Alignment effect between a magnet over a superconductor cylinder in the Meissner state

Although forces between magnets and superconductors have been profusely studied in many previous papers, little attention has been paid to calculations or measurements of the torque exerted. In this paper, we focus on the equilibrium orientation of a magnet when it is levitating over a superconductor and present measurements for different positions and configurations. We compare these measurements with values predicted by our proposed local model. Agreement between predicted values and experimental values demonstrates that the model is useful for calculating torques in addition to forces. The angle of equilibrium varies along the path over the superconducting cylinder. Therefore, shape and size determine the angle of equilibrium of the magnet.

Alignment effect between a magnet over a superconductor cylinder in the Meissner state Articles