Until recent years, engineers have been forced to sacrifice vibration control for other factors such as overall performance, cost and efficiency. Magneto rheological-based motion damping systems have evolved to utilize Magnetic Fluids to refine the vibration and control aspects of various products. Whether tackling the infamous spin-cycle of the 'walking' washing machine, softening the jolts from road conditions in shock absorbers, or acting as the nervous system within the veins of advanced robotics, the predictability of MR fluids makes them a reliable option for designers.
Most people can identify with the infamous 'walking' washing machine. When a drain bucket approaches the peak of spinning speed, washing machines have a tendency to rock violently back and forth, occasionally causing the entire unit to move, or walk. In the past engineers attempted to solve this problem through the use of springs placed under the drain bucket, however, this only lessened the amount of noise and movement. To eliminate the motion associated with the spin cycle, designers have implemented damping cylinders filled with MR fluids. This fluid reacts predictably to a magnetic field that is applied as needed by computer-controlled sensors on the bucket. The result is a more stable and silent product that consumers can purchase confidently.
In the automotive industry, Magnetic Fluids have been employed in the design of shock absorbers for sport and luxury cars. Advanced computers are now able to make thousands of micro-adjustments to the magnetic field each second. The nano-scale metallic particles in MR fluids react to the field by stacking up to stiffen the ride, the effect is reversed as the strength of the field is lessened and the particles fall back beside each other. This scientific advancement has allowed manufacturers to design models that have better ride comfort while increasing the life of the shocks.
The discovery of MR fluids and their predictable pattern of response to specific magnetic fields has spurred NASA scientists to re-explore the idea of advanced robotics. Due to the fact that the active particles within the MR fluid are so small, engineers are considering using this technology within the artificial veins of robots. The use and manipulation of sophisticated magnetic fields is not a new science, experts are using the knowledge already attained to regulate the movement and rigidity of MR fluids inside robotics to replicate the movements of human joints. While there are no actively employed robots in use currently, the very near future may see the emergence of human-like robotics in everyday applications.
Magnetic Fluids have given designers the ability to respond to changing conditions in microseconds. As science advances in the area of magnetic field control, a parallel growth takes place within the uses of MR fluids. Many new applications are expected to arise as a result of this study and consumers can look forward to the superior design in more and more products.
Ferrofluid is a kind of liquid which is made up of very small magnetic particles. This particular fluid has magnetic properties like a solid magnet and is basically a mixture of magnetic solids, carrier fluid and a surfactant. The fluid is commonly used in art displays, commercial industries, medicine and education. By altering the level of viscosity and magnetization, the fluid can be customized for certain specific applications.
Scientists at NASA were searching for a way to move liquid fuel in the 1960s; so they created a magnetic fluid which can be controlled with the application of magnetic field. Due to this discovery, several years later, a company was founded for producing ferrofluid for commercial purpose.
Various kinds of ferrofluids with different formulas are available but magnetite, a kind of iron oxide is commonly used in making this substance. A surfactant, like oleic acid, is used for coating tiny magnetite particles to prevent them from gathering in to mass. The surfactant which is a dispersing agent creates electrostatic repulsion between the particles and keeps them separated. This implies that the particles have a positive charge around them which prevents them from contacting each other. To form the final solution, the surfactant and magnetite are suspended in some kind of carrier fluid like oil or water.
Due to its unique magnetic features, the fluid is used in classrooms and labs as a teaching instrument. It is quite easy to demonstrate the effect of magnetism by using this substance. The fluid is also used for creating a kind of liquid seal, or O-ring, to rotate drive shafts on semiconductors. The fluid is held by the magnets for creating a strong barrier which reduces friction.
Ferrofluid is widely used in manufacturing audio speakers. For more than three decades, it is used in speakers to increase the performance of the speakers. By applying force which centers the voice coil, the fluid helps in reducing distortion. Its unusual and unique properties are very useful to lubricate the device, increase resistance of heat, improve damping and enhance the overall sound quality.
This fluid has turn to be a popular way for creating awesome display of art. When the solution is placed near the magnet, interesting magnetic patterns are produced by the movement and alignment of magnetic particles. The result is a three-dimensional, spiked figure which can be used as a conversation piece.
Ferrofluid has wide applications in many areas from teaching labs to industries. The applications and uses of the fluid are increasing due to its magnetic properties and chemical composition. In the field of biotechnology and medicine, research is going on to find ways to use the fluid to help the detection of cancer and diagnose Alzheimer’s disease.
