eReport

February 2007

2007 Magnetics Program: 31 Sessions and 2 Keynote Panels!

The 2007 Magnetics Conference has the biggest & best program ever! The finalized conference schedule is now online. To see this amazing line-up of speakers from industry leading companies, click here.

The 2007 Magnetics Conference, will be held April 3-5, 2007, at the Lincolnshire Marriott Resort in Chicago, Ill.  

Recent additions to the program:  

Pushing the Boundaries of Magnetics
Learn what's happening in some of the most exciting areas of magnetics technology development taking place around the world today. This session will highlight numerous projects that offer the promise of high-growth potential and significant impact for future product and system performance in a variety of applications. It will discuss their technical and economic implications for applying new magnetics technologies in medical, defense, electronics, automotive and industrial products and systems. Who are the leading players? What stage is their development and what's ahead?
Get ready for a stimulating ride through the world of superconducting magnets, nanomagnetics, biomagnetics, electromagnetic launch and propulsion, new magnetic materials, and powerful new innovations in the application and measurement of magnetics. Consider how these breakthrough advancements can impact your own efforts.
David Webster, Editor, Magnetics Business & Technology,
Greenwood Village, Colo.

Interested in Exhibiting? Contact Joan Pauls at joanp@infowebcom.com.

For more conference information visit our Conference web site.

Magnetics Business & Technology is pleased to announce the first annual Innova Awards. These awards are designed to recognize companies that are striving for excellence and are achieving technology breakthroughs.

Industry Leadership
This award goes to the company that has shown a commitment to excellence and is a leading innovator in the magnetics industry.

Product Development Excellence
This award goes to the product that shows the most innovation and cutting-edge technology.

Best Technology
This award goes to the technology that has the most promise of impacting/improving the magnetics industry.

Outstanding Application
This award goes to the magnet that has been successfully integrated and performed in an end-product.

The conference committee is currently accepting applications.

Submission Guidelines
Nominations will be accepted only electronically by email. Send your nomination in the body of your email letter and include supporting material as attachments. Submit to Heather Krier: heatherk@infowebcom.com.

Click here for submission guidelines.

Whether you’re a soldier navigating a minefield or a doctor examining a tumor, how well you know the territory can make all the difference in the outcome.

That’s why military and medical personnel increasingly rely on magnetic field sensors to help map their respective terrains – and why the US Department of Defense (DOD) has awarded a University of Houston researcher and his team a grant worth up to $1.6 million to build the most powerful magnetic field sensor to date.

Stanko Brankovic, an assistant professor of electrical and computer engineering with the Cullen College of Engineering at UH, and co-principle investigator Paul Ruchhoeft, also a UH assistant professor of electrical and computer engineering, will use the grant to create a new type of magnetic field sensor that, if successful, will be hundreds – perhaps thousands – of times more sensitive than anything currently available.

On the military front, hundreds of thousands or more of these sensors could be the key components in a low-cost system that maps minefields quickly and accurately. In the medical arena, the sensors could be applied to magnetic resonance imaging, yielding highly detailed images of, for example, a tumor or an injured knee.

The funding for the project, "Single Ferromagnetic Nanocontact-Based Devices as Magnetic Field Sensors," will be delivered in two stages. The first stage, valued at $100,000 for one year, requires a proof of concept, in which Brankovic and Ruchhoeft must construct a working sensor. To do this, they will utilize new ideas in the nanoengineering of novel materials and the development of nanofabrication processes for devices smaller than 10 nanometers.

Should they succeed, the DOD will consider awarding them an extra $1.5 million to complete an entire system that incorporates multiple sensors, data-transmission equipment, and equipment and software that translate data into an easily understandable format.

The team’s sensors will be based upon the phenomenon known as “ballistic magnetoresistance,” which is the effect of a magnetic field on the ability of electrons to flow between magnetic electrodes through a nanocontact – a tiny wire measuring billionths of a meter that forms naturally between magnetic electrodes.

If the two electrodes’ magnetic orientations (the direction in which a material’s magnetism pushes or pulls) are different, some of the electrons flowing between them will be repelled by the spot in the nanocontact where the two different magnetizations meet, Brankovic said.

“When exposed to a magnetic field, however, the resulting change in magnetic orientation of the electrodes affects electrons’ ability to travel through the nanocontact,” he said. “Depending on the size and material of the nanocontact and magnetization of the electrodes, the electrons will flow through either more or less easily.”

