Topology Option of Bias Magnetic Field for Magnetostrictive Actuator

In the design of giant magnetostrictive material (GMM) actuator, the bias magnetic field is a vital part. For the use of GMM rod in the magnetostrictive actuator, there are two typical topology structures, in-line structure and coaxial structure. Although these structures have been used in the design of magnetostrictive actuator, little work has been done to compare the general features for concrete application conditions. In this paper, we use finite element analysis (FEA) as the main tool to analyze and compare these structures and come to a conclusion that, as to a diameter-limited actuator, when the length to diameter ratio of the rod is less than 5, coaxial actuator can provide more uniform magnetic field and less moving parts; when the length to diameter ratio of rod is 5, the field inhomogeneity is nearly equal, and coaxial actuator uses less moving parts and in-line actuator cost less permanent magnet (PM); when the length to diameter ratio of rod is more than 5, in-line actuator can provide more uniform magnetic field and use less PM.