Magnetic Materials

SmFeN Magnetic Materials offer the following features:

Increased Packing Density
Particle size 1/50 of conventional reduces material costs

Wear Prevention and Cost Reduction
Achieved with µ-sized fine powders

Enhanced Magnetism, Fewer Steps
SmFeN and ferrite injection molding simplifies production

Neodymium-Free
Reduces inventory risks from price changes

Note: These insights are based on comparisons between our SmFeN products and neodymium (Nd) products. For details, please contact us.

Environmentally Friendly Samarium-Iron-Nitrogen Magnetic Materials

Sumitomo Metal Mining has manufactured samarium-iron-nitrogen (SmFeN) magnetic materials for more than 20 years. These materials are made with samarium (Sm), a surplus element among the 17 rare-earth elements, so raw-material supply risk stays low.
They deliver magnetic properties comparable to those of neodymium-iron-boron (NdFeB) magnetic materials, but with more stable pricing.

The properties of anisotropic magnet materials vary with factors such as magnetic circuit design and molding conditions, which can make them seem difficult to use. We support successful product development with services such as magnetic field analysis simulations and molding advice.

This graph shows typical demagnetization curves comparing the magnetic properties of Wellmax™-series products.

If our standard lineup does not meet your requirements, please contact us for custom solutions.

Note: Wellmax™-series Magnetic Materials include Wellmax™-S1 magnet powder and injection-molded Magnetic Materials such as Wellmax™-S3, S4, or S5. These products have a maximum magnetic energy product (BHmax) of 24–143 kJ/m³ (3–18 MGOe).

For detailed product information and specifications, download the data sheets below.

Magnets are a core component of motors. The strength of these magnets significantly affects motor output and energy efficiency. Wellmax™-series SmFeN Magnetic Materials have been used for more than 20 years in everyday electrical appliances such as air conditioners and washing machines. In recent years, the use of Wellmax™-series materials has expanded to a wider range of motor applications, including automotive motors.

Applications example

• Consumer Electronics (smartphones, laptops, copiers, speakers)
• Automotive (power windows, power seats, valves, meters)
• Industrial Equipment (conveyors, cooling fans)
• Home Appliances (washing machines, air conditioners, vacuum cleaners)

What is the rare earth element samarium (Sm)?

Samarium is one of the 17 rare-earth elements. Its deposits are smaller than those of neodymium (Nd) but larger than those of dysprosium (Dy). The most common material that contains Sm is samarium-cobalt (SmCo). While the demand for Nd and Dy keeps rising, the demand for Sm remains low. Because mining companies co-mine samarium with other rare-earth elements when they extract Nd and Dy, samarium remains a surplus element during that process. Therefore, using samarium contributes to the efficient use of global resources.

About the surge in the price of rare-earth magnets.
Magnetic Material Applications Such as EV Motors, and the Potential of Samarium-Iron-Nitrogen Magnetic Materials

Supporting the Use of Magnetic Materials to Meet Performance Requirements

We provide simulations for magnetic field analysis in magnet-mold design so that customers can use anisotropic magnets effectively and ensure that their products perform as required. We also advise on mold configurations to support product development. Examples of our advice include the selection of magnetic and nonMagnetic Materials, magnet-related equipment (such as molding machines and magnetizing power supplies), and molding conditions. Support for mold design through our magnetic field analysis simulations.

Support for mold design through our magnetic field analysis simulations

Q: What are the main applications of samarium (Sm)?

A: The main applications include SmCo (samarium-cobalt) magnets. SmCo magnets are costly, but their excellent thermal stability at high temperatures allows manufacturers to use them continuously in sensors and other devices.

Q: How can rare-earth elements be considered abundant?

A: The name "rare-earth" leads many people to assume that reserves are small, but known reserves exceed 100 million tons. In recent years, the seafloor near Japan has been found to hold reserves equivalent to hundreds of years of global demand.

Q: What are the applications of rare-earth Magnetic Materials?

A: Rare-earth Magnetic Materials are used in a wide range of devices, including motors, generators, and magnetic disks. Because of their strong magnetic force, manufacturers increasingly use them in products that must be smaller, lighter, and more efficient.