The Benefits of Magnetic Coupling
A magnetic coupling is made up of two integral parts — a driver (connected to the prime motor) and a follower. These pieces could also be referred to as input and output shafts. The former transfers torque to the latter using magnetism vs. a physical connection. This arrangement allows for physical separation between the two shafts. It’s most often used in magnetic drive pumps, liquid pumps, mine motors, conveyor belt motors, propeller systems, and kiln elevators.
Benefits of Magnetic Coupling
Here are the benefits of using a magnetic coupling:- Separation of the components minimizes or eliminates mechanical vibrations and prevents wear and tear
- Separation allows for the addition of a mechanical barrier between driver and follower, allowing for operation under pressure differentials
- Separation allows for easy maintenance
- Separation allows for higher tolerance of misalignments between motor and load
- Separation allows for a variance in speed and regulation between motor and load
- Separation provides overload protection, avoiding damage to the system
- Separation helps users avoid leakage when used through a surface.
- This is particularly useful when pumping liquid or gas that is corrosive, toxic, flammable, acidic, alkaline, etc.
How to Choose Magnets for Coupling
When it comes to choosing the best kind of permanent magnets for magnetic coupling, you’ll want to use the same type and size magnet for the circuit. You can use neodymium, samarium-cobalt, alnico, or ceramic; however, neodymium is the most commonly used due to its high operating temperature. What else should you look for in magnets for magnetic coupling?- High residual magnetic flux density for magnetic force and torque
- High coercivity (Br) and temperature stability to avoid demagnetization