This change can be measured by simple tools such as a voltmeter. On the bulk scale, magnetoresistance, the change in electrical resistance of a conductor when a magnetic field is applied, is only one factor in determining how easily electrons travel between electrodes. On the nanoscale, in which these magnetic field sensors will be constructed, magnetoresistance is the only cause of fluctuation in the flow of electrons.

The heart of Brankovic’s system will consist of two magnetic electrodes, connected by a very small magnetic nanocontact. When exposed to a magnetic field, the flow of electrons through the nanocontact will change, yielding a measurable result.

Exactly how magnetoresistance works on this scale is unknown and will be one of the subjects of Brankovic’s research. Two of the main theories to explain the phenomenon – both of which are supported by limited physical evidence – are incompatible. Brankovic has developed his own hypothesis that, if correct, would account for both sets of evidence.

“In my hypothesis, the nanocontact connecting the two electrodes is composed of non-conductive metal oxide that has metal channels that act as conductive pathways for electrons,” Brankovic said. “When exposed to a magnetic field, some, but not all, of the channels of conductive material are altered either by the magnetic domain wall or by magnetostriction – the phenomena of a material’s shape changing slightly when exposed to a magnetic field. Either of these explanations would result in a small but measurable change in the flow of electrons.”

Whether this supposition proves correct or magnetic resistance on the nanoscale works in some other manner, Brankovic’s goal will remain the same: to build a first-of-its kind magnetic field sensor that is far more powerful than any other sensor to date. If he succeeds, his invention will create a fundamental change in the arena of magnetic field detection.

Adams Introduces New Neodymium with Adhesive Backing and Strike Plates
Adams Magnetic Products Co. has expanded the potential applications for Neodymium ("Neo") magnetic products by offering these powerful, compact magnets with adhesive backing. Optional strike plates also are available for either magnet-to-magnet or magnet-to-metal connections.

These new magnets are nickel coated and are Neo grade 3512 with 0.030-inch foam adhesive on one side. Adams' most popular disc sizes are stocked in diameters ranging from 0.250 to 1.000 inches. Adams also stocks a rectangular sized 0.055-inch-thick by 0.500-inch-wide by 1.000-inch-long Neo magnet with foam adhesive.

"Suitable for a variety of surfaces, magnets provide the strength and durability of mechanical closures and fasteners, with the mobility of temporary hangers. Magnets allow signage and displays to be quickly, neatly updated with minimal tools and no training," said Craig Myers, Adams' sales manager. "Whether clearly visible or completely hidden from view, magnets enhance signage, displays and fixtures offering near limitless potential for customization at almost any stage in the design process. Quick-turn samples and prototypes are a regular part of Adams' service."

Researchers at the University of Victoria have discovered new lightweight magnets that could be used in making everything from extra-thin magnetic computer memory to ultra-light spacecraft parts. A paper on the study will appear in the Jan. 18 edition of Nature, a prestigious international science magazine.

For decades, researchers have attempted to create an alternative to conventional pure metal or metal alloy magnets, which are heavy, inflexible and can only be produced under high temperatures.

The team, led by UVic chemist Dr. Robin Hicks, discovered a simple method for making a new family of organic-based magnets by combining nickel and one of three different organic compounds. The discovery is the first step in designing the next generation of magnets which could, in theory, be easily manipulated at room temperature.

“The sky’s the limit for these magnets, in principle,” said Hicks. “Suppose you want to make a particular shape of magnet — these magnets could be dissolved in solution and shaped into a different form.”

“Conventional magnets are a ubiquitous part of everyday life, controlling everything from computers to cars, so I believe these new, highly processable magnets could have endless applications.”

The team will continue to fine-tune this next-generation of magnets, which resemble black powder, to further develop their processability and commercial potential.

Magnesy Baildon Ltd is a Polish company with over 55 years of experience of Alnico magnets production. In the last two years the company invested in technology, that was invented by its high qualified engineers. This innovative technology allows to product Alnico rods up to 300 mm long without shrinkage cavity. The dimensions of rods that can be manufactured using this new method are: ø3, ø4, ø5, ø6, ø7 mm.

