Numerical analysis and evaluation of electromagnetic forces in superconducting magnetic bearings and a non-contact permanent magnetic clutch

Abstract

We are currently developing a superconducting magnetic bearing and a non-contact permanent magnetic clutch applicable to flywheel energy storage systems for railways. This paper reports on electromagnetic force analysis concerning these developments. In the analysis, the electromagnetic force generated in superconducting magnetic bearings and non-contact permanent magnetic clutches was estimated based on the magnetic field distribution ascertained through 3D numerical analysis. The validity of this analysis was then evaluated by comparing the results with experimental outcomes, and the two were found to be consistent. It was therefore confirmed that the analysis was an effective way of estimating the electromagnetic force of electromagnetic equipment containing the bulk superconductor for use in application design.