Permanent magnets & maximum force

In summary, the theoretical maximum force for a permanent magnet is difficult to calculate without specific details of the system. It can be estimated by analyzing the hysteresis curve, but the calculation would still be dependent on the geometry and not entirely accurate. However, there is an upper limit for all materials and theoretical analyses have shown that Inductrack systems can levitate up to 40 metric tons per square meter of Halbach array, with a 50-to-1 ratio of levitated weight to magnet weight. Actual tests at GA have achieved a levitation force of 30 metric tons per square meter, which is close to the theoretical maximum.
  • #1
Thrice
258
0
What's the theoretical maximum force? At a certain distance & per kg, i guess. How would you go about calculating this?
 
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  • #2
Very difficult to calculate without some microscopic details of the system.

If you had a hysteresis curve for the material you could calculate the field strength nearby the magnet roughly, but it'd still be geometry dependent and probably not that accuracte to the real system.
 
  • #3
But is there an upper limit for all materials? I was under the impression there's a limit to how strong (per unit mass or something) permanent magnets can get. I'll try track down the link.
 
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  • #4
Theoretical analyses show that, if required by the application, Inductrack systems can be designed to levitate more than 40 metric tons per square meter of Halbach array, with up to 50-to-1 ratio of levitated weight of a train car to magnet weight. These levitation forces are close to the theoretical maximum that can be exerted by permanent magnets. Actual values achieved in a test run at GA are about 30 metric tons per square meter, in close agreement with the theoretically predicted levitation force for the configuration that was tested.
Source: http://www.llnl.gov/str/November03/Post.html
 
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What are permanent magnets and how do they work?

Permanent magnets are materials that have a magnetic field that stays constant over time. They work by aligning the magnetic domains within the material, creating a strong magnetic field.

What determines the maximum force of a permanent magnet?

The maximum force of a permanent magnet is determined by the strength of its magnetic field, which is influenced by factors such as the material it is made of, its shape, and its size.

Can the maximum force of a permanent magnet be increased?

Yes, the maximum force of a permanent magnet can be increased by using materials with stronger magnetic properties, increasing the size or shape of the magnet, or by combining multiple magnets to create a stronger magnetic field.

What are some common uses for permanent magnets?

Permanent magnets have a wide range of uses, including in electric motors, generators, speakers, hard drives, and magnetic separators. They are also commonly used in everyday items such as refrigerator magnets, magnetic jewelry, and magnetic toys.

Are there any limitations to the maximum force of a permanent magnet?

Yes, there are limitations to the maximum force of a permanent magnet. These include the material's magnetic properties, the size and shape of the magnet, and the distance between the magnet and the object it is attracting or repelling. Additionally, extreme temperatures and external magnetic fields can also affect the maximum force of a permanent magnet.

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