Design, modeling and simulation of a novel variable reluctance type linear ferrofluid pump

In this paper, a novel design of variable reluctance type linear ferrofluid pump is proposed. The design is based on the concept of axial pressure gradient of ferrofluid in an external magnetic field. The pump is actuated by two phases of switched DC magnetic field. The conceptual design development of the pump is discussed in detail. The proposed design is modeled and simulated in terms of its equivalent electrical circuit. The equivalent electrical parameters are based on hydraulic-electric analogy. Simulation results of flow rate for different actuation frequency, sequencing methods and discharge head are discussed and analyzed.