Spatial Distribution of Levitation Force and Trapped Flux in Melt-Textured YBa 2 Cu 3 O 7-x

Melt textured YBCO material was prepared by a modified mtg process. Using a computer-controlled 3D-positioning system the axial levitation force was measured. The 2D-force distribution correlates roughly with the grain structure of the sample. Force versus distance measurements show hysteretic behavior as expected for a type II superconductor. Minor loops were measured to determine the magnetic stiffness. The experimental setup was also used to map the magnetic field distribution caused by trapped flux.