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Objective
The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) seeks to transfer magnetic bearing technology for use in active control of mechanical vibrations.
Description
Magnetic bearings are electromagnetic devices designed to provide noncontact support for shafts via magnetic forces. The magnetic forces are produced by using electrical current to energize specially configured electromagnetic coils. With the use of a closed-loop control system, the electrical current can be adjusted continuously, thereby modifying the magnetic forces so that stable levitation and vibration control are produced.
Although active magnetic bearings are in limited use, improved performance will be required for aerospace applications. The Lewis Research Center has established the More Electric Engine Project to enable the use of magnetic bearings in future advanced aircraft engines. These engines would operate with no oil, burn 15 percent less fuel, and be more reliable. Under this program, Lewis has increased the load capacity and has explored details of magnetic bearing characteristics that have increased performance. In addition, passive magnetic bearings that may
Benefits
• Noncontacting support
• Active control feature
• No lubrication needed
• Extended machine life
• Reduced maintenance
• Improved reliability
• Fifteen percent lower fuel burn in engines
• Higher rotor speeds obtainable
Potential Application(s)
• Turbomolecular vacuum pumps
• Machine tool spindles
• Petrochemical turbomachinery
• Momentum wheels
• Gyroscopes
• Space, aeronautical, and automotive flywheel batteries
• Commercial aircraft turbine engines
• Auxiliary power units
• Military, aeronautical, and marine engines
Technology Commercialization Status
Seeking partnership with industry to develop and transfer technology.
Related Technologies
Contact
If your company is interested in this technology please contact:
Dexter Johnson
NASA John H. Glenn Research Center At Lewis Field
Phone: (216) 433-6046
E-mail: Dexter.Johnson-1@nasa.gov
Donald Costello
NASA John H. Glenn Research Center At Lewis Field
Phone: (216) 433-6635
FAX: (216) 433-5012
E-mail: Donald.E.Costello@nasa.gov
Public Release Date: 8/12/1998
Reference Number: TOP3-18
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