A Pragmatic Optimization of Axial Stack-Radial Passive Magnetic Bearings

Passive magnetic bearing's (PMB) adaptability for both lower and higher speed applications demands detailed and critical analysis of design, performance optimization, and manufacturability. Optimization techniques for stacked PMB published in recent past are less accurate with respect to complete optimum solution. In this context, the present work deals with a pragmatic optimization of axially stacked PMBs for the maximum radial load using three-dimensional (3D) equations. Optimization for three different PMB configurations, monolithic, conventional, and rotational magnetized direction (RMD), is presented based on the constraints, constants, and bounds of the dimensions obtained from published literature. Further, to assist the designers, equations to estimate the mean radius and clearance being crucial parameters are provided for the given axial length and outer radius of the stator with the objective of achieving maximum load-carrying capacity. A comparison of the load-carrying capacity of conventional stacked PMB using the proposed equation with the equation provided in literature is compared. Finally, effectiveness of the proposed pragmatic optimization technique is demonstrated by analyzing three examples with reference to available literature.