The use of Dy (dysprosium) is essential to improve the heat resistance of Nd (neodymium) magnet. However, Dy resource and supply is limited. Because of this, the development of a technology that maximizes the effectiveness of Dy is important.

Hitachi Metals'new manufacturing method uses a specialized vapor deposition/diffusion technology that makes controlling the Dy concentration distribution within a magnetic material possible. Surprisingly, not only has this technology proven to be the most effective and easiest production process developed for this purpose, it also helps improve the performance of magnetic materials. The Company verified that sintered neodymium magnets made using this new method are able to maintain the same remanence compared with the same Nd component ratio displayed by the Company's existing NEOMAX^® while increasing intrinsic coercivity by 320kA/m (4kOe)* or above.

Furthermore, this technology makes it possible to increase remanence by 40mT (400G)* and above while preserving intrinsic coercivity equal to that of existing products.

The Company is currently conducting production trials for customers with the aim of expanding the application of this technology sequentially and in response to specific customer requests.

    *The effect depends on process condition, size and shape of a magnet.