Microstructure and Magnetic Properties of Polymer Bonded Magnets produced by Additive Manufacturing Technologies

Abstract

Abstract Polymer bonded Nd-Fe-B magnets belong to the group of composite materials which consist mainly of two components: A polymer binder (PPS, PA) and magnetic particles of Nd-Fe-B alloy. The introduction of 3D printing using the method of Fused Deposition Modelling (FDM) as an alternative technology for the production of polymer bonded magnets is aimed at lowering costs of small-scale production while preserving good magnetic and mechanical properties, such as those obtainable by injection moulding. The purpose of the research work was to identify: (i) The optimal composition and properties of compounds (filament) used for 3D printing of polymer bonded magnets and (ii) Finally, the optimal processing parameters of 3D printing, which would give printed polymer bonded magnets characteristics similar to those produced by injection moulding.