Standardization News

ASTM International’s magnetic properties committee is seeking participants to develop a standard for magnet assemblies used on products such as magnetic separators, point of sale displays, and tool fixturing. 

Specifically, the new standard (WK70439) aims to describe a procedure for conducting pull tests on permanent magnet assemblies. Such tests help confirm the assembly is constructed correctly, magnetized properly and will produce a minimum amount of holding power.

“Magnet assemblies are often rated for pulling strength or holding force, but the measurement process is not well defined,” said ASTM International member Michael Devine, of Adams Magnetic Products. “Testing conditions can skew the numbers so that a given product can look stronger from one vendor to another.” 

Devine notes that the proposed standard will help eliminate that variation and give consumers assurance that their product will provide the necessary amount of pulling strength.

The magnetic properties committee would especially welcome participation from organizations that sell magnetic devices rated by pull strength. ASTM welcomes participation in developing standards. Become a member of ASTM. The next meeting of ASTM International magnetic properties committee is May 11-12, 2020, in Boston, Massachusetts, USA.