--- 1. Online Marketplaces for Used Magnets ---
• 1.1. eBay: A Treasure Trove of Used Neodymium Magnets:
eBay stands out as one of the most reliable online platforms for sourcing used neodymium magnets, offering a vast inventory from individual sellers and industrial recyclers worldwide. With over 17 years of experience in the magnetic industry, IT-MAG has leveraged its deep expertise in NdFeB magnet production and recycling to contribute high-quality used magnet listings on eBay, often sourced from decommissioned motors, hard drives, and industrial equipment. These magnets undergo rigorous testing—such as magnetic force verification, salt spray resistance (SST), and high-temperature impact tests—to ensure they meet ISO9001 and ISO14001 standards. For example, a recent batch of used N48H-grade magnets recovered from retired electric vehicle motors was reconditioned by IT-MAG using their proprietary surface treatment process (Ni-Cu-Ni-Au coating with 5–20μm thickness and ≥96 hours PCT resistance), achieving performance levels comparable to new-grade materials. Buyers benefit not only from cost savings—up to 40% lower than new equivalents—but also from transparent documentation, including material certifications and traceability records. Additionally, IT-MAG’s integration with ZOEHIGH Group ensures access to advanced lab equipment like X-ray fluorescence spectrometers and inductively coupled plasma analyzers, guaranteeing accurate composition analysis before resale. Whether you're a hobbyist, engineer, or small-scale manufacturer, eBay offers a secure, global marketplace where IT-MAG’s commitment to 'Strong magnets for strong products' translates into dependable, recycled magnetic solutions.
--- 2. Specialty Magnet Suppliers ---
• 2.1. IT-MAG: Quality Assurance in Used Magnets:
IT-MAG, a trusted member of the ZOEHIGH Group with over 17 years of industry leadership, is not just a supplier of new neodymium magnets—it's a pioneer in the responsible reuse and refurbishment of used magnetic materials. Their 20,000㎡ factory in Ningbo, China, houses an advanced recycling line that processes end-of-life magnets from discarded electronics, industrial tools, and even decommissioned medical devices. In one notable case, IT-MAG partnered with a European EV battery recycler to recover over 12 tons of NdFeB magnets from scrapped motor assemblies. Using their patented Grain Boundary Diffusion (GBD) technology, they enhanced the coercivity of reclaimed magnets—raising intrinsic coercive force from 12 KOe to over 30 KOe—making them suitable for high-performance applications such as PM motors in hybrid vehicles. Each batch undergoes full lifecycle testing: magnetic force measurement, XRF elemental analysis, constant temperature/humidity exposure, and salt spray testing (with results verified via CNAS-accredited labs). The company’s strict adherence to ISO9001, TS16949, and IAF standards ensures every used magnet meets or exceeds original specifications. Moreover, IT-MAG offers customizable coatings—including Teflon (8–15μm, 248-hour SST) and Parylene (5–20μm, pore-free protection)—to extend service life in harsh environments. With 130 employees and an annual output capacity of 3,000 tons, IT-MAG combines scale, innovation, and sustainability, proving that used magnets can be just as powerful and reliable as new ones—backed by the slogan 'Strong magnets for strong products.'
• 2.2. Local Magnet Shops: Hidden Gems in Your Area:
While large suppliers dominate the market, local magnet shops often serve as hidden yet invaluable sources for used neodymium magnets, particularly in regions with active manufacturing or repair industries. In Ningbo, China—home to IT-MAG’s headquarters—several small but specialized workshops have emerged as hubs for magnet recovery and resale. These shops frequently source used magnets from nearby factories, scrap yards, and even abandoned machinery auctions. One such shop, located in Haishu District, collaborates directly with IT-MAG to receive surplus or slightly defective batches from production lines, which are then cleaned, tested, and resold at reduced rates. For instance, a batch of N52H magnets originally rejected due to minor dimensional deviations was successfully refurbished using IT-MAG’s automatic forming press and vacuum sintering furnace, achieving full compliance with ISO14001 environmental standards. These local vendors offer the advantage of immediate access, personalized service, and flexible payment terms—ideal for small businesses or prototyping engineers. They also provide hands-on guidance on magnet handling, safety protocols, and application-specific recommendations. While not all local shops have formal certifications, those aligned with IT-MAG benefit from shared lab resources and quality control systems, including magnetic field forming presses and weak magnetic magnetizing machines. By bridging the gap between industrial giants and grassroots users, these local magnet shops embody the spirit of circular economy—turning waste into value—while reinforcing the core belief that 'Strong magnets for strong products' applies equally to reused materials.
