Control of Operational Condition of Electromagnetic Devices of Automation Systems

The authors propose a new method of function diagnostics of electromagnetic devices (EMD)of automation systems. They have developed a flowchart of an implementation option with a simple design. A new method of EMD diagnostics is based on eddy currents. As the paper proves, an initial EMD design can be used as an attachable eddy-current converter with one winding that contemporary uses two EMD modes: operational one providing coil supply with low-frequency operating voltage and that of eddy-current control method involving coil supply with high frequency (about 500÷10,000 Hz)and about 1÷10 V low voltage. The required level of decoupling between operating and measuring AC voltage supplies is provided by the proposed design. A movable EMD armature is proposed to be used as a monitored unit (MU). It was shown that measuring data provide continuous control of not only the gap between movable EMD elements during operation, but also many other physical parameters, e.g. surface condition, MU defects, material structure, temperature, mechanical stresses etc. It enables on-line non-destructive EMD control with AC and DC operating voltage supplies.