"Weight is only good for steam rollers!" is a quote from a yacht person who's name I can't remember. If anyone know's who said it I would appreciate knowing.
I believe the quote is relevant with respect to the use of rare earths. I have appreciated the earlier comments that have been made especially by Ausheds that there is a move away from Dy and to Nd/Pr with respect to new performance magnets. That said ltl has raised the point that these magnets will be heavier.
Imho the weight of magnets I believe is extreme relevant. Take for example wind turbines.
I would think that as wind turbines become larger, probably with over 100 metre towers, due to carbon fibre composite blades with carbon nano tubes included in the composite. This allows for low weight and most importantly stiff, wind turbine blades which is especially important as wind turbine towers cannot be stayed or supported in a manner that will effect the movement of the blades around the tower due to wind changes.
It would seem only reasonable that the weight of the generator, with its magnets, sitting on top of a 100+ metre tower that cannot flex to any great degree, is extremely important. So when is the use of the more expensive Dy cost effective over the use of Nd/Pr? I would like any comments.
Cheers
Stoops
NTU Price at posting:
16.5¢ Sentiment: None Disclosure: Not Held
A personalised tool to help users track selected stocks. Delivering real-time notifications on price updates, announcements, and performance stats on each to help make informed investment decisions.
(20min delay)