A magnetic assembly incorporates magnet alloy and non-magnet material. Magnet alloy is very hard and even simple features are difficult to incorporate into the alloy. Mounting and application specific features are easily incorporated into the non-magnetic materials which usually form the hosing or magnetic circuit element. The non-magnet elements will also buffer the brittle magnet material from mechanical stress and increase the over-all magnetic strength of the magnet alloy.
Magnetic assemblies typically have higher magnet force when compared to a magnet by itself because the flux conducting elements(steel) of the assembly are often times an integral part of the magnetic circuit. These elements, by the use of magnetic induction, will enhance the assembly’s field and focus it to the region of interest. This technique works best when using the magnetic assembly in direct contact with the work-piece. Even small gaps can dramatically impact the magnetic force. These gaps can be an actual air-gap or any coating or debris which stands the assembly off the work-piece.