The company looks for business partners from all over the world to establish stable cooperation on the field of delivering the longest Alnico rods. We invite you to visit the company website: http://www.magnesy.com.pl

Sypris Test & Measurement Releases the New 4100 Series Elf Gauss Meters

Sypris Test & Measurement, Inc., a subsidiary of Sypris Solutions, Inc., has released two new Extremely Low Field “ELF” gauss meters. These meters are upgraded in both visual and performance over their predecessors. The new ELF meters combine many of the previously separate features into one functional unit, reducing the need to buy various units.

Lightweight and completely self contained, the easy-to-use 4100 series ELF Meters are well suited for commercial or home use. The 4100 Series accurately measures extremely low frequency magnetic fields generated by electrical equipment. Applications include detecting magnetic field emissions from a wide variety of sources, including video display terminals, AC power lines, office equipment, household appliances and all types of electronic equipment.

“The new 4100 ELF family has been redesigned to be more ergonomically appealing and add more features per dollar due to the upgrading of the technology used from its predecessor. This unit embraces the needs of the marketplace for a high performance, low cost solution that will identify extremely low electromagnetic fields,” said Gary Turner, director of Sales and Marketing for the F.W. Bell products line.

The 4180 unit, with its switchable single axis mode, allows users to display the vector components of the magnetic field. This is useful in applications that require the direction of the magnetic field to be known as well as the field strength.

The 4190 unit has analog output, data logging and extended bandwidth, in addition to the functions of the 4180. The 4190 unit will also allow the display to show the magnetic field in uT (micro tesla) rather than mG (milligauss).

The 4100 Series Hand-Held Gaussmeters’ built-in software eliminates the need for complex calibration procedures. User prompts on the custom formatted LCD allow fast, simple push button operation. All models come with instruction manual, hard carrying case and four AAA batteries.

DRGH

DRGR

Stackpole Electronics, Inc. hasintroduced two new series of ferrite bobbin inductors. Designated the DRGH and DRGR Series, they are available in a wide range of inductance values with tight tolerances nd remarkably low DC resistance. The parts provide solutions to many design challenges where low cost and high-power performance are important.

The precise control of core materials creates the exceptionally large range of values and contributes to the ability of the DRGH and DRGR inductors to achieve tolerances as tight as 5 percent. Both series are DIP power inductors, but the DRGR features a ferrite sleeve to effectively shield nearby components from the EMI.

The addition of this type of leaded power inductor fills a significant void in the Stackpole power inductor offering. Bobbin-style inductors are a popular choice for applications requiring both noise attenuation and protection of sensitive components. The single layer of windings generates very low parasitic capacitance, making both series efficient power chokes.

The DRGH and DRGR are typically larger than many SMD power chokes, creating two distinct advantages. First, the large size enables the DRGH and DRGR to handle large currents with low saturation losses, a key requirement in today’s design environment. Second, the relatively large size and thru-hole configuration help the DRGH and DRGR efficiently transfer heat away from the part, minimizing susceptibility to overheating which is a common cause of power inductor failures.

The versatility of the DRGH and DGR Series makes them suitable for a wide array of applications. The noise attenuation and low saturation losses make them well suited for personal computers and high-power / high-frequency power supplies. Furthermore, the variety of sizes available and robust surge capability makes them suitable in a number of battery-supplied devices, such as electronic testing equipment and many other higher-power portable electronic devices.

The DRGH Series is a non-shielded power choke available in values from 10 μH to 47,000 μH, is rated for current up to 5.3 A and offers DC resistance as low as 50 mΩ. The DRGR is magnetically shielded and available in values from 10 μH to 10,000 μH, with current ratings up to 3.9 A. Both series are available in diameters between 6 mm and 10 mm, and offer significant cost and space savings over comparable toroid inductors. For both series, the larger part sizes have four leads instead of two to enhance mechanical integrity. Pricing for the DRGH is typically $.138 to $.161 and DRGR pricing is around $.185 to $.219. Lead times for both series are eight to 10 weeks, with samples available in three to four weeks.

Hanau-based Vacuumschmelze GmbH has supplied magnet systems for integration into the sensor in the SEPT Solar Electron and Proton Telescope, which measures solar activity in space and records solar wind and emission of electrically charged particles in solar eruptions. As part of the STEREO mission (Solar Terrestrial Relations Observatory), two SEPTs on board two identical space probes were launched from Cape Canaveral. For SEPT, five to 10 magnet systems with a high magnetic field, occupying a maximum space of 2 by 4.1 cm³ and weighing a maximum of 125 grams were required. The magnet system designed by Vacuumschmelze for integration into the SEPT sensor used two VACOFLUX 50 yokes and four VACODYM 745 HR magnets measuring 16 by 16 by 8 mm.

