Spectra-physics Gmbh

Joseph G Patten

Edward E Hart

A low friction bearing arrangement includes first and second poles of magnetically permeable material which define first and second pole surfaces which are spaced apart. The first and second poles also define first and second side surfaces, respectively, which are aligned. A quantity of ferrofluid, positioned intermediate the first and second pole surfaces and adjacent the first and second side surfaces, is held by means of a fringing magnetic flux between the first and second side surfaces at a level which extends beyond the side surfaces. A rotatable shaft of nonmagnetic material is supported on the quantity of ferrofluid and is held out of contact with the side surfaces thereby, such that the shaft may be freely rotated.

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Troy, OH, United States of America

Joseph G Patten