Magnetic Thrust Bearing Optimization Study

Abstract

In industry today magnetic bearings are slowly replacing existing bearings because of its many advantages like less wear and environmentally clean. However, with all the advantages of MTB there are negative aspect in controlling the actuator and power losses associated with the bearing itself. These two drawbacks are the result of the eddy currents produced in these bearings, which are more pronounced in magnetic thrust bearings since the flux lines produced are perpendicular to the surface of the rotor. The report concludes that by slicing the stator into increasing the number of wedges that eddy currents are reduced and the phase lag decrease. The report will examine the difference between the static and rotating cases of magnetic bearings. The development of the dynamic magnetic bearing testing apparatus is fully detailed as well and at the time of this report was in the process of being manufactured.