Magnet FAQ – Common Questions About Magnet Strength, Durability & Use

Welcome to the Aussie Magnets Magnet FAQ page.

Magnets are used in a huge range of applications, but many of the same questions come up again and again. Customers often want to know how strong magnets are, whether they will rust, what materials they stick to, and how to choose the right type.

This page answers some of the most common magnet questions in a simple and practical way, with links to more detailed guides where needed.

Whether you are comparing magnet types, checking compatibility, or trying to understand real-world magnet performance, this FAQ is a helpful starting point.

How Strong Are Magnets?

Magnet strength varies depending on the material, size, shape, grade, and the surface it is attaching to. Neodymium magnets are the strongest common permanent magnets, while ferrite magnets are generally weaker but more economical.

Strength is often described using pull force or surface gauss, but real-world performance also depends heavily on steel thickness, contact area, and air gap.

→ View Magnet Strength & Performance

What Materials Do Magnets Stick To?

Magnets stick best to ferromagnetic materials such as iron, mild steel, and some types of steel. They do not generally stick well to aluminium, copper, brass, timber, plastic, or glass.

Stainless steel can be confusing because some grades are magnetic and others are not. Surface thickness and composition both affect the result.

→ View Magnet Materials Guide

Do Magnets Lose Strength?

Permanent magnets can lose strength if exposed to excessive heat, heavy impact, strong opposing magnetic fields, or incorrect use. However, under normal conditions, quality magnets retain their magnetism for many years.

Different magnet materials have different resistance to demagnetisation, so the expected lifespan depends on the type of magnet and the application.

→ View Demagnetisation Guide

Can Magnets Rust?

Some magnets can rust, especially neodymium magnets if their protective coating becomes damaged. Neodymium is highly susceptible to corrosion when exposed to moisture.

Ferrite magnets generally offer better natural corrosion resistance, while coatings such as nickel, epoxy, rubber, or plastic help protect more vulnerable materials.

→ View Magnet Materials & Coatings

Which Magnet Is Strongest?

Neodymium magnets are the strongest widely used permanent magnets. They offer very high strength relative to their size and are commonly used where maximum pull force is needed in a compact space.

Other magnet materials such as samarium cobalt, alnico, ferrite, and flexible magnetic materials each have their own advantages depending on temperature, corrosion resistance, or cost.

→ View Magnet Types Guide

Can Magnets Work Through Materials?

Magnets can work through some non-magnetic materials such as plastic, glass, timber, or thin board, but performance drops as distance increases. Even a small air gap can significantly reduce holding force.

The stronger the magnet and the thinner the material, the more likely it is to work effectively through a barrier.

→ View Air Gap & Distance Guide

How Do I Choose the Right Magnet?

Choosing the right magnet depends on the application, required strength, environment, temperature, mounting method, and the surface it will attach to.

In many cases, the best choice is not simply the strongest magnet, but the one best suited to the job as a whole.

→ View Magnet Buying Guides

Common Magnet Questions

Magnet questions often overlap across strength, materials, safety, coatings, and applications. Having a clear understanding of the basics makes it much easier to choose the right magnet and avoid common mistakes.

These guides are written by the technical team at Aussie Magnets, an Australian supplier of industrial, commercial and specialist magnets since 1989.