Theory and Test Correlation for Laminate Stacking Factor Effect on Homopolar Bearing Stiffness

Abstract

The effect of the laminate stacking factor on homopolar magnetic bearing performance is examined. Stacked laminates are used on the bearing rotor and in the stator. These laminate stacks have anisotropic permeability. Equations for the effect of the stacking factor on homopolar bearing position stiffness are derived. Numerical results are calculated and compared to measurements. These results provide an answer for the common discrepancy between test and theory for homopolar magnetic bearing position stiffnesses.