Permanent magnets are playing an increasingly critical role in emerging technologies. One company that knows this well is Bakker Magnetics, based in Science Park Eindhoven. With over 50 years of experience, this high-tech company has recently seen rapid growth and a sharp rise in the complexity and international scope of its projects. Known not only for its high-quality magnets and engineering, but also for its proactive, hands-on approach, Bakker Magnetics continues to turn customers’ concepts into high-performance magnetic solutions.
Hands-on specialist in smart magnetic engineering
"Full control over neodymium-magnet production of all grades"
A notable example was the production and assembly of magnet modules for the world’s largest offshore wind turbines. The design of these 12-megawatt turbines had been changed late in the process, creating significant time pressure. “This is highly specialised work for a massive project of huge importance,” says the specialist in Bakker’s Magnetic Technology & Assemblies (MTA) division. “It took our engineers a year to co-develop the magnet modules with the client. That might seem long, but in the context of a mega project like this, it was exceptionally fast. Thanks to our flexibility and responsiveness as a system partner, we made it work.”
“Our engineers bring deep expertise and experience across various markets,” adds the engineer. “We understand our clients and are easy to work with, which makes the co-creation process transparent and dynamic. In this case, we were able to pivot quickly alongside the client. I’d even argue that very few magnetics companies besides Bakker Magnetics could have achieved this result.”
“Here is where we truly stand out from the crowd”
Inhouse production
As one of Europe’s leading magnetics companies, Bakker Magnetics maintains full control over neodymium-magnet production through its joint venture with one of China’s largest magnet factories. “We can manufacture both standard and custom magnet grades in any energy density or temperature resistance required,” explains the engineer. “Our partner in China is constantly innovating, developing grades with better properties or fewer heavy rare-earth elements. Their quality is world-class.”
Yet, Bakker retains full responsibility. “Every magnet is tested in our Dutch quality lab using advanced measurement equipment. Clients receiving subpar magnets simply doesn’t happen. For Bakker, delivering top quality is non-negotiable,” says the specialist.
Smart Magnetic Engineering
Bakker Magnetics serves a global client base, maintaining their stock levels and ensuring smooth supply chains, even during crises like the COVID-19 pandemic. However, the company’s true strength lies in smart magnetic engineering: the development and production of complex magnet assemblies.
“This is where we really stand out,” says the specialist. “Many clients come to us with an initial concept involving permanent magnets. Our role is to refine and optimize it. We calculate the best magnet grade and geometry and then position the magnets with high angular precision. We apply the right adhesives, mechanical fixings or wraps to ensure they withstand extreme forces.”
“Correct coating and accurate assembly mean the magnets can resist harsh conditions,” adds the engineer. “What clients receive is the best solution tailored to their specific application.”
“50 years of knowledge and experience give our clients the lead”
Optimum Performance
According to the engineer, optimal magnet assemblies are essential to the performance of end products. “Take an electric motor: precise magnet positioning boosts output, that’s a fact. Correct adhesion ensures safety and durability with minimal maintenance. During design, we also account for risks like high temperatures, opposing magnetic fields, and corrosion, all of which can lead to demagnetization.”
“For something like a wind turbine, which must perform flawlessly for 25 years, even 0.1% less efficiency could have major long-term costs,” explains the specialist. “So, producing high-performance magnet assemblies is more than just manufacturing, it’s a true specialism.”
Shared Successes
Bakker Magnetics thrives on deep co-engineering partnerships. A recent example was a magnetic arrangement for an MRI scanner designed to analyze oil quality. “It’s a smart, compact product,” says the specialist. “We came up with an ingenious, cost-effective assembly method for the many angled magnets. It’s now ready for series production.”
Another innovation was a magnetic coupling for a reactor vessel mixer, enabling chemical mixing without direct contact. The engineer also highlights Bakker’s collaboration with international universities on magnetic cooling, a field expected to revolutionize energy in the next decade.
Finding Each other
From electric cars and wind turbines to robots and agricultural machinery, magnets are enabling wireless, efficient, and maintenance-free technologies that are rapidly replacing traditional mechanical systems. Bakker Magnetics is helping to drive this shift.
“We’re proud to be at the center of these developments,” says the specialist. “We want companies thinking about magnets to know how to find us. Recently, we made precision magnets for a cochlear implant and a robust magnet system for rail maintenance. These clients didn’t just reach out, we connected at the right time. And that’s the beauty of it.”
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