Which Metals Are Magnetic? A Clear Guide to Magnetic vs Non-Magnetic Metals

Like most things in nature, a metal’s magnetism is derived from the electrons within its core. The uneven distribution of these electrons creates magnetic dipoles through the back-and-forth shifting of an atom’s charge. When the dipoles align, localized magnetic areas are developed. Magnetic fields are completed if the localized magnetic regions point in the same direction.

What are Ferromagnetic Metals?

Ferromagnetic metals have a strong attraction to permanent magnets. However, only a few metals are ferromagnetic, including iron, cobalt, nickel, and some rare earth metal alloys. These materials form the basis of many electric products today, such as electric motors, hard disks, generators, etc. Most permanent magnets are ferromagnetic.

A few different types of magnetism are found in nature; these include ferromagnetic, diamagnetic, and paramagnetic structures, each of which provides its exclusive properties and features. However, only ferromagnetism relates to common solid metals. In general, the three types of ferromagnetic metals include:

• Iron
• Cobalt
• Nickel

Which Alloys Contain Magnetic Metals?

Alloy metals that contain any amount of iron, cobalt, or nickel are considered magnetic. The percentage of ferromagnetic elements within a given alloy equates to the overall magnetism the alloy will possess. Metal alloys that contain a ferromagnetic structure include:

• Steel
• Stainless Steel
• Ferrite
• Alnico
• Permalloy

Which Alloy Metals Are Not Magnetic?

Any metal that does not contain iron, cobalt, or nickel will not possess magnetic capabilities. Some of the more common alloys that do not contain a ferromagnetic structure include:

• Copper
• Brass
• Aluminum
• Lead
• Gold
• Silver
• Titanium
• Tungsten
• Zinc

What Are Magnetic Metals Used For?

Magnetic metals have an abundance of uses. Most conveniences today rely heavily on using magnets to achieve their overall tasks. Typical applications for magnetic metals include:

• Electronic Devices
• Navigational Equipment
• Medical Devices
• Transportation
• Automotive Batteries
• Scrapyards

IMS is Your Locally Trusted Metal Supply Company

With seven locations serving California, Arizona, Nevada, and Northern Mexico, IMS is a full-service metal supplier that understands your needs. Our inventory of metal products includes a broad range of metal shapes and an extensive selection of alloys. We offer the following advantages:

• Same-day will-call pick-up
• Next-day local delivery
• Excellent high-volume discount pricing
• Custom cut-to-size metal production
• ISO 9001 certified
• Support of Just-In-Time manufacturing processes
• No minimum purchases

Purchase Magnetic and Nonmagnetic Metals from IMS Today

Contact us for more information regarding our magnetic and nonmagnetic metals and secondary service options. Our experts will assist you in finding the metal that’s right for your specific application.