Development of a compact, light weight magnetic bearing

A compact, lightweight radial-load bearing has been devised with permanent magnet bias and actively controlled radial loading. The novel design uses permanent magnets to generate a coaxial magnetic field that energizes two radial air gaps. Two electromechanical stators modulate the airgap field in order to impart stability and control. Attention is given to the implementation of this design in an application involving operation at ambient and cryogenic temperatures at loads of up to 500 lbs. Stiffnesses of up to 17,500 N/mm have been obtained.