Magnetic bearing creates a completely wear-free environment (no contact), thanks to the technology implemented by S2M. Bearing lifetime is dependent primarily on the bearing control electronics, which have achieved excellent results in the field. Magnetic bearing levitates the shaft within an airgrap requiring no added lubrication. The potential of polluting the process gas is thus totally eliminated.
S2M magnetic bearings are now the standard for cryogenic, ethylene production turboexpanders. The primary advantage is the total elimination of lubricant in the machine. Oil leaking from the lube system would instantly freeze, clogging the cold box and stopping the process. S2M magnetic bearings are also proven in high vacuum applications. Over 60,000 turbomolecular vacuum pumps, used in the demanding semiconductor industry, have been equipped with S2M technology.
S2M No 1 benefit concerning magnetic bearing is the increased availability. Natural gas pipeline compressors have been in operation over 15 years operating on the original magnetic bearing. S2M turbomolecular pump spindles (motor and magnetic bearing) achieve MTBF values of greater than 200,000 hours. Thus, S2M benefits from unparalleled on-site experience!
