This paper explores recent material development for Soft Magnetic Composites (SMC) which are based on pure iron metal powders combined with inorganic resistive coatings. SMC components are manufactured by compaction in a shaped tool followed by heat-treatment of the component for stress relaxation and to reach optimal magnetic and mechanical performance.

The recently developed Somaloy^® 5P SMC materials are presented and compared to former technology. The unique combination of material properties and manufacturing process is here concluded to enable possibilities to realize compact and efficient high-frequency electromagnets, a technique that can be an interesting opportunity for large volume, cost efficient magnetic bearings and bearingless applications.