When sourcing formwork magnets from China, compare the working force under realistic conditions, not just a catalogue’s peak figure. Ask how force was tested, including the steel plate thickness, contact surface, and pull direction. A magnet that holds securely on a clean test plate may slip on a dusty, painted mould. Small differences matter.
Material choice also affects supply risk. The International Energy Agency’s Global Critical Minerals Outlook 2024 reports that China accounted for about 94% of global sintered permanent-magnet production in 2022. That figure concerns the wider magnet industry, not formwork magnets alone; confirm whether a proposed unit uses rare-earth magnets, ferrite, or another design. Request material specifications and batch-level test records. For the assembled product, check coating quality, switch operation, dimensions, and performance after repeated use.
Assess the manufacturer’s process, not only its sample. The World Steel Association reported China produced 1,019 million tonnes of crude steel in 2023, but national output does not guarantee consistent mould compatibility or magnet quality. Ask for production tolerances, inspection procedures, and a sample tested on your own formwork profile. Clarify packaging, lead time, spare parts, and how defects are handled. One imperfect point: supplier documents can look complete while test conditions remain vague. Have both sides agree on acceptance criteria before placing a bulk order.