operating through an air gap or any type of non-magnetic material between the work piece and the electromagnet. Bi-polars, due to their extended poles, are designed to handle round parts, parts with uneven surfaces, and odd shaped parts. Contoured, auxiliary pole shoes can be added for better contact with the work piece.



Item# Width Length Height Mount Thread Depth & Length Location of Leads Watts Pull Lbs WT
70A0054 15/16 1-5/8 1-5/8 7/8 10-32 X 15/16 7/16 1/4 5 25 8 oz
70A0015 1-11/16 2 1-13/16 7/8 10-32 X 15/16 1 5/16 6.5 80 1 lb
70A0012 1-1/2 3-1/2 2-5/8 2-1/4 1/4-20 X 3/8 deep 3/4 5/8 12 360 2 lbs
70A0055 2-3/8 4-1/8 3-7/8 2-1/2 3/8-16 X 1/2 deep 1-3/16 1-1/8 15 440 6 lbs
70A0056 2-7/8 5-5/8 4 3-1/2 3/8-16 X 1/2 deep 1-7/16 1-1/8 22 650 11 lbs
70A0057 4-1/8 7-5/8 4-3/4 5 1/2-13 X 1 deep 2-1/16 1-1/8 35 1100 25 lbs


Effect of an Air Gap

An Air Gap can be the result of the actual distance from the work piece, or a gap created by a non-ferrous material. The chart below compares the effect of an air gap on a flat-faced electromagnet compared to a similar size bi-polar electromagnet.


Flat-Faced Bi-Polar
Size 4" x 8" x 2-1/2" high 4" x 7-5/8" x 4-3/4" high
Face Area 30 sq. in 32 sq. in
Pole Area 15 sq. in 15 sq. in
Wattage 42 35
Holding Power 2000 lb 1100 lb
Through 1/32" air gap 200 lb 480 lb
Through 1/16" air gap 95 lb 250 lb
Through 1/8" air gap 35 lb 70 lb
Through 3/16 " air gap 0 lb 9 lb


Power Sources

Electromagnets require direct current power in order to generate a magnetic field. Typically the applied voltage is Direct Current (DC), but in some cases Alternating Current (AC) can be used. Variable power sources and remote control are available. Smaller magnets can operate on 12 volts DC; larger magnets may require 115 or 220 VDC. A rectifier is required to release the electromagnet from the surface on which it is applied. The rectifier can be mounted on the magnet, and be operated by remote control.

Whether used in manual or automated handling of ferrous parts, they must release the work as readily as they attract and hold. Release is a function of the rectifier and not the magnet. Most rectifiers incorporate a provision for reverse current that ensures positive release of even those alloy steels which are magnetically retentive. Variable power and remote control are available.

Adams does not stock rectifiers but offers them through special order. Please inquire for your requirements. Another method of obtaining direct current for magnet operation is through use of 12 volt batteries