METHOD AND ARRANGEMENT FOR DETERMINING SEDIMENTATION IN A MAGNETORHEOLOGICAL FLUID

摘要

The invention relates to a method and a device for determining the sedimentation of suspension particles in a magnetorheological fluid. MR fluids are used widely in fluid dampers, such as shock absorbers and seismic support structures. It is important to know the sedimentation state of an MR fluid damper, as a sedimented fluid does not operate properly and can cause unexpected damage in its area of application by failure. In accordance with the invention, the method comprises exposing the MR fluid to a first magnetic field (H1) alternating at frequency f and detecting the second magnetic field (H2) being produced by eddy currents induced in the suspension particles of the MR fluid with respect to changes in time or position in order to deduce the sedimentation profile of the MR fluid.