An analysis of diamagnetic levitation away from a suspending magnet’s central axis

This paper extends previous work about diamagnetic levitation to include positions not along the central axis of a single suspending magnet. Previous work assumes a single levitating magnet located at the central axis of a permanent or electromagnet. However several applications require magnets located away from that axis, but still levitating in an axis symmetric field. This paper presents a mathematical model to allow one to calculate equilibrium positions for levitating magnets rotors using multiple levitating magnets for suspension. In order to compare with experiments, this paper contains specific equations for cylindrical levitating and suspending magnets. Additionally, the mathematical model can predict levitation positions for horizontal levitation configuration using two suspending magnets. Experimental results for equilibrium positions agree well with theoretical predictions. Using this formulation, the authors designed and successfully demonstrated a working diamagnetic suspended motor and generator system. The results have been reported in an earlier publication.