The Gauss to Pull Force Calculator helps convert a magnetic field strength, measured in Gauss, into pull force, usually measured in Newtons (N) or pounds (lb). This tool is especially useful in magnetic engineering, product design, material handling, and quality control where magnetic pull strength is a key performance metric.
This calculator is classified under the magnetism and force conversion calculator category.
Magnetic pull force represents the amount of force required to pull a magnet away from a metal surface under ideal conditions. Since most magnet manufacturers list field strength in Gauss or Tesla, but users often need pull force for real-world applications, this calculator bridges that gap using a reliable physics-based formula.
formula
Commonly Used Approximate Formula (Ideal Conditions):
F = (B² × A) / (2 × μ₀)
Where:
F = Pull force in Newtons (N)
B = Magnetic flux density in Tesla (T)
(1 Tesla = 10,000 Gauss ⇒ B = Gauss / 10000)
A = Area of magnet pole face in square meters (m²)
μ₀ = Permeability of free space = 4π × 10⁻⁷ H/m
Expanded Formula Using Gauss:
F = ( (Gauss / 10000)² × A ) / (2 × 4π × 10⁻⁷ )
This equation gives a theoretical value based on ideal conditions, meaning the magnet is in full contact with a flat ferromagnetic surface without any air gap.
To Convert Newtons to Pounds:
Force (lb) = Force (N) × 0.224809
This helps users who prefer imperial units over SI units.
Quick Reference Table for Gauss to Pull Force (Theoretical)
This table shows estimated pull force in Newtons for different Gauss levels and magnet face areas.
| Gauss | Area (cm²) | Area (m²) | Force (N) | Force (lb) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1000 | 1 | 0.0001 | 0.40 | 0.09 |
| 2000 | 1 | 0.0001 | 1.59 | 0.36 |
| 3000 | 1 | 0.0001 | 3.58 | 0.80 |
| 4000 | 1 | 0.0001 | 6.37 | 1.43 |
| 5000 | 1 | 0.0001 | 9.95 | 2.24 |
Note: These values are approximations assuming perfect conditions. Actual pull force can be lower due to surface roughness, air gaps, material type, and other environmental factors.
Example
Let’s calculate pull force for a magnet with the following properties:
- Gauss = 3000
- Area of contact = 1 cm² = 0.0001 m²
Step 1: Convert Gauss to Tesla
B = 3000 / 10000 = 0.3 T
Step 2: Use the formula
F = (0.3² × 0.0001) / (2 × 4π × 10⁻⁷)
F = (0.09 × 0.0001) / (2 × 1.2566 × 10⁻⁶)
F ≈ 9 × 10⁻⁶ / 2.5132 × 10⁻⁶
F ≈ 3.58 N
Step 3: Convert to pounds
F (lb) = 3.58 × 0.224809 ≈ 0.8 lb
Final Answer:
Pull force = 3.58 Newtons ≈ 0.8 pounds
Most Common FAQs
This calculator gives a theoretical value based on ideal lab conditions. In real-world usage, actual pull force may be lower due to air gaps, surface texture, coating, or incorrect alignment. However, it is still a valuable estimation tool.
Yes. The calculator can be used for neodymium, ceramic, and other magnets, as long as you input the correct Gauss and pole face area. Just remember, stronger magnets like neodymium will generally show higher Gauss values and thus more pull force.
You can measure Gauss using a Gauss meter or magnetometer. It is important to measure at the magnet surface (pole face) and perpendicular to the field lines for the most accurate results.