Magnet Coatings
Nickel Coating
Nickel is the most commonly used coating for Neodymium or Rare Earth magnets. These magnets are coated with three layers: an initial layer of nickel, followed by copper, and finished with another nickel layer. This combination provides a smooth, shiny surface that offers moderate protection to the magnetic material inside. Nickel-coated magnets are ideal for indoor use, especially in applications requiring low friction or strong shear resistance. However, they do not provide long-term resistance to moisture or withstand marine environments.
Explore our range of Nickel coated magnets here
Epoxy Coating
Black epoxy coatings are highly resistant to moisture, humidity, and even submersion. However, epoxy can be prone to scratching, which may expose the nickel layer underneath, leading to premature rusting and corrosion. For this reason, epoxy-coated magnets are best suited for applications where they will remain in a fixed position. The glossy black finish is particularly popular in displays, outdoor signage, or any setting requiring long-term water exposure resistance.
Explore our range of Epoxy coated magnets here
Plastic Coating
With injection molding, magnets can be encased in plastic (ABS), creating a nearly unbreakable protective barrier between the magnet and the metal surface. This plastic layer prevents moisture from reaching the magnet, significantly extending its lifespan. However, the plastic coating is thick, which slightly reduces the magnet’s pull force due to the increased distance between surfaces. Plastic-coated magnets are ideal for applications where delicate surfaces need to be protected from scratching or chipping, and they excel in environments where moisture, abrasion, or impact are concerns.
Explore our range of Plastic coated magnets here
Painted Coating
Magnets with painted finishes are often seen in Alnico, Ceramic, and Samarium Cobalt varieties. Traditional red gloss paint is most commonly found on Alnico magnets, though Ceramic magnets are also sometimes painted to indicate their poles, which is particularly useful in educational settings.
Rubber Coating
Rubber-coated magnets offer enhanced grip by increasing surface friction without causing damage to the material they’re attached to. This makes them perfect for applications like hanging outdoor signs or mounting cameras and sensors. Rubber coatings also provide additional protection from corrosion, which is one of the leading causes of magnet failure.
The rubber layer not only shields the magnet from corrosion but also helps protect it from impact. Since Neodymium is naturally brittle, the rubber coating allows these magnets to withstand rougher handling than standard magnets.
Explore our range of Rubber coated magnets here
Stainless Steel Coating
Stainless steel-coated magnets are incredibly durable, designed to endure harsh environments. The stainless steel casing provides excellent protection against corrosion, making these magnets suitable for outdoor, marine, or extreme environments where nickel coatings may fail. The casing also shields the magnet from physical damage like chipping or cracking, and alters the magnetic field to create a stronger, single-sided hold.
