Experimental High Temperature Characterization of a Magnetic Bearing for Turbomachinery

Abstract : Open loop, experimental force and power measurements of a radial, redundant-axis, magnetic bearing at temperatures to 1000 degrees F (538 degrees C) and rotor speeds to 15,000 RPM along with theoretical temperature and force models are presented in this paper. The experimentally measured force produced by a single C-core using 22A was 600 pounds (2.67 kN) at room temperature and 380 pounds (1.69 kN) at 1000 degrees F (538 degrees C). These values were compared with force predictions based on a 1D magnetic circuit analysis and a thermal analysis of gap growth as a function of temperature. Tests under rotating conditions showed that rotor speed has a negligible effect on the bearing's load capacity. One C-core required approximately 340 watts of power to generate 190 pounds (8.45 kN) of magnetic force at 1000 degrees F (538 degrees C). However, the magnetic air gap was much larger than at room temperature. The data presented is after the bearing had already operated 6 thermal cycles and 11 total (not consecutive) hours at 1000 degrees F (538 degrees C). (23 figures, 9 refs.)