Magnetic Wand
Definition
A stylus containing a retractable internal magnet that draws magnetic powder into a cluster at the tip for application to surfaces; retraction of the magnet releases excess powder without touching the substrate.
- Structure
- Stylus with a retractable internal magnet
- Function
- Draws magnetic powder into a cluster at the tip
- Release mechanism
- Retracting the magnet releases excess powder
- Contact with substrate
- Minimal to none
Common questions
How does retracting the magnet in a magnetic wand release the powder?+
Pulling the internal magnet back into the handle removes the magnetic field holding the iron-oxide particles at the tip, so they fall away, letting the examiner control how much powder stays on the surface.
Why does a magnetic wand cause less surface damage than a fiberglass brush?+
The powder cluster itself contacts the surface rather than rigid bristles, so there is less abrasive pressure, which matters on delicate, curved, or textured items where a brush could scratch or disturb the print.
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