Development of a novel electromagnetic pump for biomedical applications

This work introduces a novel electromagnetic pumping concept that depends on rotating two hard magnets placed in an annular channel in opposing polarity through simultaneous energization of a set of solenoids. The magnetic field in each winding is energized to move one magnet (pumping) while the other is attracted between the inlet and the outlet ports (valving). At the end of each pumping cycle, magnets change their function between pumping and valving. The pump concept was tested on a meso-scale model for pumping water. Tests showed that a magnet rotational speed of 200 rpm is achieved. A flow rate of 13.7 ml/min at 200 rpm and a pressure of 785 Pa at 136 rpm are obtained. (C) 2010 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.