Magnetkettad

Magnetkettad is a term used to describe a chain-like arrangement of magnets held together primarily by magnetic attraction. The word is most commonly encountered in Nordic contexts, where kettad denotes linked or chained, and magnet- refers to magnetic components. In practice, a magnetkettad consists of individual magnets—often small neodymium or ferrite magnets—mounted to allow rotation and alignment, so that adjacent magnets attract to form a flexible chain. Some designs incorporate non-magnetic connectors to maintain spacing and guide the chain’s shape.

Principles and construction: The chain forms along the direction of the magnetic dipole interactions. The ends of the chain may terminate with magnets oriented to stabilize a linear configuration, while bends occur where the chain reorients. The behavior is influenced by magnet strength, geometry, and mechanical friction. Materials commonly used include strong permanent magnets and lightweight housings that permit rotation and articulation.

Applications: Magnetkettad is used in education to illustrate magnetic fields, dipole interactions, and basic mechanics. It also appears in modular prototyping and demonstrations of chain-like linkage. Some artists and designers employ magnetkettad-inspired assemblies for interactive sculpture or tactile demonstrations.

Safety and limitations: Magnets can pinch fingers and may attract ferrous objects unexpectedly. Strong magnets can interfere with electronics. Magnets may lose strength if heated beyond their temperature tolerance. Designs should consider magnetization direction and spacing to maintain desired chain behavior.

See also: Magnetic dipole, Magnetic chain, Magnetic assembly.