Pot magnets - also known as cup magnets or mounting magnets—are a type of magnetic assembly designed to provide strong holding power in a compact form. These versatile magnets are widely used in industrial, commercial, and household applications for holding, mounting, lifting, and positioning metal objects securely.
Let's explore what a pot magnet is, how it works, and where it’s most commonly used.
A pot magnet consists of a permanent magnet (usually neodymium, ferrite, or samarium cobalt) encased in a steel shell or “pot.”
The steel cup helps concentrate the magnetic field on one face of the magnet, greatly enhancing its holding force and reducing demagnetization on other sides.
Key structure:
Magnet core: Neodymium (NdFeB), ferrite, or AlNiCo
Steel casing: Directs the magnetic flux to one side
Mounting feature: Central hole, threaded stud, or hook for installation
Unlike regular magnets that emit a magnetic field on all sides, a pot magnet’s magnetic field is concentrated on one active face.
The steel casing around the magnet redirects the magnetic lines of force to the base, providing:
Stronger magnetic pull (up to several hundred kilograms depending on size)
Better surface adhesion
Reduced risk of chipping or cracking the magnet
This design makes pot magnets ideal for applications requiring strong, localized magnetic force.
Pot magnets are highly practical and appear in a wide range of industries and everyday uses.
Pot magnets are often used for holding metal parts or tools in place, such as:
• Fixing signage, panels, or nameplates
• Holding workpieces during welding or machining
• Attaching hooks, handles, or fixtures to metal surfaces
They serve as the base for dial indicators, lamps, measuring stands, and display systems, providing a stable and adjustable magnetic mount.
Large neodymium pot magnets are used in lifting and retrieval tools to move or recover ferrous materials efficiently.
In factories, workshops, and warehouses, pot magnets help:
• Organize metal tools and parts
• Secure jigs, fixtures, or molds
• Create detachable connections for quick assembly and disassembly
Pot magnets are used in point-of-sale displays and exhibition setups to attach shelves, graphics, or lighting elements without drilling holes.
Smaller pot magnets are practical for:
• Hanging utensils, keys, or decorations
• Mounting whiteboards or magnetic clips
• DIY projects requiring strong magnetic adhesion
| Type | Magnet Material | Features | Common Uses |
|---|---|---|---|
| Neodymium Pot Magnet | NdFeB | Highest strength, compact | Industrial holding, lifting |
| Ferrite Pot Magnet | Ceramic | Cost-effective, corrosion-resistant | Outdoor, signage |
| Samarium Cobalt Pot Magnet | SmCo | High temperature resistance | Aerospace, high-temp environments |
| AlNiCo Pot Magnet | AlNiCo | Stable at high temperatures | Measuring and sensing devices |
Pot magnets are powerful, versatile magnetic tools engineered for secure holding and mounting applications.
Their unique design - combining a permanent magnet with a steel casing—maximizes magnetic strength while ensuring durability and stability.
Whether used in industrial manufacturing, workshops, retail displays, or home organization, pot magnets deliver a reliable and efficient magnetic solution for countless practical needs.
