Which Types of Steel Are Magnetic? Understanding Magnetism in Metals

If you’ve ever tried to stick a magnet to a piece of steel and it didn’t hold, you’re not alone. Not all steel is magnetic — and this fact surprises many people. While steel is generally associated with strength and durability, its magnetic properties vary depending on its composition and structure.

In this article, we’ll explain which types of steel are magnetic, why some are not, and what that means when working with neodymium magnets.

What Makes Steel Magnetic?

Steel is an alloy made primarily of iron (Fe), which is a ferromagnetic element — meaning it can be magnetized or attracted to a magnet. However, steel is often mixed with other elements like carbon, chromium, nickel, and manganese, which can affect its magnetic behavior.

🔍 Rule of thumb:

• More iron = more magnetic
• More austenite (a non-magnetic structure) = less magnetic

Magnetic Steel Types

These steel types are typically strongly magnetic and work well with neodymium magnets:

🧲 Carbon Steel

• Common in tools, brackets, and hardware
• High iron content, low alloying elements
• Very magnetic and ideal for most magnet applications

🧲 Low-Alloy Steel

• Contains small amounts of alloying elements (e.g., manganese, molybdenum)
• Still strongly magnetic in most cases
• Used in structural components and machinery

🧲 Ferritic Stainless Steel (e.g. 430, 409)

• Contains chromium but no nickel
• Magnetic due to its crystal structure
• Used in appliances, automotive parts, and kitchenware

🧲 Martensitic Stainless Steel (e.g. 410, 420)

• Hardenable and magnetic
• Used in knife blades, turbine parts, and medical tools

Non-Magnetic or Weakly Magnetic Steel Types

Some steels are non-magnetic or only weakly magnetic, especially stainless steels with higher nickel content.

❌ Austenitic Stainless Steel (e.g. 304, 316)

• Contains nickel, which stabilizes a non-magnetic (austenitic) crystal structure
• Most common in food processing, medical equipment, and architecture
• Not magnetic in normal conditions
• ⚠️ Sometimes becomes slightly magnetic after cold working (e.g., bending or stamping)

❌ High-Manganese Steel

• Used in applications needing wear resistance
• Non-magnetic despite being iron-based

Why It Matters for Magnet Users

If you’re working with neodymium magnets, knowing the magnetic properties of the steel you’re attaching to is essential.

Use magnetic steel when you want strong holding force, such as:

• Mounting magnets to metal surfaces
• Magnetic tool holders or boards
• Creating magnetic closures or fixtures

Avoid non-magnetic steel if:

• You need the magnet to hold firmly
• You’re building magnetic sensors or DIY electronics
• You’re embedding magnets into stainless steel objects

Quick Steel Magnetism Reference Table

Need Strong Magnets for Steel?

At yourmagnets.net, we offer a wide range of neodymium magnets that work perfectly with magnetic steel surfaces. Whether you’re working with carbon steel, ferritic stainless steel, or mild steel — we have the right magnet for your project.

Browse by pull force:

• 🔹 Up to 1 kg Pull Force
• 🔹 1–2 kg Pull Force
• 🔹 2–4 kg Pull Force
• 🔹 4–6 kg Pull Force
• 🔹 6–8 kg | 8–10 kg | 10–20 kg and more

Have questions about compatibility? Contact us — we’re happy to help!