Samarium Cobalt Magnet
Samarium Cobalt (SmCo) magnet is a strong permanent magnet made of samarium, cobalt and other minor elements. It is known for its high magnetic strength and good temperature stability. The performance of SmCo magnets is generally close to that of rare earth neodymium magnets at room temperature. In extreme temperatures, such as high temperature and ultra-low temperature environments, SmCo magnets still operate reliably while neodymium magnets generally cannot work properly. Since SmCo magnets have strong resistance to corrosion and oxidation, coating is usually not required. It should be noted that SmCo magnets are made by sintering, they are very brittle and cracks may appear inside.
Sm1Co5
SmCo5 alloy is a combination of one samarium atom for every five cobalt atoms and is the first generation of SmCo magnets. The maximum magnetic energy product (BH)max of 1:5 type SmCo is in the range of 15 MGOe to 25 MGOe, and the operating temperature is up to 250℃. SmCo5 mainly contains Sm and Co, and does not contain iron. Therefore, compared with 2:17 type SmCo magnets, 1:5 type SmCo has better corrosion resistance and demagnetization resistance.
Sm2Co17
Compared with SmCo5, 2:17 type SmCo has better magnetic properties. Its (BH)max usually varies between 24 MGOe and 32 MGOe, and the operating temperature can reach 350℃. Sm2Co17 contains few other elements, such as iron and copper. The presence of iron in Sm2Co17 means that it may corrode slightly in a high humidity environment, so Sm2Co17 magnets are often surface treated, such as Ni plating and Zn plating.