Superconducting levitation analysis of a flywheel system using H-formulation

Abstract

In this research study, two-dimensional axisymmetric finite element model based on the H-formulation was studied to analyze the levitation characteristics of a flywheel system by COMSOL Multiphysics 5.3. This model provides the designer with some reliable guidelines for electromagnetic behaviours of the flywheel system. Levitation forces are generated through separate interaction for axial and radial bearing in such an application. However, the use of more than one permanent magnet (PM) with a single ring-shaped superconductor can provide higher stiffness characteristic. To ensure this condition, the proper polarization of the permanent magnets is a key factor. The effect of polarity is investigated through the distributions of the induced current density and the force characteristic. Finally, the effectiveness of the simulation method has been validated through comparisons with experimentally obtained values.