摘要 |
A method of controlling bearing load comprises sensing the approach of a no-load condition in a bearing, generating a signal in response thereto and applying a load to the bearing in a direction opposite to the direction of loading before the approach of said no-load condition whereby to take the bearing through the no-load condition in a rapid and controlled manner to a condition in which it is loaded in the opposite direction. Preferably the load is applied to the bearing by an electrostatic actuator in the form of a separate electromagnetic bearing surrounding the shaft. |