The low-cost design approach to the active magnetic bearing test stand

Abstract

Active magnetic bearings (AMB) are used in much high-speed application nowadays. Early development usually requires to measure AMB properties outside its application to adjust and optimize control loops and warm-up/lift-down logic. Many laboratories developed their own, more or less complex test-stands. Such as stands are usually expensive and they are not usually applicable for all types of AMB. Magnetic bearings vary in geometry and measuring systems need some adjustments or new parts have to be manufacture to fit the system. There are new technologies that can enhance the stand itself production time and reduce the costs. 3D printed parts and parts widely available in hardware stores support the idea of a low-cost system build. In this paper design requirements for test-stand are discussed alongside the low-cost test stand design proposal employed by AMB.