Common Applications Of Alnico Magnets

Alnico magnets were the first mass produced permanent magnets replacing magnetised metals and expensive electromagnets in many everyday applications. Alnico magnets maintained their position as the magnet of choice until the development of much stronger rare-earth magnets such as neodymium magnets in the 1980s.

DID YOU KNOW? Alnico magnets are a common favourite in speakers, guitar pick-ups and microphones as they are known for producing a rich warm overdrive sound.

An advantage of Alnico magnets is that they can conduct electricity, making them perfect for the following applications:

Electric motors

Alnico alloys have special properties of the hysteresis curve that allow the magnet to be installed in electric motors and generators.  They are also a lot cheaper and are a good alternative to the more expensive electromagnets.

Sensors

Alnico magnets are suitable for Reed Switch applications that require a high service temperature. Reed switches are commonly used in sensors. An example of this is in a security alarm that is triggered when a door is opened.

Guitar pick ups

Electric guitar pickup consists of a permanent magnet wrapped in coils of wire.  Alnico-magnet pickups are also renowned for producing a smooth, warm and highly musical tone.

Microphones

Alnico magnets are used in microphones as they are known for producing rich vintage tones that some refer to as ‘Alnico tone’.

Speakers

Alnico magnets were the first of its kind to be used in speakers in the 50’s and 60’s. The Alnico alloys were used to conduct electricity within the speaker. Alnico is known for producing warmer tones, which are ideal for the music of its era.  

DID YOU KNOW? During World War II Alnico magnets were used widely in military electronic applications.

As well as being a great conductor, Alnico magnets are also resistance to corrosion and are also very popular due to their exceptional stability to operate at high temperatures, making them suitable for the following applications:

Engineering applications- Lifting, holding, separating and moving are the simplest of tasks for permanent magnets but their influence in an engineering capacity extends far beyond their basic function. Intelligently applied, permanent magnet applications can improve product line efficiency, reduce costs, increase accuracy and provide you with a competitive advantage.

Travelling wave tubes- A travelling wave tube is a specialised vacuum tube that is used in electronics to amplify radio frequency signals. Alnico magnets are used to focus the electrons into a beam and ensure the electricity passes through the tube, maintaining performance under high temperatures.

Heat treatment jigs- Due to their ability to perform under high temperatures Alnico magnets are commonly used within metal work, whether it is holding sheets of metal together for welding, or for handling and lifting steel.

Aerospace applications- Alnico magnets can be found performing critical functions inside and outside aircraft, and even at ground control, racking up thousands of air miles every day. Common applications include rotor assemblies for generators and motors, positioning and speed sensors, fluid flow and fuel pump sensors, radar installations and even the seats your passengers will sit on.

Military applications- Alnico magnets were created in the 1930’s, which meant they were originally used in a lot of military electronic applications. Such as tracking systems, radars and electric motors. 

DID YOU KNOW? Alnico magnets have been used for over 100 years to teach children about magnetism.

Alnico magnets tend to be low costing and have a good magnetic property, which make them commonly used in the following application: 

Educational applications

The iconic, red-painted horseshoe magnet is something we all recognise and love. These magnets have been used to teach us about magnetism for years. We offer a wide range of Alnico magnets to teach a variety of age ranges about magnetism. Children must always be supervised when using magnets. 

Even though Alnico magnets aren’t the leading favourite due to its rival magnet family, just remember that they can be a cheaper alternative in your applications. If you’ve purchased from our Alnico magnet range and used them in one of your application’s, we would love to hear from you! If you could send any pictures to sales@first4magnets.com we would be very grateful. We shall even feature your application on our website.