Magnetic Testing and Calibration Laboratory

No, B (magnetic induction or flux density) and Br (remanence) are not the same, even though they are expressed in the same units (Tesla or Gauss). B is the value of magnetic induction present in a specific piece or at a specific point under given magnetization conditions (for example, in an already magnetized magnet or within an applied field).

Br, by contrast, is a characteristic property of the material—determined using a permeameter from the hysteresis curve—that represents the induction remaining when the magnetizing field is reduced to H = 0 after the material has been magnetized. Consequently, two magnets may yield different B values ​​during a specific measurement (depending on factors such as geometry, the magnetic circuit, air gaps, and the state of magnetization), even if the material itself has a similar Br.

Our laboratory offers both accredited and non-accredited services:

• Accredited services are provided under the ENAC ISO/IEC 17025:2017 system and are issued as accredited certificates/reports, which include the accreditation number (LC10.260 for the calibration of gaussmeters/teslameters and permanent magnets, and LE2882 for the measurement of magnetic dipole moment).
• The non-accredited activities include, among others, magnetism measurements and tests, mechanical testing, controlled-atmosphere testing, materials analysis, and dimensional control; however, their results are not presented as accredited.

An accredited certificate is issued within the scope of ENAC ISO/IEC 17025 accreditation (at IMA: LC10.260 for the calibration of Hall-effect gaussmeters, magnetic induction meters, and permanent magnets; and LE2882 for the measurement of magnetic dipole moment). It is audited by national accreditation bodies (such as ENAC in Spain), which ensures metrological traceability to national/international standards and provides global recognition.

A non-accredited certificate may be issued by the same laboratory but without the oversight of an accreditation body; while valid for internal quality control purposes, it carries less regulatory weight.

Thanks to the ILAC Mutual Recognition Arrangement (ILAC MRA), our accredited certificates are accepted in over 100 countries without the need for recalibration, facilitating international trade and global regulatory compliance.

We currently perform calibrations at our facilities, ensuring the controlled environmental conditions required by the ENAC ISO/IEC 17025 standard. This guarantees maximum precision and traceability. For large equipment or items that cannot be transported, please consult with our team to explore customized solutions.

Using our permeameter, we obtain the material’s hysteresis curve by performing measurements in accordance with the UNE-EN ISO 60404-7 standard, yielding the following:

• Remanence (Br): Residual magnetic induction
• Coercivity (Hci/Hcb): Resistance to demagnetization
• Maximum energy product (BHmax): Storable magnetic energy
• Full hysteresis loop: Behavior under magnetization cycles

This makes it possible to validate the quality of the magnetic material and detect variations with respect to specifications.

Thanks to our material testing, we can:

• Identify the material of a magnet using X-ray spectrophotometry (X-ray fluorescence), which allows for non-destructive identification.
• Identifying a polymeric or plastic coating using infrared spectrophotometry (IR-ATR)—a technique that operates at the molecular level—allows for the identification of the specific type of polymer, adhesive, or organic coating.
• Using electromagnetic induction, in accordance with the UNE-EN ISO 2178 standard, we measure the thickness of organic and inorganic coatings on ferromagnetic substrates—an ideal method for monitoring galvanized layers, paints, lacquers, etc.

We offer a wide range of mechanical tests, selecting the applicable standard based on the material and the geometry of the test specimen:

• Mechanical tension testing (using extensometers): the test specimen is subjected to an increasing load until failure or until a specified criterion is met, with deformation measured via extensometers to ensure precision within the elastic and/or plastic regions.
• Compression: a controlled axial load is applied to evaluate the material’s behavior under compressive stress.
• Bending: the test specimen is subjected to a bending force (in accordance with a specific configuration and standard) to verify its ductility, integrity, and/or flexural strength.

We have high-precision equipment:

• Three-dimensional measuring machine: Micrometric precision for complex geometries
• Vision measuring machine: Non-contact dimensional inspection.
• Profile projector: For 2D contour measurement
• Calibrated mechanical instruments: Calipers, micrometers, dial indicators

To expedite the process, include:

• Clear identification of each sample
• Specific requested tests
• Applicable standards or specifications, if any.
• Safety information if the sample presents special risks.

Of course! Our team can help you:

• Determine which tests you need based on your application
• Interpret the results of previous trials
• Design quality control plans
• Optimize magnetic specifications

We provide you with a detailed report containing an analysis of deviations.

In addition, we can:

• Conduct supplementary tests to identify the root cause
• Propose corrective actions
• Connect with our magnetic engineering division for redesigns or improvements