An electromagnet is a device that produces an electric current by way of magnetism, which is a push or pull action between two objects that are usually made of metal or iron. An electromagnet generally consists of a soft iron coil or core with an insulated wire wrapped around it. The electrical current passes through the wire whenever you turn on the electromagnet. There are two classes of electromagnets: traction electromagnets, which pull objects over a distance; and lifting magnets, which can carry and transfer steel or metal without any cables or hooks.

Industrial electromagnets are helpful for manufacturing processes such as lifting scrap metals or iron. They are also incorporated in the production of electric motors and generators. Other machines and devices depend on industrial electromagnets, including circuit breakers, electromagnetic brakes and clutches, speakers, television receivers, disc drives and even telephones and doorbells. In science and engineering, a laboratory electromagnet can be used with atomic particle accelerators. Before you buy electromagnets for the factory or laboratory, consider these criteria:

1. Find electromagnets for sale that have the right specifications and dimensions.

2. Choose to add special features to work with electromagnets.

3. Locate electromagnet suppliers that offer competitive pricing and expedited shipping.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Find customized electromagnets and related applications

Think of physical constraints, such as dimensions, mass and volume of industrial electromagnets. Performance, voltage and environmental factors should also be evaluated when looking for electromagnets for sale.

I recommend: Dura Magnetics, Inc. offers standard or custom electromagnets and power supplies for shipment to aerospace, research and medical, defense and manufacturing industries. Find a DC electromagnet or an AC electromagnet at Dexter Magnetic Technologies, a certified electromagnet supplier that also manufactures electromagnetic material such as ferrites and powdered irons.

Decide whether you want specialized electromagnetic features

Search for laboratory electromagnet equipment and electromagnetic coil accessories or seek specialized features for your electromagnet design, such as manual or automatic operations and self-cleaning functions.

I recommend: Custom Coils, Inc. assembles electromagnet supplies such as air-core coils, field coils or water-cooled coils to work with electromagnets. Magnetic Products, Inc. specializes in suspended electromagnets featuring belt separators for safe materials removal.

Buy electromagnets from electromagnet manufacturers that also provide prompt shipping

In addition to finding electromagnet suppliers that provide competitive prices, convenient and immediate shipping availability should be equally important in order to maintain your business supply inventory.

I recommend: Reid Supply Co. distributes standard electromagnets that can be ordered online. Rochester Magnet Co. provides fast delivery of flat-faced, bipolar and round lifting electromagnets.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  The strength of an electromagnet depends on the number of coils surrounding it, the durability of the material and the intensity or magnitude of the electrical current.