Power-Saving Magnetization for Magnetorheological Fluid Control Using a Combination of Permanent Magnet and Electromagnet

This study proposes a mechanism for controlling the viscosity of a magnetorheological fluid (MRF) to save a significant amount of electric power consumed during the magnetization process. The mechanism takes advantage of the magnetization/demagnetization property of permanent magnet materials. It consumes no electric power while maintaining the applied external magnetic field to the MRF. The device can also continuously control the intensity of the magnetic field using very little electric power. The evaluations of the power-saving and the viscosity control performances are reported. It is confirmed that the magnetizing device is very effective in maintaining the magnetic field to the MRF, while saving a significant amount of electric power. The device is especially useful in applications where long duration magnetization necessary.