Whirl Imposer --- Proposal for a Novel Passive Magnetic Rotor Bearing System

Passive magnetic bearing systems are enticing in applications where low stiffness is acceptable, but where cost, life-time, power consumption and reliability are critical. This article investigates a new proposal for stabilization of permanent magnet (i.e. passive) bearing systems based on rotor precession. There will be a minimal and a maximal rotational speed for stable contact-free levitation. The feasibility of this new stabilization scheme is investigated with the help of realistic numerical data, a demonstration system is currently in planning.