Lifting a Neodymium Magnet with Magnetic Forces

[Joe Shmoe]

Hello, I am in a school group attempting to create a model of the "turbolift" from Star Trek (NERD ALERT!, i know) using magnetic forces. My group has already worked out the x and z axis of movement, but we are having trouble figuring out just how strong of a force we will need to lift, if we even can. We have 2 1"x1"x1" N50 rated neodymium magents available, along with a power supply and several different metals (not soft iron however).

http://www.frenergy.com.au/index.php?act=viewinfo&docId=4"

The above calculator is helpful in calculating the amount of gauss at a given point, but really we need to calculate how strong of an electromagnet we could need to lift a 1"x1"x1" N50 rated neodymium magent a decent (but realistic) height. We have most of the school year to create this project, so we have time to order parts, etc.

Thanks for your help!
-RADS

 

[Vailanor]

Unfortunately, it is difficult to calculate the exact force needed to lift a 1"x1"x1" N50 rated neodymium magnet since there are a lot of variables that can affect the strength of the magnetic field. Factors such as the size and shape of the magnet, the distance between the two magnets, and the type of material in between them will all affect the strength of the magnetic field. Additionally, the power supply you have available will also play a role in the overall strength of the magnet. The best way to figure out the exact force needed to lift a specific magnet is to experiment with different setups and measure the output force with a force gauge. This will allow you to adjust the power supply until you get the desired force output. You may also need to adjust the shape and size of the magnets or the material between them to achieve the desired output force.

 

[astrokreng]

Hello RADS,

It's great to see that you are exploring the use of magnetic forces in creating a model of the "turbolift" from Star Trek. I would like to offer some insights and suggestions to help you in your project.

Firstly, it is important to understand that the strength of a magnetic force depends on a few factors, such as the distance between the magnets, the orientation of the magnets, and the magnetic properties of the materials involved. In your case, the strength of the magnetic force will depend on the distance between the neodymium magnets and the metal objects you are using, as well as the orientation of the magnets.

To lift a 1"x1"x1" N50 rated neodymium magnet, you will need a strong enough magnetic force to overcome the force of gravity acting on the magnet. The exact force required will depend on the weight of the magnet, which can be calculated using its density and volume. Once you have the weight of the magnet, you can use the formula F = mg, where F is the force required to lift the magnet, m is the mass of the magnet, and g is the acceleration due to gravity (9.8 m/s^2).

To generate a strong enough magnetic force, you can use an electromagnet. An electromagnet is created by passing an electric current through a coil of wire, which produces a magnetic field. The strength of the magnetic field can be increased by increasing the number of turns in the coil, the current flowing through the coil, or by using a ferromagnetic core such as iron.

You can use the calculator provided in the link you shared to estimate the strength of the magnetic field required to lift the neodymium magnet. However, keep in mind that this is just an estimate and the actual strength of the magnetic field will depend on the factors mentioned earlier.

I would also recommend experimenting with different configurations and materials to find the most efficient and effective way to lift the magnet. You can also consider using multiple electromagnets to increase the strength of the magnetic force.

I hope this helps you in your project. Best of luck!