10mm Neodymium Ball Magnets

Specifications:

• Material: Neodymium (NdFeB) Rare Earth
• Shape: Sphere / Ball
• Diameter: 10mm (±0.1mm tolerance)
• Plating/Coating: Ni-Cu-Ni (Nickel-Copper-Nickel)
• Surface Finish: Polished Silver
• Magnetization: Through the poles (Axial equivalent)
• Max Operating Temperature: 80°C (176°F)

Unlock New Capabilities

• Past Projects If you've already experimented with standard flat neodymium discs or block magnets for simple latching mechanisms, you likely understand their holding power — but you've also experienced how they restrict movement to a single flat plane, completely limiting dynamic mechanical designs.
• Feature Upgrade This 10mm Neodymium Ball Magnet unlocks the ability to build high-strength, 360-degree rotating magnetic ball joints for robotic arms, kinetic sculptures, and custom 3D-printed linkages. Because the magnetic field is concentrated spherically, it also serves as an excellent trigger for multi-axis Hall effect joysticks and rotary encoders, giving you smooth, frictionless position tracking.
• Effort Level: Beginner

Minimum hardware to get started:

• Mechanical housing or 3D-printed socket: to securely capture the magnet while allowing it to rotate.
• Cyanoacrylate (CA) glue or epoxy (optional): if you need to permanently affix the sphere to a rod or structural component.
• Hall Effect Sensor (if using for electronics): like the 3142 IC, to detect the magnetic field changes as the ball rotates or approaches.

Included in the Box:

• 1× 10mm Neodymium Ball Magnet

Frequently Asked Questions

• Are these 10mm ball magnets compatible with standard Hall effect sensors?
  Yes, the concentrated magnetic field at the poles is perfectly suited for triggering Hall effect sensors like the 3142.
• Can I use this for custom 3D printed ball-and-socket joints?
  Absolutely, the smooth nickel plating and spherical shape make them ideal for frictionless, 360-degree rotating mechanical joints.
• Will this attract standard steel ball bearings?
  Yes, a single neodymium ball can easily magnetize and hold multiple standard carbon steel or stainless steel bearings.
• Is the 10mm size compatible with standard MakerBeam slots?
  While the 10mm diameter is slightly too large to slide internally through a standard 10mm extrusion slot, it mounts perfectly to the outer brackets.
• What is the maximum operating temperature for these magnets?
  These magnets are rated for a maximum operating temperature of 80°C (176°F).
• Will this magnet lose its strength over time?
  No, as long as it is kept below 80°C and away from stronger demagnetizing fields, it will retain its magnetism indefinitely.
• How much weight can a single 10mm ball magnet hold?
  Holding force depends entirely on the mating material and surface contact area, but they are exceptionally strong for their size.
• How do I securely mount a spherical magnet in my project?
  Since they cannot be screwed, the best method is using strong Cyanoacrylate (Super Glue) or two-part epoxy inside a fitted pocket.
• Can I drill a hole in the neodymium ball to mount it?
  No, neodymium is a brittle ceramic, and attempting to drill it will cause it to shatter and destroy the protective plating.
• Do I need a non-magnetic housing for sensor triggering?
  Yes, always mount the magnet in plastic, brass, or aluminum housings to prevent the magnetic field from being absorbed by ferrous metals.
• How do I identify the North and South poles of a perfect sphere?
  The easiest way is to use a smartphone magnetometer app or another marked magnet to locate the concentrated pole points.