Failure Analysis of Linear Electromagnetic Actuators Under Disturbing Magnetic Field

Abstract

Linear electromagnetic actuators (LEAs), operated by electromagnetic action, are widely used in various applications, such as switches and solenoid valves. Since it operates on the principle of electromagnetic attraction, it is very sensitive to magnetic field. LEA may fail under the impact of disturbing magnetic field (DMF), thus threatens the stability of the whole system. As the magnetic field around tokamak is very strong, it is of great importance to evaluate the behavior of LEAs under DMF. This article presents the analysis of two different types of LEAs in DMFs. Based on the finite element method, the influences of DMF on the two LEAs are analyzed, and both the opening and closing processes are considered. Analyses show that the piston-type LEA may fail to act under DMF, while the plate-type LEA may malfunction even it is not energized. Based on the analysis, the failure mechanism is revealed, and the failure thresholds of the two LEAs are also quantified. The experimental verifications are carried out, which are in good agreement with the simulation results. The analysis model and the main conclusions presented in this article are of great significance to guide the antimagnetic field design of LEAs and ensure their reliable operations in tokamakxs.