Optimization of the Guiding Stability of a Horizontal Axis HTS ZFC Radial Levitation Bearing

Abstract

This document presents a study on the optimization of the 3D geometry of a horizontal axis radial levitation bearing with zero-field cooled (ZFC) high-temperature superconductor (HTS) bulks in the stator, and radially magnetized permanent magnet (PM) rings in the rotor. The optimization of component dimensions and spacing to minimize the volume or cost concerning only the maximization of the levitation force was previously studied. The guidance force and guiding stability depend on the spacing between PM rings in the rotor and between the rings of HTS bulks in the stator. This new optimization study aims to find the optimum spacing that maximize the guidance force with given HTS bulk and PM ring dimensions while maintaining the minimum required levitation force. Decisions are taken using the non-dominated sorting genetic algorithm (NSGA-II) over 3D finite element analysis (FEA). A simplified electromagnetic model of equivalent relative permeability is used on 3D FEA to reduce numerical processing and optimization time. Experimental prototypes were built to measure magnetic forces and validate appropriate values of equivalent magnetic permeability. An analysis of stable and unstable geometry domains depending on the spacing between rings of HTS bulks and PM rings is also done for two HTS bulk sizes.