Electromagnetic bars and holding magnets: how do they work?
An electromagnetic holding magnet uses an electromagnetic field to generate an attractive force on any steel or ferromagnetic part placed against it. As soon as electrical current powers the integrated coil, the magnetic field closes through the poles of the holding magnet and the part is held firmly in position. When power is cut, the force is canceled instantly and the part is released without any mechanical intervention.
Binder's range also includes electromagnetic bars, which operate on the same principle but have a rectangular-prism shape rather than a cylindrical one. They are therefore suited to different holding configurations, depending on the contact surface and the part to be immobilized.
This operating principle provides precise control and responsiveness that conventional mechanical fastening systems cannot match. It also enables a virtually unlimited number of cycles because there are no friction wear points or moving parts.
Power-on holding magnets and power-off holding magnets: two technologies, two use cases
Power-on holding magnets
Our catalog includes two main families. A power-on electromagnetic holding magnet holds the part as long as it is energized: the magnetic field is active when power is applied, and the part is released when power is cut. This is the most common choice for production applications where holding force must be precisely controlled.
Power-off holding magnets
By contrast, a power-off electromagnetic holding magnet incorporates a permanent magnet that maintains the hold when power is off. Reverse current must be applied to neutralize the magnet's field and release the part. This type of holding magnet is particularly well suited to safety applications, such as fire-door locking, because the part remains locked even during a power outage.
Why buy an electromagnetic holding magnet for your industrial applications?
High holding force
Electromagnetic holding magnets provide a very high holding force, allowing a steel or ferromagnetic part to be secured effectively. They are particularly suited to applications where the hold must be reliable and consistent.
Safety during a power outage
In the event of a power failure or activation of the safety system, the holding magnet releases automatically. This operation is particularly useful for emergency exits and fire safety systems.
Quiet operation
Unlike some mechanical systems, an electromagnetic holding magnet operates with no significant noise when opening or closing. This is a real advantage in environments where user comfort matters.
Low wear and low maintenance
Because there are no mechanical parts in frictional contact, wear is limited. This reduces maintenance requirements and extends the service life of the device.
Easy integration
Electromagnetic holding magnets integrate easily with access-control systems such as badges, keypads, intercoms, or alarms. This makes them suitable for a wide range of uses in both buildings and industrial environments.
Controlled power consumption
Some low-power models reduce energy consumption while maintaining a good holding level. This is particularly useful for sites equipped with many locking points.
Electromagnetic holding magnet manufacturer: Binder Magnetic solutions
Buying your holding magnet from Binder Magnetic means benefiting from full technical support. Our engineering team analyzes your specifications, performs the sizing calculations, and guides you to the model best suited to your environment: temperature, humidity, cycle frequency, and required force.