What's the difference between electromagnetic and electro-permanent fixtures?

What's the difference between electro-permanent magnetic fixtures and electromagnetic fixtures? Both are commonly used industrial fixtures. Although they serve similar functions, their working principles and characteristics differ.

Electromagnetic clamps are devices that use electromagnetic force to clamp workpieces. They operate by generating a magnetic field through electrical current, attracting the workpiece surface to achieve clamping. In contrast, permanent magnet clamps utilize permanent magnetic force for clamping workpieces, producing a magnetic field through permanent magnets to attract the workpiece surface and achieve clamping.

In practical applications, electromagnetic clamps and electro-permanent magnets each have their own advantages and disadvantages. Electromagnetic clamps, powered by electromagnetic coils to generate a magnetic field, offer strong clamping force, quick operation, and suitability for large-sized workpieces. However, they require a continuous power supply to maintain the clamping state, and in the event of a power outage, the workpiece cannot be held securely. Additionally, the electromagnetic waves produced by electromagnetic clamps can cause interference and harm to surrounding equipment and personnel.

In contrast, electromagnetic clamps utilize permanent magnets to generate a magnetic field, offering advantages such as stable clamping force, no need for external power supply, energy conservation, and environmental friendliness. Additionally, electromagnetic clamps possess certain waterproof, dustproof, and explosion-proof capabilities, making them suitable for use in relatively harsh environments. However, due to the relatively weak magnetic field of the permanent magnet, the clamping force of the electromagnetic clamp is also relatively small, and it is only suitable for clamping small-sized workpieces.