The mission carries a total of 16 different instruments including a magnetometer for recording the earth’s magnetic field to an accuracy of 0.1 nT. To achieve this high standard of precision, the stray fields of all other instruments had to be reduced. The maximum permissible value targeted in the first phase was 0.5 nT at a distance of 3 m. The highly complex calculation of the magnetic field, taking production tolerances into consideration, were rapidly completed using Vacuumschmelze’s own analytical field calculation program. Based on these calculations, high-precision measurement of magnetic momentum and angular deviation was performed on magnetic blocks and the most suitable combination of four magnets for each system was selected, marked and assembled.

Subsequent measurement of the maximum permissible value delivered an excellent 1.8 nT, which received full NASA approval.

mPhase Technologies Signs Cooperative R&D Agreement with US Army
Research Will Evaluate Military Uses of the Nanobattery and Magnetometer

mPhase Technologies has signed a CRADA (Cooperative Research and Development Agreement) from the US Army Armament Research, Development and Engineering Center (ARDEC) at Picatinny New Jersey.

The purpose of the agreement is to cooperatively test and evaluate the mPhase Smart Nano battery and ultra-sensitive magnetometer. The army researchers will further evaluate the prototypes using the Army's testing facilities at Picatinny Arsenal in New Jersey in order to potentially incorporate the technologies into programs sponsored by Picatinny.

Carlos Pereira, the ARDEC Advanced Precision Concepts Branch chief and principal investigator said, "We are pleased to work with mPhase to explore new ways to bring advantages to the US Army that Nanotechnology and MEMS devices offer."

Preston Haney, the ARDEC co-principal investigator, said "The testing of the mPhase prototype nanobattery and magnetometer will help determine their applicability for the military in new fields like sensor networks and smart munitions."

"This agreement is a significant validation of our technology," said Ron Durando, president and CEO of mPhase Technologies. "We are looking forward to working with the US Army scientists to drive our technology into leading edge military applications."

Some of the possible uses for the mPhase magnetometer are perimeter security applications, and navigation and "GPS denied" navigation applications. The potential military uses of the Smart Nanobattery include powering small electronics like sensors and potential power source for smart munitions.

Last spring, mPhase reported on initial tests at Picatinny. The company said that the structure of its prototype battery and magnetometer demonstrated extreme resiliency to shock and acceleration, surviving a test that subjected them to high acceleration at a g-Force of 12,000. (One g is equal to the pull of gravity at sea level.)

The test, which involved a shot out of an air-gun, indicated that the underlying nanostructure of the prototype power cell could withstand extreme shock if used in military applications. The prototype magnetometer similarly withstood the stress test. Those tests pave the way for developing small guided munitions.

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Lord Corporation Magnetorheological (MR) Fluid for Automotive Damping Systems

Lord Corp., after committing more than a decade of intense R&D, holds the world's most extensive patent portfolio on MR fluid formulations, devices and systems. The company has developed additives, lubricants and suspension aids to keep iron particles in place while preventing them from grinding away at seals, gaskets and metal components. The company has also compiled a body of scientific data through aggressive life cycle testing and installed commercial applications that clearly demonstrate the effectiveness, durability and performance of MR fluids, devices and systems.

Want to Learn More about Magnetoheological Fluids?

Attend Lord Corp.’s pre-conference workshop on April 3 rd, 2007 at the 2007 Magnetics Conference, entitled “ Engineering with Magnetorheological Fluids”.
Summary – The workshop will provide an in-depth overview of the MR fluid technology and applications. It will cover the basic physics, chemistry, and rheology of magnetorheological or MR fluids. Differences between MR fluids and other controllable fluids such as electrorheological (ER) fluids and ferro-fluids will be discussed. Advantages, limitations, and concerns regarding the use of MR fluids will be addressed, including material compatibility, gravitational settling, temperature limits, abrasion, and durability. The various modes in which MR fluids may be used will be described. The workshop will provide an overview of the basic guidelines for devices using MR fluids including helpful tools for evaluating feasibility of specific MR fluid applications. The basic elements and key considerations of magnetic circuit design as part of a practical MR fluid device will be covered. Finally, a detailed description of a variety of MR fluid applications will be given.

Click here for more information

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