Neodymium magnets: what they are, where they are used and where to buy them in Baku
A neodymium magnet (also known as an NdFeB or neo magnet) is the strongest type of magnet you can buy today. A gift box lid that snaps shut by itself, a menu folder that stays closed, a souvenir that sticks firmly to the fridge – behind all of these there is usually a small silver disc magnet. In this article we explain what neodymium magnets are, where they are used, how to choose the right size and where to buy neodymium magnets in Baku.
What is a neodymium magnet?
A neodymium magnet (NdFeB) is a permanent magnet made from an alloy of neodymium, iron and boron. It was invented in the 1980s and is today the strongest type of permanent magnet commercially available. A small neodymium disc can hold hundreds of times its own weight – many times stronger than ordinary black (ferrite) magnets.
The neodymium alloy corrodes quickly in moisture, so the magnets are usually coated with nickel (nickel-copper-nickel). That coating gives them their shiny silver look.
What does "N35" on a magnet mean?
The number after the letter N shows the magnet's grade, i.e. its strength: N35, N42, N52 and so on. The higher the number, the stronger a magnet of the same size. N35 is the most common grade for packaging, souvenirs and everyday use, offering the best balance of price and strength.
Disc magnet sizes are written as "diameter × thickness". For example, 15x1 is a magnet 15 mm in diameter and 1 mm thick.
Where are neodymium magnets used?
- Magnetic closure boxes – book-style gift boxes, perfume, watch and jewellery boxes, premium packaging. The magnet is hidden inside the board
- Souvenirs – fridge magnets, magnetic bookmarks, photo frames, branded gifts
- Print products – menu and document folders, certificate holders, notebook and planner covers, invitation boxes
- Advertising and display – POS materials, interchangeable signs, shop-window elements, magnetic name badges
- Bags and accessories – hidden closures for bags, wallets and container lids
- Crafts and design – scrapbooking, models, interchangeable decor and school projects
Which size should you choose?
- 5 mm – very small, light jobs: invitations, small cards, jewellery boxes, models
- 10 mm – medium boxes, menu folders, bookmarks, souvenirs
- 15–20 mm – large rigid boxes with heavy lids, thick board, places that need a firm closure
- Thickness – a thicker magnet (1.5–2 mm) is stronger; a thin one (1 mm) fits invisibly in thin materials
Important: holding force drops quickly as the distance between magnets grows. If the magnet sits behind thick board or several layers of paper, choose one size larger.
How to fit a magnet into a box
- Cut a recess in the board the size of the magnet – its depth should equal the magnet's thickness so the surface stays flat
- Fix the magnet with a glue that holds it well and cover it with wrapping or designer paper
- If you use a pair of magnets, check the poles: they must attract, not repel. Mark matching sides with a marker for convenience
- A thin metal plate can be used on the opposite side instead of a second magnet
Safety rules
- Keep away from children. If several magnets are swallowed, they can attract each other inside the body and cause serious injury – this requires urgent medical help
- Large magnets can pinch fingers when they snap together, and the magnets themselves can crack or chip
- Keep them away from medical devices such as pacemakers, the magnetic stripe of bank cards and mechanical watches
- Standard N-grade magnets can lose strength when heated above about 80 °C – keep this in mind when working with a hot press
Summary
- Neodymium magnets are the strongest type of permanent magnet, giving great force in a small size
- They are used as hidden closures in boxes, souvenirs, folders and promotional products
- Choose the size by the weight of the job and the thickness of material in front of the magnet
- Keep them away from children and medical devices
Where to buy neodymium magnets in Baku?
Printshop keeps N35 neodymium disc magnets in stock for boxes, packaging and souvenirs. Available sizes (diameter × thickness, mm):
- 5 mm: 5x1, 5x1.5, 5x2
- 10 mm: 10x1, 10x1.5, 10x2
- 15 mm: 15x1, 15x1.5, 15x2
- 20 mm: 20x1, 20x1.5, 20x2
You can buy the magnets at our shop in Baku or order via WhatsApp. Not sure which size fits your job? Send us the box size and material and we will help you choose.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between a neodymium magnet and a regular magnet?
Compared with an ordinary black (ferrite) magnet, a neodymium magnet of the same size is many times stronger. That is why a very small, thin neodymium magnet is enough for boxes and folders.
Do neodymium magnets rust?
The magnet material can rust in moisture, but the nickel coating protects it. As long as the coating is not scratched and the magnet is not kept damp for long, there is no problem.
Do magnets work through cardboard?
Yes, magnets work through board and paper – this is exactly how they are hidden in magnetic boxes. But the thicker the material, the weaker the hold, so choose a larger or thicker magnet for thick board.
How many magnets does a magnetic box need?
A small box usually needs one pair (one in the lid, one in the body). For wide, heavy lids, two pairs make sure the lid closes evenly on both sides.
Do neodymium magnets lose strength over time?
Under normal conditions only very slowly – in practice they keep their strength for years. Strength is mainly lost through strong heating or cracking from impact.
Printshop has neodymium disc magnets in stock: grade N35, 5, 10, 15 and 20 mm in diameter, 1, 1.5 and 2 mm thick. You can also get designer paper, board and binding materials for magnetic boxes from us. For details and prices, call us or write on WhatsApp: 050 890 11 44. Address: A. Salamzade street, Baku.