Not all magnets are the same. While they all produce an invisible field that attracts and repels other magnets — depending on the orientation of the poles — they are available in different types. Permanent magnets, for instance, are characterized by their ability to constantly produce a magnetic field, whereas temporary magnets can be toggled on and off. Superconducting magnets fall under the latter category. Consisting of coils of super-conducting wire, these high-powered magnets can be turned on and off.
#1) Exhibit Zero Electrical Resistance
Superconducting magnets are known for their ability to exhibit zero electrical resistance. They operate on the principle of superconductivity. When the temperature of a superconducting magnet drops low enough, it will enter a state known as superconductivity. It will then exhibit zero electrical resistance.
#2) Operates at Nearly -500 Degrees
To say superconducting magnets operate at a low temperature would be an understatement. To achieve a superconducting state, they must get very cold. A typical superconducting magnet operates at nearly minus 500 degrees Fahrenheit. As the temperature of a superconducting magnet drops, electrons will move more freely.
#3) Available in Different Materials
You can find superconductor magnets in different materials. Some of them are made of metals like lead or mercury. Others are made of alloys like niobium-titanium. There are even ceramic-based superconductor magnets like barium and yttrium. Any material that can exhibit zero electrical resistance at a low enough temperature can be used in a superconductor magnet.
#4) Used in MRI Machines
Superconductor magnets are used in magnetic resonance machines (MRIs). MRIs, of course, are medical devices that create 3D images of bodies. They leverage superconductor magnets to create these images. During use, the MRI’s superconductor magnet will align itself with the atoms of the patient’s body. It will then emit radio waves to push the atoms out of alignment. Upon turning off the radio waves, the atoms will revert to their original position. A computer will receive these radio signals and convert them into 3D images of the patient’s body.
#5) Stronger Than Neo Magnets
When most people think of super-strong magnets, they envision neo magnets. Neo magnets are powerful permanent magnets made of the rare-earth metal known as neodymium. While neo magnets are strong, however, superconductor magnets are even stronger.
#6) Cooled With Liquid Helium
Many superconductor magnets are cooled with liquid helium. Liquid helium allows superconductor magnets to achieve a very low temperature, which is necessary for them to enter and maintain a superconducting state.