Sintered rare-earth permanent magnets (REPMs), more specifically Neodymium-Iron-Boron (NdFeB) and Samarium-Cobalt (SmCo) varieties, are foundational to numerous modern technologies due to their unmatched magnetic strength. Their applications are widespread, from consumer electronics and medical devices like MRI machines to critical green technologies such as high efficiency motors in electric vehicles and generators in wind turbines. However, the extraordinary performance of these magnets is not simply a result of their chemical composition. It is critically dependent on achieving a precise and optimized microstructure, which is primarily developed through a powder metallurgy process.

Figure 1: REPMs can be found in a variety of consumer products, high-tech devices and critical green technologies

This manufacturing route involves several high temperature stages, most notably sintering and multi-stage heat treatments. Within this process, vacuum furnaces are a pivotal technology. They provide the stringently controlled atmospheric conditions essential for densification and for developing the specific microstructural features that give these advanced materials their exceptional magnetic properties. In this article, we will explore the critical functions of vacuum furnaces in the sintering and heat treatment of high performance NdFeB and SmCo magnets.

Powder metallurgy route for REPMs

阅读文章...