Flexible Magnet

Two categories of flexible magnets are made in different ways:
Magnetic sheets and extruded magnetic profiles.

Extruded magnetic profiles and tapes
Flexible magnets can be extruded into profiles that can be coiled, typically in 33 or 98-foot (10 or 30 m) rolls, and then used for applications such as shower doors or refrigerator closures. The cross-section of an extruded magnetic profile can have detailed protrusions that allow it to slide into a mating aluminum extrusion and remain captive with only the front magnetized edge showing.
During manufacturing, the flexible, granular material is heated until it starts to melt. Then, it is forced under high pressure using a screw feed through a hardened die which has been electrical discharge machining (EDM) wire eroded to have the desired shape of the finished profile. As material continually flows from the die, it cools and then passes over a magnetizing fixture which magnetizes the strip with either a two-pole or multi-pole magnetic configuration.
Most flexible magnets are magnetized with stripes of magnetic poles on one face only. The other face is not magnetic. The extruded profile can be a rectangular section to produce a magnetic strip, often referred to as magnetic tape, and this can be laminated on the non-magnetized face with high-performance double-sided adhesive tape. Two identical strips can be magnetized with mating polarities so that when they attract each other, they line up and meet exactly.

Flexible magnetic sheets
Magnetic sheets are produced using a calendering process; most tend to be 24 inches (610mm) wide with a length of up to 98 feet (30 m). The thickness of flexible magnetic sheets usually ranges from 0.02 to 0.03 inches (0.5 to 0.76mm). Flexible sheets are often used for point of sale and advertising, particularly for cars. Taxis and driving school livery can be added and removed when the car is used privately.
In these applications, meticulous cleaning and flat storage are essential to prevent ferrous particles from getting attracted to the magnetic surface of the sign and then becoming trapped between the sign and the car. Good housekeeping will maintain the car's paintwork.

The following are some of the benefits of using flexible magnet:

Durability and strength
Flexible magnet can withstand tough environmental conditions, whether in constant sunlight or extreme cold, without losing their magnetic properties. Additionally, they have high tensile strength, making them sturdy, flexible, and perfect for long-lasting applications.

Affordability
Comparatively, flexible magnet are more affordable than other custom magnets or magnetic products such as neodymium magnets or samarium cobalt magnets. This makes them a cost-effective alternative material for numerous industries that use magnetic applications.

Versatility
With their flexibility and ease of customization, flexible magnet can be used in a wide range of applications. They can be used for designing point-of-purchase displays, car magnets, and refrigerator magnets, and in the automotive industry for producing gaskets, signs, and nameplates, among others.

Flexible magnets have become integral to our daily lives, finding applications in various industries and household items. From refrigerator magnets to industrial signage, these versatile materials offer the convenience of customisation and adaptability.

Caring for flexible magnets
● Avoid harsh chemicals: Harsh chemicals can deteriorate the magnetic properties and coating of flexible magnets. Refrain from using solvents, acetone, or other aggressive cleaning agents.
● Gentle handling: Handle flexible magnets with care to prevent creasing or bending. Sharp edges and rough surfaces can damage the material, affecting its flexibility and magnetic strength.

Storing flexible magnets
● Flat and rolled storage: Flexible magnets can be stored flat or rolled depending on their size. Rolling them with the magnetic side out can help maintain their flexibility and prevent permanent deformation.
● Avoid stacking: Do not stack heavy items on top of flexible magnets, as this may cause them to deform or lose their magnetic strength over time.
● Temperature and humidity: Store flexible magnets in a dry, cool environment. Excessive heat and humidity can adversely affect their magnetic properties.

Applying flexible magnets
● Clean surfaces before application: Ensure that the surface where you intend to apply the flexible magnet is clean and free from dust, grease, or other contaminants. A clean surface promotes better adhesion.
● Smooth application: Apply the flexible magnet smoothly, avoiding wrinkles or air bubbles between the magnet and the surface. A smooth application ensures optimal contact, maximising magnetic strength.
● Allow for adhesion time: Allow sufficient time for the flexible magnet to adhere to the surface before subjecting it to any external forces. This allows the magnet to bond securely.
● Customisation and cutting: If necessary, cut the flexible magnet with sharp scissors or a utility knife. Ensure that the cutting process does not compromise the integrity of the material.

Cleaning flexible magnets
● To guard against moisture and dirt build-up between the magnet and the metal surface (particularly on outdoor applications), remove the magnet at regular intervals. Clean both the magnet and the metal surface with mild detergent; wipe with a soft cloth or allow to air-dry. (for vehicle-mounted signs, remove and clean daily.) after waxing and polishing, allow 2 days for the wax to cure before applying magnets.

Flexible magnets have become a popular alternative to traditional, rigid magnets. They are flexible. You can bend flexible magnets without breaking them. Even when bent or otherwise deformed, they will continue to produce a magnetic field while subsequently attracting ferromagnetic materials like iron and cobalt.

Typically made of ferric oxide with a binder
Most flexible magnets are made of ferric oxide with a binder. Ferric oxide, of course, is one of several iron oxides. It exhibits magnetic properties that make it ideal for use in magnets, including ceramic magnets and flexible magnets. Most flexible magnets consist of a mixture of ferric oxide and a resin-based binder. The binder is designed to hold the ferric oxide particles together, whereas the ferric oxide produces the magnetic field.

Available in sheets and rolls
When shopping for flexible magnets, you may come across sheets and rolls. Sheets are square- or rectangular-shaped flexible magnets, whereas rolls are cylindrical rolls of flexible magnets. Regardless, both sheets and rolls are flexible, and they both produce a magnetic field.
If you're going to buy flexible magnets, you'll need to choose between sheets and rolls. Sheets are precut, making them simple and easy to use. Rolls, on the other hand, require cutting. But you can cut rolls in custom lengths for your desired application.

Durable and long-lasting
You can rest assured knowing that flexible magnets are durable and long-lasting. They don't contain any oils. Rather, most flexible magnets only contain ferric oxide with a binder. With their simple construction, they will last a long time. You can use them indoors or outdoors without fear of them degrading. Whether you choose sheets or rolls, flexible magnets will last a long time — all while producing a consistent and reliable magnetic field.

Commonly used for signs
While they support dozens of applications, flexible magnets are commonly used for signs. You can make signs out of flexible magnets. One side of flexible magnets features the ferric oxide material. The other side features a plain backing on which you can write or print signage. And with their flexible properties, flexible magnets will stick to any ferromagnetic surface.

Can be cut and drilled
Unlike rigid magnets, flexible magnets can be cut and drilled. Cutting or drilling into a rigid magnet may break it. The rigid magnet may split open, or it may shatter into many different pieces. This isn't a concern with flexible magnets. Flexible magnets are safe to cut and drill.