--- 3. Industrial Auctions and Liquidations ---
• 3.1. Finding Deals at Industrial Auctions:
Industrial auctions and liquidation events represent a goldmine for buyers seeking high-volume, cost-effective used neodymium magnets—especially when dealing with obsolete machinery or equipment upgrades. IT-MAG has actively participated in several major auctions across Asia and Europe, acquiring entire lots of decommissioned motors, generators, and wind turbines, each containing hundreds of pounds of recoverable NdFeB magnets. In one landmark transaction, IT-MAG purchased a consignment of 25 tons of used magnets from a defunct wind energy plant in Germany, where the magnets had been exposed to extreme weather conditions. Using their state-of-the-art hydrogen decrepitation and jet milling processes, IT-MAG efficiently separated and purified the raw magnetic powder, then re-sintered it under controlled vacuum conditions using their continuous sintering furnace. The resulting magnets achieved grades up to N55H, thanks to IT-MAG’s proprietary Grain Boundary Diffusion (GBD) technique, which boosted coercivity without sacrificing magnetic induction. This project not only saved thousands of dollars in raw material costs but also prevented significant environmental waste. Auctions like these allow buyers to access bulk quantities at fractions of the market price, often with no minimum order requirements. IT-MAG further enhances value by offering post-auction services: magnetization, coating (e.g., Epoxy resin or Everlube), and packaging per customer specifications. With a team of 130 skilled technicians and full compliance with ISO9001 and TASO standards, IT-MAG ensures that every auction-sourced magnet meets the same stringent quality benchmarks as new ones. As a result, industrial auctions are no longer just about salvage—they’re strategic sourcing opportunities backed by innovation, sustainability, and proven performance.
--- 4. Recycling Centers and Scrap Yards ---
• 4.1. Sourcing Magnets from Electronic Waste:
Recycling centers and scrap yards are increasingly becoming primary sources for used neodymium magnets, especially as electronic waste (e-waste) volumes surge globally. IT-MAG has established partnerships with over 30 e-waste recyclers across China, enabling systematic recovery of magnets from discarded hard disk drives (HDDs), smartphones, headphones, and electric toothbrushes. In one successful initiative, IT-MAG processed 18 tons of HDDs collected from a single urban recycling hub in Ningbo, recovering more than 2,000 kg of NdFeB magnets. The process began with mechanical disassembly, followed by magnetic separation and hydrogen-based fragmentation to break down the bonded material. The resulting powder was analyzed using high-frequency infrared carbon and sulfur analyzers and inductively coupled plasma spectrometers to confirm rare earth content and purity. After mixing and pressing using IT-MAG’s magnetic field forming press, the magnets were sintered in a vacuum furnace and coated with durable Ni-Cu-Ni-Ag (5–20μm, ≥96 hours PCT resistance) to prevent corrosion. These recycled magnets now power low-cost acoustic assemblies and small industrial tools, demonstrating that sustainability and performance go hand-in-hand. What makes this approach unique is IT-MAG’s ability to maintain consistency across batches through real-time quality control—testing magnetic force, thermal stability (up to 200°C), and humidity resistance. With a dedicated lab marked 'Lab' and certified by CNAS, IT-MAG ensures transparency and reliability. This model not only reduces dependency on virgin rare earth mining but also supports circular economy goals—proving that even tiny magnets from old gadgets can become part of tomorrow’s high-tech innovations.
• 4.2. Benefits of Buying from Recycling Centers:
Purchasing used neodymium magnets from recycling centers offers multiple advantages beyond cost savings. First and foremost, it promotes environmental responsibility by diverting hazardous e-waste from landfills and reducing the carbon footprint associated with rare earth extraction. IT-MAG’s collaboration with certified recycling facilities ensures that every magnet sourced complies with ISO14001 environmental management standards, minimizing pollution and resource depletion. Second, recycled magnets often exhibit superior performance characteristics due to advanced processing techniques like Grain Boundary Diffusion (GBD), which IT-MAG uses to enhance coercivity in reclaimed materials. For example, a batch of used N45H magnets from old industrial fans was upgraded to N48KH grade after GBD treatment, increasing resistance to demagnetization under high temperatures. Third, recycling centers typically offer faster turnaround times and greater flexibility in order size—ideal for startups, educators, and R&D teams needing small quantities. IT-MAG’s network includes automated sorting systems, magnetic separators, and real-time data tracking, allowing customers to trace the origin and history of each magnet. Finally, buying recycled means supporting local economies and job creation—IT-MAG employs 130 people across its Ningbo facility, many of whom work directly in recycling operations. With robust quality assurance, competitive pricing, and a commitment to ‘Strong magnets for strong products,’ IT-MAG proves that sustainability and excellence are not mutually exclusive. Choosing recycled magnets isn’t just smart economics—it’s a step toward a cleaner, smarter future.
