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20.2.2025
Blood pumps are available in various configurations, which differ, among other things, in the bearing of the rotor. Examples include an active magnetic bearing, a bearing via a shaft or the so-called spherical swivel bearing. The bearing is not only relevant for stable running, but also for wear and blood damage. We explain the importance of axial force in the bearing of a blood pump using the example of a ball swivel bearing.
In modern pumps, magnets are almost always used to support and drive the rotors in blood pumps. The rotors are drawn into the physical bearing by the magnetic forces. During operation, hydraulic effects result in a pressure profile on the top and bottom of the rotor. This ensures that the rotor is pushed upwards - against the magnetic force. The hydraulic force is strongly dependent on the operating point of the pump, i.e. which flow passes through it and what pressure is created as a result. This means that a characterisation of the total force is not only useful for the static case (rotor does not rotate), but also during operation in order to be able to analyse the wear of the bearings and design the bearing ideally.
We have developed a method to determine the axial forces within the pump. This makes it possible to determine whether a rotor is in a stable operating point or whether or when unstable running can be expected due to jumping out of the bearing.
Are you looking for ways to analyse and further develop your products in this respect? Talk to us, we will find your solution.
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