Which magnetic hook do you choose? By holding force and design
A hook magnet is a neodymium pot magnet with a hook. You attach it to a steel surface and hang tools, cables, lamps or other objects from it. The steel pot concentrates the magnetic force on the flat front, making the holding force on steel much higher than that of the same magnet without a pot. Read more about the principle in Why are pot magnets so strong?
Step 1: choose the version
- Standard hook magnet: steel pot with NiCuNi coating, for dry indoor spaces such as workshops, warehouses and shops. This is the same pot magnet as the eye magnet of the same diameter, only with a hook instead of an eye. Hook magnet or eye magnet?
- Freely rotating hook: the hook rotates with the object, so it can always hang straight.
- Rubber hook magnet: the rubber coating protects the surface the magnet is attached to and provides grip, so it is less likely to slide.
Step 2: choose the holding force
The holding force in the table was measured under ideal conditions on a flat, thick steel plate. In practice, the actual holding force is lower due to rust, paint, an air gap or a thin surface. Furthermore, an object hanging from the hook pulls diagonally on the magnet, causing it to release sooner than with a perpendicular pulling force. On a vertical wall, a hook magnet holds only about 20% of its holding force: the sliding force, which is stated for every product. Therefore, choose generously. The holding force is not a permitted working load: do not use a magnet as the sole support for heavy loads where a fall could cause injury. Read how holding force is determined.
Quick selection
| Size | Holding force (approx.) | Suitable for |
|---|---|---|
| Ø10 and Ø13 mm | 3.5 to 5 kg | Keys, cables, light objects |
| Ø16 mm | 8 kg | Lightweight tools, displays |
| Ø20, Ø25 and Ø32 x 7 mm (swivel) | 13 to 18 kg | Tools, lamps, workshop |
| Ø43 and Ø66 mm rubber | 14 to 27 kg | Where grip and surface protection matter |
| Ø32 mm | 40 kg | Heavier tools in workshops and warehouses |
| Ø40 mm | 55 kg | Heavy objects on thick steel surfaces |
| Ø88 mm rubber | 55 kg | Heavy objects with rubber grip |
| Ø48 and Ø50 mm | 65 to 75 kg | Heavy objects on thick steel surfaces |
| Ø60 mm | 95 kg | Very heavy applications |
View the full range in the hook magnets. If you are looking for a magnet with an eye instead of a hook, look at the eye magnets.
Safe use
Magnets are not toys and should be kept out of reach of children. Keep strong magnets away from pacemakers, electronics and bank cards. Large hook magnets snap forcefully against steel; keep your fingers away.
Help with choosing
Unsure between two sizes? Use the Magnet Advisor or contact us.
