Pumping or mixing system using a levitating magnetic element, related system components, and related methods
US6758593B1 · kind B1 · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Nov 28, 2000 |
| Grant date | Jul 6, 2004 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Nov 28, 2020 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC F)Mechanical Engineering; Lighting; Heating
- CPC primaryF16C37/005
- WIPO fieldMedical technology
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
A system for pumping or mixing a fluid using a levitating, rotating magnetic bearing and various other components for use in a pumping or mixing system are disclosed. The magnetic bearing is placed in a fluid-containing vessel in close proximity to a superconducting element. A separate cooling source thermally linked to the superconducting element provides the necessary cooling to induce levitation in the magnetic bearing. The superconducting element may be thermally isolated, such that the bearing, the vessel, and any fluid contained therein are not exposed to the cold temperatures required to produce the desired superconductive effects and the resulting levitation. By using means external to the vessel to rotate and/or stabilize the magnetic bearing levitating in the fluid, including possibly rotating the superconducting element itself or moving it relative to the vessel, the desired effective pumping or mixing action may be provided.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.