Protecting NdFeB Magnets from collision damage. 2

[marktarp]

I am trying to introduce my children to the wonders of magnets, and have purchased a few from the internet. I am looking for an inexpensive but effective way to lessen the chance of damage caused by collision between the magnets. I’ve tried Plasti-dip, and am considering electrical tape (both ideas from the distributor). My set of magnets range from N38’s-N42’s, and all are Ni-Cu-Ni coated. This is not my area of expertise, and any help you could provide would be much appreciated.

 

[MagMike]

Hello marktarp,

I'm happy to hear you are introducing your children to magnetism. I used to give demonstrations at local elementary schools, to hopefully spark some interest in the field. I also used NdFeB magnets, but small ones, so the kids didn't hurt themselves when the magnets slam together.

I'd suggest masking tape, wrapping the magnets in many layers.

You might also buy a padded shipping envelope, larger than the magnet and fold it over a few times.

Good luck!
Mike

 

[EdStainless]

Use weaker magnets.
I use Alnico magnets for starters. After the kids get a feel for what happens, and why then we do a few activitive with RE magnets.
I still have fragments of RE magnet in my hand 16 year later. They are unforgiving.

= = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = =
Rust never sleeps
Neither should your protection

http://www.trent-tube.com/contact/Tech_Assist.cfm

 

[marktarp]

Thank you both for the replies.

It’s funny you mentioned the Alnico magnets, as I was out shopping for some cow magnets before I read your post. I had one as a kid (I found it on my uncle’s farm), and I’ve never recovered from my magnetic addiction. Initially that first cow magnet was just an interesting toy to me, but eventually I became interested in how and why it worked, and this is the experience I hope to transfer to my kids, so I appreciate the encouragement.

I will try the masking tape, and also make sure the kids (and I) wear gloves and eye protection when I do allow them to handle the NdFeB magnets. My wife is also unforgiving, at least when it comes to damaging her children.

 

[EdStainless]

I love cow magnets (yes, they are put inside of cows stomachs to catch debris and prevent 'hardware disease').
We used to make them by the ton, literally.

= = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = =
Rust never sleeps
Neither should your protection

http://www.trent-tube.com/contact/Tech_Assist.cfm