Magnetization of non magnetic materials

Published: 2023-03-31 14:35:11 • Daniel Gårdefelt

Magnetization of ferromagnetic but non-magnetic metals metals is very feasible. Materials such as iron, cobalt and nickel are materials called ferromagnetic. They are not magnetic in themselves, but they are magnetically attractive metals that are regularly used to create magnetic systems. This is because you can manipulate magnetic fields with ferromagnetic materials. It is also possible to magnetize these materials temporarily or permanently, so that they themselves become magnetic, by using a sufficiently strong magnetic field.

This is what it looks like as the metal goes from being non-magnetic to becoming like a magnet:


The above metals can be magnetized in many different ways - for example, using strong permanent magnets, electromagnetic fields and magnetic fields generated by electric current. Permanent magnets, which create their own magnetic fields and do not require an external power source, are the most widely used method.

To magnetize with a permanent magnet, the material must be placed near the magnet and then exposed to the magnet's magnetic field. The stronger the magnetic field and the closer the material is, the better chance there is of succeeding in magnetizing the material. This is called Magnetic induction.

Multiple magnets can be used to increase the strength of the magnetic field, or the material can be repeatedly exposed to the magnetic field until the appropriate amount of magnetization is achieved.

Electromagnetic fields are another method of magnetizing non-magnetic metal. A magnetic field is generated by supplying an electric current via a coil of wire. The non-magnetic material is then fed into the coil and exposed to the magnetic field. The strength of the magnetic field can be modified by varying the current flowing through the coil.

Alternating current (AC) or direct current (DC) can generate electromagnetic fields. Direct current is used for permanent magnetization, while alternating current is used for temporary magnetization. In industrial contexts, electromagnets are often used to magnetize steel and other metals.

A magnetic field generated by electric current is a third approach to magnetizing a non-magnetic material. A strong current passes through a wire, creating a magnetic field around the wire. The non-magnetic material is then exposed to the magnetic field by being placed inside it. The strength of the magnetic field can be modified by varying the current flowing through the wire.

The magnetic field of electric current is widely used to magnetize small metal objects such as screws and bolts for use in electrical and electronic applications.