513: Automated Shaft Flux Measurements

Danfoss Turbocor makes compressors for use in various applications. These compressors spin blades using a special magnetized shaft to cut down on friction. Assessing the quality of the magnetized part is tricky and needs too much manual work. Therefore, Danfoss asked us to create a device that can automatically read the magnetic flux, which is a measure of the total magnetic force that passes through the shaft. 

The device nickname is the AFR (Automated Flux Reader), and it is designed to measure the magnetic flux of the shafts automatically and precisely. For Danfoss this project frees up workers, lowers production errors in the shafts, and saves money.

The AFR is an electronic device with two main duties. These are to use a fluxmeter sensor to measure and record the flux of the shaft’s magnetic region. The AFR secures the shaft in a horizontal position while spinning it using a motor. Then, the flux sensor travels the extent of the shaft using a linear rail and a second motor. The spacing between flux measurements is, at most, five millimeters apart. A programmed controller manages the electronics’ tasks to get flux measurements over the shaft’s magnetic region.

The AFR helps Danfoss test shaft quality in a much easier way than previously done. It also gives more reliable data than before by removing human error, making measurements more precise and consistent. Additionally, AFR is easier for users because they only need to set the needed measurements for testing at the beginning and load the shaft. Then the AFR will automatically plot the data onto graphs on a computer. The Automated Flux Reader will continue to help Danfoss with improving their shaft designs for years to come.