Engineering topics
Publications and source records attributed to Meeks, Crawford R..
Report presents study of feasibility of magnetic bearings in turbopumps. Liquid-oxygen turbopump in space shuttle main engine selected for study. Other potential applications include manned and unmanned spacecraft, gas turbines for commercial and military aircraft, turbomachinery for petro-chemical and gas operations, suspension systems for precise machinery, and precise pointing and tracking systems.
Cryogenic hybrid magnetic bearing is example of class of magnetic bearings in which permanent magnets and electromagnets used to suspend shafts. Electromagnets provide active control of position of shaft. Bearing operates at temperatures from -320 degrees F (-196 degrees C) to 650 degrees F (343 degrees C); designed for possible use in rocket-engine turbopumps, where effects of cryogenic environment and fluid severely limit lubrication of conventional ball bearings. This and similar bearings also suitable for terrestrial rotating machinery; for example, gas-turbine engines, high-vacuum pumps, canned pumps, precise gimbals that suspend sensors, and pumps that handle corrosive or gritty fluids.