Ferrite permanent magnets are widely used in electronics when designers need an economical, corrosion-resistant magnetic material and have enough space to work with ferrite’s lower energy density. Common applications include electric motors, speakers, magnetic sensors, switches and other high-volume assemblies.
For a broader material overview, see our Ferrite Magnets Buying Guide. To shop stock parts, browse Ceramic / Ferrite Magnets.
Hard Ferrite Magnets vs. Soft Ferrite Cores
The word “ferrite” is used for two related but different material families. Hard ferrite is permanently magnetized and is the material used in ceramic permanent magnets. Soft ferrite is designed to magnetize and demagnetize with an applied field and is commonly used in transformer cores, inductors and EMI components.
This article focuses on hard ferrite permanent magnets.
Why Ferrite Is Used in Electronic Products
- Low cost: ferrite works well in high-volume products where magnet cost matters.
- Good corrosion resistance: hard ferrite generally does not need protective nickel plating.
- Stable permanent magnet behavior: ferrite has good resistance to demagnetization when the magnetic circuit is designed correctly.
- Broad manufacturing availability: blocks, disks, rings and motor arc segments are common production forms.
Ferrite Magnets in Electric Motors
Ferrite magnets are widely used in motors for appliances, fans, pumps, blowers, automotive accessories and industrial equipment. They are especially attractive when the motor has enough space to accommodate a larger magnetic volume and the cost advantage of ferrite outweighs the size reduction possible with NdFeB.
For applications where compact size or higher torque density is critical, engineers may instead select neodymium. See Ferrite vs. Neodymium Magnets for the main design tradeoffs.
Ferrite Magnets in Speakers and Audio Equipment
Loudspeaker assemblies are another classic use of ferrite permanent magnets. The magnet works with the steel magnetic circuit and voice coil to create the field needed to move the speaker cone. Ferrite remains attractive because it is economical, durable and available in large ring and disk geometries.
Ferrite Magnets in Sensors and Switches
Ferrite magnets can be used with Hall-effect sensors, reed switches and other position or proximity systems when the required field strength and air gap are compatible with ferrite. In tighter packages or applications requiring stronger fields at greater gaps, NdFeB may be more practical.
Other Electronic and Electromechanical Uses
- Magnetic latches and closures
- Small appliances and actuators
- General-purpose holding assemblies
- Educational and consumer products
- Low-cost magnetic couplings and mechanisms
When Ferrite Is Not the Best Choice
Ferrite is not ideal when the magnet must deliver very high force from a very small package. Because its energy density is much lower than NdFeB, changing from neodymium to ferrite often requires a larger magnet or a redesigned magnetic circuit.
If you are considering a material substitution, review Can Ferrite or Alnico Replace Neodymium?.
Source Ferrite Magnets for Electronics
Radial Magnets stocks ceramic / ferrite blocks, disks and rings. For custom dimensions, motor geometries, production quantities or special magnetization requirements, use the Magnet RFQ Builder. For multiple part numbers or annual-volume sourcing, use the Bulk Magnet RFQ.
