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Magnet advisor
The Magnet Specialist calculates how much holding force you need and selects the right magnets from our range.
0kg holding force per magnet
Suitable magnets
The stated holding force is measured under ideal conditions on a flat steel plate. The actual holding force is lower. Read how holding force is determined. This advice is a guideline: always test with one or two magnets before ordering a series. Is your application not listed? Contact us.
How much holding force do you need?
The Magnet Advisor calculates how much holding force per magnet you need, based on the weight, the number of magnets, the direction in which the weight pulls and the surface. Then it shows suitable neodymium magnets from our range, starting with the cheapest. The advice is a guideline: always test with one or two magnets before ordering a series.
The calculation is: weight divided by the number of magnets, multiplied by a margin, divided by a factor for the direction and a factor for the surface. The stated holding force is a laboratory value, measured on a flat, thick steel plate. Read how holding force is determined.
Guideline per application
| Application | Holding force per magnet | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Model making, electronics and small enclosures | up to a few kilos | Disc magnets |
| Cabinet doors, flaps, furniture making, camper and caravan | approx. 4 to 10 kg | Block magnets |
| Workshop, tools, moulds and heavier panels | approx. 10 to 25 kg | Block magnets, disc magnets |
| Industry and machine building | from approx. 25 kg | Pot magnets |
Frequently asked questions
How much holding force do I need for my application?
Divide the weight by the number of magnets and include a margin. If the weight pulls perpendicularly off the steel, the stated holding force is the starting point. If the weight can slide along the surface, for example tools on a steel wall, only a small part of the holding force often remains. Use the Magnet Advisor above to calculate this.
Why does a magnet hold less than the stated holding force?
The stated holding force is measured under ideal conditions: a flat, thick steel plate and direct contact. In practice, paint, rust, dirt, an air gap and thin sheet steel reduce the force. Read how holding force is determined.
What is the difference between pulling perpendicularly and sliding?
When pulling perpendicularly, you must pull the magnet off the steel. When sliding, the magnet slides along the surface. Sliding requires much less force, because only friction holds the magnet back.
How does the surface affect it?
Thick, clean, bare steel provides the best adhesion. Thin sheet steel, a layer of paint or powder coating, rust and an air gap reduce the force. If in doubt, choose a magnet with more holding force or use more magnets.
How many magnets do I need?
Distribute the weight over several magnets and place them spread out, so that the object does not tilt. The advisor calculates how much is needed per magnet.
Which shape is suitable for my application?
A disc magnet is round and versatile. A block magnet has a flat contact surface and fits well in slots and against flat surfaces. Read Which disc magnet do you choose? or Which block magnet do you choose?.
What do I need to know about the north pole and south pole with a countersunk hole?
For versions with a countersunk hole, it is stated which pole is on the recessed side. If two magnets need to attract each other, combine a north pole with a south pole variant. Read more in the guide for block magnets.
Is your application not listed? Contact us.