Prediction of Rotating Losses in Heteropolar Radial Magnetic Bearings

Abstract

Previously, thin plate assumptions have been used to obtain a one-dimensional eddy current model for predicting the stationary, transformer-type losses in magnetic bearings built out of laminated material. Using similar assumptions, as in the 1-D eddy current model, rotating losses can be predicted for a laminated heteropolar radial magnetic bearing. The thin plate model of rotating losses yields a hybrid analytical-boundary element model that is computationally inexpensive to implement. Predictions from this model compare favorably to losses experimentally measured in rotor run-down tests.