Dynamic Performance of Segmented Active Magnetic Thrust Bearings

In this paper, analytic models are developed for segmented cylindrical electromagnetic actuators having a center hole. Analytic models developed are verified via extensive comparison to results obtained by finite-element analysis. Both analytical and finite-element results demonstrate that the segmentation of the stator results in dramatic improvements in actuator dynamic performance by reducing the effect of eddy currents. A doubling of actuator bandwidth can be expected when six stator cuts are introduced.