- Grade / Alloy
- NiFe44
- EN / W.Nr.
- 2.4420
- AISI / SAE
- —
- UNS
- —
- Family
- Soft magnetic
Chemical composition
Chemical composition
Typical compositionTypical principal-element values for the alloy identified by its material number; not an expansion or magnetic-performance specification on their own.
| Element | Content (% by mass) |
|---|---|
| NiNickel | 55 |
| FeIron | 44 |
Values describe the grade, not the analysis of a specific batch. The applicable product specification and material certificate determine acceptance. A dash does not mean zero.
What does soft magnetic mean?
Soft magnetic does not describe how easily the metal bends. It concerns ready magnetisation and a responsive change as the applied magnetic field changes. 2.4420 is used for these characteristics in the magnetic portions of electrical equipment. Unlike a permanent magnet, the aim is to respond usefully to changing fields rather than retain strong magnetisation.
The principal feature of 2.4420
Magnetic permeability describes how readily a metal carries magnetic flux. 2.4420 is a nickel-iron alloy known for high permeability and its saturation characteristics. These properties are useful within an electrical core, which forms the magnetic path. The response of the material affects how that path contributes to energy transfer or measurement.
Use in magnetic cores
Transformers, measuring transducers and residual-current protection devices illustrate its use. These systems may need to detect a small magnetic change or carry a varying field. Tape-wound cores are component forms suited to this function. Thin strip assembled into a core makes its magnetic role clear, distinct from the structural role of a high-strength body.
Difference from expansion alloys
Iron and nickel can be the base metals of both expansion alloys and magnetic materials. The principal application of 2.4420 is magnetic cores, while Invar and glass-sealing alloys emphasise thermal dimensional change. Similar base metals can therefore serve different purposes: composition and specified characteristics determine the physical function expected of each family.
Typical application areas
Transformer cores, transducers, residual-current devices.
Product and cutting options
Relevant product forms for this material are listed below. Availability varies with grade and dimensions.