Standardized measurements of interaction forces in autostable superconducting magnetic bearings

Passive magnetic bearings involving superconductors combined with permanent magnets have great potential for future utilization in systems that are exceptionally critical concerning friction and wear. In the field of power systems, possible applications of these superconducting magnetic bearings include flywheels and cold machines such as generators, motors and cold compressors. Present bearing designs are based on the high-temperature superconductor YBa₂Cu₃O₇. In order to investigate the capabilities of these materials and to establish an optimized bearing design, we have built a system that allows precise and reproducible measurements of interaction forces between permanent magnets and superconductors. Different sizes and geometries and various configurations can be accommodated. Our intention is to contribute to a standardization of the experimental technique.