magnetic bearings

[Superchief]

is there a thread that specifically discusses electromagnetism? I am posting to electric motors since I believe there is a lot in common in the subject matter and what I am after, and so I expect I might find engineers with the right expertise here.

Specifically, I want to calculate

- the size (particularly the diameter but also the height) bearing needed to lift to two target forces, 30 & 60 kilograms

- how far the bearing will lift depending upon design decisions (goal is a minimum 1/16 inch, I am aware of the inverse square law)

- whether I can rotate it precisely under microprocessor/DSP control using the bearing as a motor to create the rotation (e.g.: no secondary coil/motor which would add cost)

- get an idea of what design approach is most likely to prove most effective for mass manufacturing if cost is an issue but operational efficiency is not (e.g.: the component operates very intermittently, if it wastes energy it is almost certainly not a significant issue to performance or marketability).

Ideally I'd also like to identify an individual or firm that could design the prototype; already looked at firms like Waukesha/Calnetix and I anticipate that their culture and cost structure will not make sense for my goals though I may yet approach them once I have a clearer understanding of the specification.

 

[EdStainless]

Existing Mag bearings provide a separation of a few thousandths of an inch.
There are also bearing filled magnetic fluids, these use a combination of the fluid and mag field to provide separation.
60kg at 1/16" is likely to take kW power levels.

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P.E. Metallurgy, consulting work welcomed