Novel Solution of a High Force Direct Current Electromagnetic Actuator

In this paper a novel design of an electromagnetic actuator is presented. The proposed device has a working principle similar to that of a classic electromagnet, but the advantage of the newly designed one is the high force produced in closed position without energy consumption. From this point of view, the main purpose of the present paper is the analysis of the working principle of the proposed electromagnetic actuator, as well as its advantages and novelty. Such devices can be successfully implemented in high voltage electrical switchgear, as well as other electrical equipment. The force produced by the device in closed position is the result of a special geometry of the magnetic circuit as well as the proper incorporation of high energy NdFeB magnets. Numerical modelling was performed using the FEMM package in which a LUA script was implemented to determine the force produced by the actuator. Other mechanical parameters were computed using the MATLAB program.