Magnetic Strips
Magnetic strips are thin pieces of flexible magnetic rubber material that usually has an adhesive on one side and can conform to irregular or uneven surfaces. They are the most inexpensive type of magnetic shape made from a mixture of ferrite magnet powder and rubber material, and are formed by the extrusion process. These flexible strips come in large rolls and are used to make signs, refrigerator magnets, craft supplies, markers and advertising boards. In switches and sensory devices, magnetic strips provide noise and vibration dampening. Magnetic strips are most often used in sealing applications. Latching, gaskets, door seals, shower and bathroom sealing and refrigerator door sealing are all accomplished with the use of magnetic rubber strips. They are almost always made with some sort of adhesive backing.
Basic strips of magnetic rubber are uncoated and a dark brown color. They all have a weak and strong magnetic side, are cut easily, are lightweight and are permanent magnets and therefore reusable. Their width ranges from .5 to 2 inches, while their thickness is anywhere from .03 to 1 inch thick. The most common thickness is .6 inches, which provides enough strength for most strip applications. The adhesive backing may be foam or a pressure-sensitive backing material, that is rubber-based for indoor and craft applications, or acrylic-based, which adheres to plastics and vinyls for both indoor and outdoor uses. Some magnetic strips have a vinyl outer coating, which provides a wide range of color options. Steel backing also provides more bonding strength.