Analytical modeling and experimental validation of the six pole axial active magnetic bearing

Abstract

The article presents a novel design of the axial active magnetic bearing with six poles. An analytical magnetic bearing model was developed to provide the axial magnetic induction distribution in 3D. The model utilizes magnetic vector potential formulation and Schwarz-Christoffel mapping. The paper covers in-depth deliberations on the end effect influence and the conjugate complex permeance function. Numerical model and simulations were provided in 3D mode with support of COMSOL Multiphysics software. The six pole axial active magnetic bearing was manufactured and investigated experimentally. Identification of the magnetic field distribution was carried out with a single axis magnetic induction sensor using custom automatic field scanner. High convergence of the modeling results and experimental research was demonstrated. The main advantage of the proposed analytical method is significantly shorter computation time compared to the numerical one that is useful from the modeling and controller study point of view. The configuration, modeling, simulation and experimental investigation results are well illustrated for the better overview.