NUST MISIS`s scientists developed a new type of permanent magnet for the Arctic and space that maintains its powerful magnetic properties in extreme temperatures.
The challenge of developing Russia’s Far North and Arctic requires special instruments that can operate in the tough natural conditions of these regions. Permanent magnets play a very important role in transportation systems, electrical engineering, radio technology, automatics, and aerospace craft. The functional properties of permanent magnets stem from their ability to withstand extreme temperatures.
Scientists from NUST MISIS developed a high-quality, strong permanent magnet on the basis of the NdFeB (neodymium-iron-boron) alloy, which is 30 percent lighter and smaller than its counterparts of the same capacity. In addition, it can operate in extreme temperatures and withstand large fluctuations in temperature.
Owing to its three critical components — a large share of the rare-earth metal praseodymium, the unique technology used in production, and a new anticorrosive coating — the magnet can be used in the engines of both civilian and military equipment. It operates effectively in temperatures ranging from —180°С to +150°С. The new magnet is made entirely from domestic materials, which means it can be produced independently.
„Using the innovative wet pressing method in the inertfreonic environment made it possible to considerably reduce losses due to oxidation of magnetic materials in the process of manufacture and maintain the designed chemical and phase composition required for maximum magnetic properties,” said Sergey Gudoshnikov, project head and leading research fellow at NUST MISIS Department of Non-ferrous Metals and Gold.
The new magnet is 30 percent lighter and smaller than its counterparts of the same capacity. This is particularly important for the aerospace industry: it costs about $20,000 to send a kilo of a cargo into near-Earth orbit. Such properties make the new magnet indispensable in instruments and electronics — from engines to navigation systems. The new magnet is highly reliable and can operate well without drawing on energy from outside sources.
The magnet’s prototype will be presented at Russia’s international defense industry forum Army-2016 on September
