The magnetic Bearing system is an innovative approach to support rotating equipment, achieving the performance levels not previously possible with the transitional rolling elements or fluid film bearing technologies. Magnetic bearings are non-contacting, which have significant benefits such as friction, active vibration control, reduced energy consumption, and the elimination of bearing wear. In the application of Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC), Magnetic bearings are suitable for magnetic bearing chiller because they are sensitive to contamination, lubrication-free, and eliminate maintenance.
Magnetic Bearing
The magnetic bearings are a technology that allows the compressor for oil and friction-free operation that reduces energy losses and increases the heat transfer efficiency of the chiller. Bearing alone is a machine that constricts relative motion to the desired movement. Moreover, the bearing also reduces friction between the moving parts. Now, most bearing use oil or lubrication to improve movement reducing friction as much as possible. The use of oil enhances the need for regular maintenance, which can be an inconvenience. On the other hand, the magnetic bearing does not use oil or any lubrication, eliminating the frequency of repair on a machine. Magnetic bearings also improve the inner workings of the compressor by reducing energy due to friction. The heat transfer efficiency also increases because no oil goes into the evaporator or condenser component of the HVAC system.
Main Components of Magnetic Bearing
Following are the three main components of the magnetic bearing system
- Stator and Rotor
- Position sensor
- Magnetic Bearing Controller (MBC)
These are core components of the system which will work together to achieve this level of performance. The magnetic bearing consists of stationary (stator) components and rotating (rotor). These are called the essential rolling components and have basic design operations. Apart from this, the bearing stator’s position can determine the condition of position analysis. The Magnetic Bearing Controller (MBC) is the system’s brain that takes the data from the position sensors and delivers power as required to each magnetic bearing to keep the system stable and under control. This function energy reduces the overflow of fuel or any other damage.
How do Magnetic Bearings Work?
The main principle of magnetic bearings is that they use electromagnetic forces to keep the relative position of the rotor or rotating assembly to a stationary component. The working method basis is on eddy currents inside a rotating conductor. If any electrically conducting material moves inside the magnetic field, the resulting draft will generate in the material to counter the changes within the magnetic field. This method refers to Lenz Law. One of the main benefits of magnetic bearings is that they can support moving parts without any physical contact reducing mechanical wear and creating low friction.
Mainly used for this active bearing is that of:
- Commercial systems of cooling and heating.
- Used in high-efficiency blowers
- High-speed compressors
- Organic Rankin Cycle (ORC) systems.
Magnetic Bearing Chiller
The magnetic bearing chillers are designed with an oil-free and friction-less system compared to the conventional oil-system chiller. This chiller will allow the compressor to unload smoothly from maximum to minimum load with superior part-load performance in comfortable cooling applications.
A magnetic bearing chiller differs significantly from other chillers. It stands out because it uses electromagnetic forces to manipulate relative motion to the desired movement. This chiller uses the magnetic bearing cycle or method to cool and keep the compressor working efficiently. As previously mentioned, the chiller is a good option because it does not use oil to operate. Magnetic bearing chillers will use various industrial systems and processes, such as HVAC. Others can include magnetic bearings, such as centrifugal chillers and magnetic bearings used for cooling towers. The good thing about magnetic bearing chillers is that you’ll be able to install them for either an existing component or retrofit the bearing for the existing chiller. Of course, you must ensure that the evaporator and the condenser are in good working condition.
The maintenance and efficiency of the chiller depend on the reduction of friction. The Magnetic systems require considerably less maintenance because of friction reduction throughout the operations. The magnetic compressor applications are involved in a soft start with the capability to reduce the startup stresses that contribute to the long-range maintenance issues.
How does it works?
Because this alternative does not use oil in the compressor, it is a much more efficient cycle. You also don’t need to spend more money on maintaining the machine, which means more savings for you as the consumer. The magnetic bearing chiller also lasts longer, at about 25-plus years. Since the magnetic bearing chiller works without oil, it is also environmentally friendly. The complexity of the chiller is much simpler to understand. The magnetic bearing chiller’s design eliminates the need for pumps, valves, vents, and filters. The magnetic bearing chiller has more advantages over other types of chillers. It can also operate at higher speeds to accommodate various conditions or variables.
Magnetic Bearing Chiller Vs Screw Chiller
Another type of chiller you may see on the market is the screw chiller. What’s the difference between the magnetic bearing chiller and the screw chiller? The screw chiller operates as a liquid chiller using two rotating helical screws, sending the vapour-compressed refrigeration through the cycle. The screw chillers are compact compared to other options. Like the magnetic bearing chiller, it also contains fewer parts and components making it easier to maintain. Which one should you choose? The choice comes down to energy savings, which also means saving money. The magnetic bearing chillers are a clear choice because they don’t use direct contact or oil. This option can reduce energy usage on your HVAC or air conditioner by up to 50 per cent. The magnetic bearings significantly improve the compressor’s performance by cutting costs altogether.
