The MARPOWER project presented three research contributions at the 12th IFToMM International Conference on Rotordynamics, held from 22 to 26 June 2026 in Lahti, Finland. Hosted by project coordinator LUT University, the conference welcomed around 240 registered participants, including researchers, engineers and industry professionals, for an international exchange on rotating machinery, rotor-bearing systems, vibration control, condition monitoring, digital twins, energy conversion and other areas of rotordynamics.
MARPOWER researchers from project partners LUT University and the Technical University of Denmark (DTU) presented three studies resulting from the project’s research. The contributions addressed different aspects of active magnetic bearings (AMBs) and high-speed rotating systems, technologies that form part of MARPOWER’s work on the development of its energy conversion system for maritime applications.
Exploring magnetic bearings through multiphysics modelling
Bruno Rende, Postdoctoral Researcher at DTU, presented Predicting Thermal Effects in Magnetic Bearings via Multiphysical Models – Theory & Experiment. The research examines the effects of temperature on rotors supported by active and passive magnetic bearings, combining rotordynamics, electromagnetism, control and heat transfer within a multiphysics modelling approach.
The work investigates factors including changes in permanent magnet performance, active magnetic bearing coil resistance, bearing load capacity and rotor vibration stability as temperatures increase. The modelling approach was validated using dedicated experimental test rigs, providing further understanding of how thermal conditions can affect magnetic bearing systems operating in demanding environments.
This research is closely connected to MARPOWER’s work on the modelling and validation of its active magnetic bearing technology, which includes investigating thermal effects and changes in AMB parameters under different operating conditions. Rende’s presentation was well received and prompted several questions, providing an opportunity to discuss the research with specialists attending the session.
Comparing modelling approaches for AMB-supported rotating systems
Giota Goswami, Postdoctoral Researcher at LUT University, presented Critical Speed and Mode Shape Sensitivity to Finite Element Modeling Strategies in Active Magnetic Bearing Rotor Systems. The study compares beam-element and three-dimensional solid finite-element models for analysing an active magnetic bearing-supported gas turbine generator, with particular attention to the prediction of critical speeds and mode shapes.
While beam models can offer greater computational efficiency, the research examines situations in which more detailed three-dimensional modelling can better represent complex shaft structures and other effects influencing rotor dynamics. The results highlight differences in predicted natural frequencies and nodal locations between the modelling approaches.
The work contributes to the modelling of the high-speed rotating systems and AMB-supported shafts being investigated within MARPOWER. The presentation prompted discussion about modelling techniques in rotordynamics, ways of reducing computation time while maintaining the required level of accuracy, bearing stiffness, and observability and controllability in active magnetic bearing systems.
Goswami highlighted one of the main topics addressed during the discussion: “There was discussion about the AMB observability and controllability issue as well, which was the main motivation behind the work presented in the paper”. According to Goswami, the questions and subsequent discussion showed significant interest and curiosity among participants about the research.
Assessing active magnetic bearing configurations for modular gas turbines
Pauli Pöppönen, Project Researcher at LUT University, presented Rotor Dynamic Analysis of a Modular Gas Turbine: Two vs. Three Radial Active Magnetic Bearing Configurations. The study investigates the dynamic behaviour of a modular gas turbine configuration using three radial active magnetic bearings and compares it with a conventional two-bearing arrangement.
Different shaft configurations were analysed with a focus on critical speeds and vibration response under unbalance excitation. The research provides insights into the advantages and trade-offs associated with alternative configurations, supporting design decisions for high-speed, megawatt-scale turbomachinery.
The study is directly related to MARPOWER’s development of an AMB-supported modular driveline, including the investigation of a three-bearing configuration for its high-speed shaft. Questions following the presentation focused on the bearing configurations represented in the study, the relative advantages of the three arrangements analysed and the positioning of sensors around the active magnetic bearings.
According to Pöppönen, the most appropriate configuration depends on the specific system and its constraints, as each alternative presents different advantages and limitations. He described presenting the research as a valuable learning experience.
MARPOWER members contribute to the conference organisation
MARPOWER’s presence at IFToMM Rotordynamics 2026 extended beyond the three research presentations. Several members of the project team contributed to the organisation of the conference as part of wider committees involving experts from different institutions.
MARPOWER Project Coordinator Professor Jussi Sopanen from LUT University served as Chair of the Organising Committee, alongside fellow project members Associate Professor Niko Nevaranta, Dr Tuhin Choudhury and Pauli Pöppönen, M.Sc., all from LUT University. Professor Sopanen and Professor Ilmar Ferreira Santos from project partner DTU also participated in the Scientific Committee.
In addition to presenting MARPOWER research, Pöppönen was closely involved in the practical organisation of the conference. He described the experience as an opportunity to learn about conference management, financial matters and participant services, adding another dimension to his participation in the event.
According to Sopanen, the conference went very well overall, with positive feedback from participants and questions following the presentations. This interaction between speakers and participants is central to conferences such as IFToMM Rotordynamics, creating opportunities to exchange ideas, discuss different technical approaches and contribute to the further development of research in the field.
Connecting MARPOWER research with the wider scientific community
The three contributions reflect complementary strands of MARPOWER’s work on active magnetic bearings, high-speed rotating systems and component modelling and validation. IFToMM Rotordynamics 2026 provided an opportunity to share these advances with the wider scientific community, receive technical feedback and exchange knowledge with researchers and engineers working on related challenges in rotating machinery and energy conversion.
IFToMM, the International Federation for the Promotion of Mechanism and Machine Science, comprises 45 member organisations worldwide and promotes international collaboration in mechanism and machine science through conferences, technical committees and other scientific activities.
Coordinated by LUT University, the MARPOWER consortium also includes Politecnico di Milano, the German Aerospace Center (DLR), the Technical University of Denmark (DTU), the University of Vigo, Aurelia Technologies, Alfa Laval, RINA Consulting, RINA Services, Chantiers de l’Atlantique, and Zabala Innovation. Together, the partners integrate expertise from research, industry and the maritime sector to advance innovative energy solutions for more sustainable shipping.