Magnetics Importance For Electric Vehicles At Cenex-LCV

Cenex-LCV will take place at UTAC Millbrook Proving Ground, Bedfordshire, UK from 23rd to 24th September 2021.

In particular focus is the technique of magnetizing magnet assemblies after construction, which offers a wide range of benefits including accuracy and safety.

Bunting is one of the world’s leading designers and manufacturers of magnets, magnet assemblies and magnetising equipment. The Bunting European engineering and manufacturing facilities are in Berkhamsted and Redditch, both in the United Kingdom.

The LCV (Low Carbon Vehicles) event is run by Cenex, the UK's first centre of excellence for low carbon and fuel cell technologies with assistance from supporting partners.

The number of electric vehicles on the world’s roads is expected to exceed 250 million by 2030. Presently, each electric vehicle includes between two and five kilogrammes of permanent magnets, including high-strength rare earth neodymium. Magnets help form the traction drive to provide motive power to the vehicle, whilst also driving the window wipers, electric windows, instrumentation, and an array of engine parts. For electric vehicles, magnets are simply fundamental.
The efficiency of the magnet and magnet assembly directly affects the performance of the electric vehicle. Subsequently, specifications are getting tighter in terms of space and functionality.

With the aim of simplifying the manufacturing process and improving safety, Bunting’s technical engineering team developed technology for post-assembly magnetisation. Subsequently, a complex magnet assembly is constructed unmagnetized and then charged.

There are many advantages to post-assembly magnetisation. Constructing the magnet assembly is easier and the time is taken shorter. There is also a reduced risk of mistakes occurring during assembly (e.g., incorrect polarity orientation). Post-magnetisation means that the polarity and magnetic field are exactly as required for every magnetic component. This type of component consistency is ideal for the automotive sector.

“Maximising the performance of an electric vehicle is directly related to the tight specifications of the individual components, including magnets and magnet assemblies,” explained Matthew Swallow, Bunting’s Technical Product Manager. “Post assembly magnetisation is the only way to meet and exceed such tolerances. We are looking forward to helping companies in the electric vehicle sector.”