Permanent Magnetic Bearing for Spacecraft Applications

Abstract

A passive permanent magnetic bearing rig prototype was designed and constructed. The suspension of the rotor was provided by two sets of radial permanent magnetic bearings operating in the repulsive mode. The axial support was provided by jewel bearings on both ends of the rotor. Preliminary testing led to successful operation of the bearing prototype to speeds of 5500 rpm using an air impeller. Radial and axial stiffnesses of the permanent magnetic bearings were experimentally measured and then compared to finite element results. The natural damping of the rotor was measured and a damping coefficient was calculated.