Drive systems
Electric motors, generators and servo drives may contain permanent magnets; the motor design and material vary.
Practical magnet guide · Component context
Where NdFeB magnets may be found
NdFeB magnets are used in numerous products. Even so, devices in the same industry do not necessarily contain the same magnet type, grade or proportion of rare-earth elements.
Component context
Applications & origin: classify the material and its origin
Applications can help locate a nameplate, bill of materials and dismantling route. They do not replace material identification.
Data storage
HDD voice-coil assemblies are a known source of magnets, but data security and dismantling must be considered separately.
Audio and electronics
Speakers, headphones and small actuators may contain magnets, often within complex assemblies.
Industrial components
Pump couplings, sensors, automation equipment and separators are possible sources with widely varying designs.
Important limitation
Do not publish fixed grades, magnet masses, Dy/Tb content or value categories for each application.
For material assessment
Information needed on applications & origin
- 01Nameplate and part number
- 02Bill of materials or datasheet
- 03Component and dismantling photographs
- 04Origin and legal status
Enquiry in four steps
Confirm the required photographs, quantity and origin, and agree the handover arrangements
- 01
Enquiry
Record the material, form, condition, quantity and unit, country where the material is located and supporting documents.
- 02
Initial assessment
Cross-check the stated material identity, batch, origin, parties, status and general processing route.
- 03
Assessment plan
If required, agree the sample, method, costs, packaging and handover arrangements.
- 04
Commercial terms
Only once a reliable basis has been established should the commercial terms, responsibilities and payment basis be documented.
Frequently asked questions
Applications & origin: quick answers
Does every electric motor contain neodymium magnets?
No. Motors may use different designs and magnet materials, or operate without permanent magnets.
Are EV or wind turbine magnets always rich in Dy?
Not as a general rule. Formulations and manufacturing processes vary; the application or temperature class does not establish a fixed content.
Can the application be used to identify the material?
It is a clue to the material’s origin. Manufacturer data or suitable analysis is required for reliable identification.
Technical and legal sources
Six further references
Time-sensitive legal, transport and market information should be checked directly against the linked primary sources before it is used in a specific case.
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