Abstract: Magnetic Friction Reducers (Magfriders)

A "Magfrider" is an electronic replacement for ball bearings used in moveable parts of machines. The system includes an array of electro-magnets placed on two concentric wheels: the Internal Rotating Wheel (IRW) and the Outer Stationary Wheel (OSW). Electro-magnets are aligned in such a way that poles of magnets from the IRW face like poles of magnets from the OSW. The IRW is connected to an axel from other machines while the OSW is clamped to a rigid surface. Assuming that magnets in the system are powerful enough, the IRW levitates inside the OSW.

 

Magfriders can have many applications but an important one would be in the field of electricity generation. In a power house, two Magfrider Wheels can be used to hold the axel joining turbines with generators. Since Magfriders prevent physical contact between moveable parts, friction in the power-plant is reduced drastically, resulting in higher yield rate. Likewise, Magfriders can also be used in any other machines that use ball-bearing, and this includes vehicles, industrial appliances and so on.

 

Magfrider also have economic implications. Firstly, Magfriders help slow down the rate of capital depreciation in industries. While axels would previously wear due to abrasion, the use of Magfriders prevents any such wearing. With the life of machine parts increased, firms will consequently have to invest less in maintenance. Secondly, the use of Magfriders in automobiles could significantly reduce fuel-consumption. With frictional forces reduced in the shafts and axels, the total power generated per-litre-of-gas by a car engine decreases. This way, on one hand, fuel-consumption per household will lessen, and on the other hand, assuming that a moderately high oil prices are maintained to discourage over-consumption, pollution caused by auto-mobile exhausts too will decrease.

 

As yet, Magfrider is only a hypothetical concept. Although its design isn't complex, a lot of engineering has to be done for it to turn into reality. Firstly, a state-of-the-art technology has to be borrowed from super-conductor researches to be able to create powerful and efficient electromagnets. Secondly, lighter metal composites also have to be developed for light automobile-Magfriders to be created. Finally, after appropriate materials have been engineered, the design has to be re-considered for mechanical efficiency.