Stable operation of induction-type bearingless motors under loaded conditions

A control method, which realizes stable operation in induction-type bearingless motors under loaded conditions, is proposed. Without a proposed control method, both the amplitude and the direction of radial force vary in accordance with loads. These variations result in interferences of radial force commands in two perpendicular axes. The interferences become a serious problem as a load increases. A shaft finally touches down without proper compensation. It is found that a decoupling of the radial force commands can be realized with compensation of both amplitude and phase angle of four-pole motor current. A decoupling controller is proposed with the principle of a field-oriented controller of conventional induction motors. The results of experiments show the validity of compensations. It is shown that induction-type bearingless motors can be operated stably under loaded conditions, as well as transient conditions.