Active magnetic bearings prove attractive for demanding application

Active magnetic bearings have been available for decades, yet demand from design engineers for higher performance and reduced energy consumption is giving rise to heightened interest in these systems. Jon Severn reports on some of the latest developments and applications.
For the vast majority of applications, engineers can choose the most appropriate rolling-element or plain bearings. Air bearings are suitable for only a limited range of applications, but there is now increasing interest in magnetic bearings or, more precisely, active magnetic bearings.

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