Wind turbine rotor magnetic levitation

Abstract

The paper presents the study of advantages and disadvantages of magnetic levitation support for wind turbines. There are many studies on the usage of these devices internationally; and the real wind turbines are being sold. However, we may see not only the advantages but also some negative sides of the so-called “magnetic bearing”. Thus, the question of their possible usage at bigger turbines and its economical feasibility? Thus, the issue is actual due to interest of engineers to its solving. We have determined the reasons of such invention popularity and analysed the main design approaches. This research includes calculation of magnetic support and cost estimation of the levitating wind turbine, which shows that the economic efficiency of this approach is extremely low and ineffective to be used in commercial products.