Modifications to PM-assisted Synchronous Reluctance Machine to Achieve Rare-Earth Free Heavy-duty Traction

Al-ani, M.; Walker, A.; Vakil, G.; Gerada, D.; Gerada, C.; Paciura, K.

Abstract

Automotive applications require electrical machines designed for high torque density, wide speed range, and low cost. NdFeB magnets can achieve a high torque density and wide speed range, and however, they have a high cost. Therefore, this article explores the capability of rare-earth-free (REF) design through a PM-assisted synchronous reluctance (PM-SynRel) motor. A PM-SynRel design with NdFeB has been used in this study where the NdFeB magnets have been replaced with ferrite magnets. Then, several modifications on the rotor have been made to ensure mechanical safety. Thermal analysis has been conducted last to evaluate the temperatures in the different machine parts to avoid exceeding the required limits. Finally, a prototype has been made and tested to validate the simulation results.

Citation

Al-ani, M., Walker, A., Vakil, G., Gerada, D., Gerada, C., & Paciura, K. (2023). Modifications to PM-assisted Synchronous Reluctance Machine to Achieve Rare-Earth Free Heavy-duty Traction. IEEE Journal of Emerging and Selected Topics in Power Electronics, 11(2), 2029 -2038. https://doi.org/10.1109/jestpe.2022.3203184

• Journal Article Type: Article
• Acceptance Date: Aug 30, 2022
• Online Publication Date: Aug 31, 2022
• Publication Date: 2023-04
• Deposit Date: May 14, 2024
• Publicly Available Date: May 15, 2024
• Journal: IEEE Journal of Emerging and Selected Topics in Power Electronics
• Print ISSN: 2168-6777
• Electronic ISSN: 2168-6785
• Publisher: Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers
• Peer Reviewed: Peer Reviewed
• Volume: 11
• Issue: 2
• Pages: 2029 -2038
• DOI: https://doi.org/10.1109/jestpe.2022.3203184
• Public URL: https://nottingham-repository.worktribe.com/output/10638296
• Publisher URL: https://ieeexplore.ieee.org/document/9870813