2 ms·
Could you do something like spin ferrofluid inside a hollow donut with some coils round it to make a reaction wheel that would take ages to wear out? No bearing
by moocowduckquack 13y ago
Could you do something like spin ferrofluid inside a hollow donut with some coils round it to make a reaction wheel that would take ages to wear out? No bearings and the only friction would be the fluid against the inside of the donut.
- Udo 13y agoThat friction would be substantial, however, requiring a lot of energy just to keep going. But maybe there is potential in exploring some kind of contactless magnetic wheel suspension for space applications.
- moocowduckquack 13y agoIt would need more energy, but on the other hand it would be extremely simple and should last. I guess it depends on how much extra solar you would have to haul to balance the friction. Magnetic bearings are lovely, but seem fiddly.