Alnico Magnets Guide – Uses, Temperature Resistance & Applications
Alnico Magnets
Alnico magnets are a type of permanent magnet made from an alloy of aluminium, nickel, and cobalt. Known for their excellent temperature stability and strong magnetic field, they are widely used in industrial, scientific, and specialist applications.
While not as strong as neodymium magnets, alnico magnets offer unique advantages such as high temperature resistance and reliable long-term performance in demanding environments.
At Aussie Magnets we supply a range of alnico magnets suitable for industrial, sensing, and precision applications.
What Are Alnico Magnets?
Alnico magnets are made from a combination of:
- Aluminium (Al)
- Nickel (Ni)
- Cobalt (Co)
- Iron (Fe)
This alloy produces a magnet with strong magnetic flux density and excellent thermal stability. Alnico magnets were among the earliest high-performance permanent magnets developed and are still used today in applications where reliability and temperature resistance are critical.
How Strong Are Alnico Magnets?
Alnico magnets offer moderate magnetic strength — stronger than ferrite magnets in some applications, but generally weaker than neodymium magnets.
They are best known for their ability to maintain magnetic performance over a wide temperature range, rather than maximum holding force.
- High magnetic flux density
- Excellent stability over time
- Low resistance to demagnetisation in open magnetic circuits
Because of their lower resistance to demagnetisation, alnico magnets are often used in controlled magnetic circuits or paired with steel components.
Common Uses for Alnico Magnets
Alnico magnets are commonly used in applications where temperature stability and consistent magnetic performance are required.
- Electric guitars and pickups
- Sensors and measuring devices
- Motors and generators
- Industrial instrumentation
- Magnetic assemblies
- Scientific equipment
They are especially useful in environments where other magnets may lose strength due to heat.
Advantages of Alnico Magnets
- Excellent high temperature resistance
- Stable magnetic performance over time
- Strong magnetic field output
- Good corrosion resistance without coating
- Suitable for precision applications
Limitations of Alnico Magnets
While alnico magnets offer several advantages, they also have limitations that should be considered when selecting the right magnet.
- Lower coercivity (can be demagnetised more easily)
- Typically weaker holding force than neodymium magnets
- More expensive than ferrite magnets
- Requires careful handling in open magnetic circuits
For applications requiring compact size and maximum strength, neodymium magnets are often preferred.
Alnico vs Other Magnet Types
Alnico magnets sit between ferrite and neodymium magnets in terms of performance and application.
- Alnico magnets – excellent temperature stability and reliable performance
- Ferrite magnets – lower cost and good corrosion resistance
- Neodymium magnets – highest strength and compact size
The best choice depends on the operating environment, required strength, and budget.
Popular Alnico Magnet Shapes
Alnico magnets are commonly manufactured in shapes suited to technical and industrial applications.
- Rod magnets – widely used in sensors, pickups, and instrumentation.
- Bar magnets – commonly used in educational and industrial applications.
- Horseshoe magnets – traditional shape used to concentrate magnetic fields.
These shapes are often chosen to optimise magnetic field direction and performance within a specific application.
Shop Alnico Magnets
Aussie Magnets offers a range of alnico magnets suitable for industrial, technical, and specialised applications.
If you require magnets that can perform reliably in high-temperature or precision environments, alnico magnets are an excellent choice.