Iron Chrome Cobalt Magnets (FeCrCo)

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Iron Chrome Cobalt magnets (FeCrCo)

Iron Chrome Cobalt magnets (FeCrCo) have similar properties to cast Alnico 5 but, unlike cast alnico, the FeCrCo magnets are actually reasonably malleable. The FeCrCo magnet material is semi-hard magnetically and exists in bar, rod, wire and also as thin rolled strip. They are a replacement for CuNiFe magnetic material (CuNiFe is not commercially available any more).

Adavantages & Disadvantages of Iron Chrome Cobalt magnets (FeCrCo)

Adavantages

Malleable – FeCrCo is easier to machine than Alnico
FeCrCo can be hot deformed
The maximum recommended operating temperature is typically around +400 degrees C (752F)
FeCrCo has a Hc varying typically from 50kA/m to 300kA/m. The value of Hc produced depends on the method of the final heat treatment (timescale, temperature and quench rate)
FeCrCo usually does not require any corrosion coating

Disadvantages

If the final heat treatment is not performed, the magnetic performance is very poor
The strips are usually thin. Thicker sheets and plate are not really possible
Easily demagnetised or remagnetised in a different direction

Typical applications for Iron Chrome Cobalt magnets (FeCrCo)

Compasses
Hysteresis coupling applications e.g. a multi-pole permanent magnet rotor turning a FeCrCo disc by hysteresis

Example: A company wanted a customised needle for a compass they were designing. The needle could be produced to the shape, heat treated, painted and magnetised to their requirements.

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Iron Chrome Cobalt Magnets (FeCrCo)