Samarium cobalt (SMCO) magnets are rare earth permanent magnet materials primarily composed of samarium (Sm) and cobalt (Co). They exhibit high magnetic energy product, high coercivity, and excellent high-temperature resistance. They are widely used in aerospace, military, medical equipment, and high-end motors. When purchasing SmCo magnets, it is important to understand their classification, performance parameters, and application requirements.
Main Types of SmCo Magnets
SmCo magnets are primarily classified into two types: SmCo5 and Sm2Co17.
- SmCo5: Composed of one samarium atom and five cobalt atoms, it exhibits high magnetic properties and good corrosion resistance, but exhibits slightly lower temperature stability.
- Sm2Co17: Composed of two samarium atoms, 17 cobalt atoms, and other elements (copper, fer, zirconium, etc.), it offers enhanced high-temperature resistance and is suitable for use in extreme environments.
The following table compares the main performance characteristics of the two types:
| Parameter | SmCo5 | Sm2Co17 |
| Maximum Energy Product (Bhmax) | 16~25 MGOe | 20~32 MGOe |
| Curie Temperature (°C) | 700~750 | 800~850 |
| Operating Temperature Range (°C) | -250 ~ +250 | -250 ~ +350 |
| Corrosion Resistance | Excellent | Excellent |
| Cost | Relatively High | High |
Key Factors for Selecting Samarium Cobalt Magnets
- Operating Temperature
If the magnets need to operate in environments above 250°C, Sm2Co17 should be preferred due to its temperature stability and lower magnetic performance degradation.
- Magnetic Performance Requirements
For applications requiring high magnetic energy product and compact size (such as precision sensors), Sm2Co17, with its higher magnetic performance, can be selected. If size requirements are less stringent and cost-effectiveness is more important, SmCo5 is also a good choice.
- Operating Environment
Samarium cobalt magnets do not require additional coating in highly corrosive environments, a significant advantage over NdFeB magnets. For applications in highly corrosive environments such as marine and chemical industries, samarium cobalt magnets are almost always the preferred choice.
- Cost Budget
SmCo5 is generally slightly less expensive, but the overall price is still higher than NdFeB magnets. A balance needs to be struck between performance and budget.
Summary and Recommendations
En résumé, selecting the appropriate samarium cobalt magnet requires a comprehensive consideration of operating temperature, magnetic performance requirements, operating environment, and budget. l For high-temperature applications (>250°C): Sm2Co17 is preferred.
- For medium- and high-temperature applications where cost is a priority: SmCo5 is preferred.
- For highly corrosive environments: Samarium-cobalt magnets are more reliable than NdFeB magnets.
When selecting suppliers, we recommend companies with strict quality control, sophisticated production processes, and extensive export experience.
As one of the world’s leading manufacturers of rare earth permanent magnets, Jlmag boasts advanced samarium-cobalt magnet production lines and a rigorous quality inspection system. Its products are widely exported to high-end markets in Europe, America, and Southeast Asia. Its SmCo magnets meet world-class standards for temperature resistance, magnetic stability, and dimensional accuracy, making it a long-term partner in the aerospace, and precision instrument industries. If you require high-quality samarium-cobalt magnets with stable performance, long life, and high standards, please contact us. Jlmag provides high-quality samarium-cobalt magnets and other related permanent magnets.