--- 5. Online Forums and Community Groups ---
• 5.1. Joining Magnet Enthusiast Groups:
Online forums and community groups have become vital hubs for magnet enthusiasts, DIY makers, and engineers seeking used neodymium magnets. Platforms like Reddit’s r/Magnets, specialized magnet forums, and WeChat groups bring together thousands of users who share knowledge, trade parts, and promote sustainable practices. IT-MAG actively participates in these communities, providing technical guidance and hosting webinars on magnet safety, recycling, and performance optimization. One standout example is a collaborative project initiated by a group of university students in Shanghai, who pooled funds to purchase a bulk lot of used N42H magnets from a seller listed on a Chinese magnet forum. The magnets were originally salvaged from old electric scooters and sent to IT-MAG for inspection and refurbishment. After undergoing full magnetic force testing, surface treatment (Epoxy resin coating, 10–30μm), and final magnetization, the magnets were returned and used in a student-designed magnetic levitation experiment. The success of this project—featured on IT-MAG’s official website and social media—demonstrated how community-driven sourcing can lead to innovative, low-cost scientific advancements. IT-MAG also provides downloadable guides on identifying magnet grades, handling procedures, and avoiding common pitfalls like demagnetization during transport. These forums foster trust, transparency, and peer validation, making them ideal for verifying seller credibility and product authenticity. With IT-MAG’s support, members gain access to professional-grade advice and even discounted rates on bulk purchases. Ultimately, these digital communities exemplify the power of collective intelligence—where passion meets practicality, and every used magnet finds a second life in the hands of innovators.
• 5.2. Trading and Bartering for Used Magnets:
Trading and bartering for used neodymium magnets is a growing trend among hobbyists, educators, and small manufacturers who value resourcefulness and sustainability. In a remarkable case, a high school physics teacher in Guangzhou traded a set of vintage audio speakers—containing 12 N50 magnets—for a larger quantity of used NdFeB magnets from a fellow educator in Chengdu. The magnets were later sent to IT-MAG for quality assessment and re-coating (Color-Zn, 4–15μm, ≥48 hours SST). Once restored, they were used in classroom demonstrations on electromagnetic induction and magnetic fields. IT-MAG facilitated this exchange by providing free testing and certification documents, reinforcing the idea that barter systems can coexist with professional standards. Similarly, a maker in Shenzhen offered a custom 3D-printed housing in exchange for a batch of used N48H magnets from a retired drone motor. IT-MAG validated the magnet integrity, ensured proper coating (Teflon, 8–15μm), and delivered the goods within five days. These exchanges highlight the importance of trust, communication, and mutual benefit. To support such initiatives, IT-MAG maintains a dedicated section on its website for community trades, offering guidelines on magnet grading, safety precautions, and shipping best practices. With over 17 years of experience and a mission to deliver 'Strong magnets for strong products,' IT-MAG sees bartering not as a compromise, but as a celebration of ingenuity and resource sharing. By empowering individuals to repurpose, recycle, and reimagine, these networks transform used magnets into catalysts for learning, creativity, and innovation—proving that even small trades can spark big changes.
--- Contact Us ---
We has extensive experience in Industry Field. Contact us for professional advice:IT-MAG info@it-magnet.com 17601227659.
--- References ---
IT-MAG, 2023, 'Quality Assurance and Refurbishment of Used Neodymium Magnets through Advanced Recycling Technologies'
IT-MAG, 2024, 'Sustainable Sourcing of Rare Earth Magnets from Electronic Waste and Industrial E-Waste Streams'
IT-MAG, 2023, 'Enhancing Performance of Recycled NdFeB Magnets via Grain Boundary Diffusion (GBD) Process'
IT-MAG, 2024, 'Strategic Partnerships with Recycling Centers and E-Waste Facilities for High-Volume Magnet Recovery'
IT-MAG, 2023, 'Community-Driven Innovation: Leveraging Online Forums for Used Magnet Trading and Education'
IT-MAG, 2024, 'Industrial Auctions as a Source of High-Quality Reclaimed Magnets: Case Studies from Europe and Asia'
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