Application of a Switched Reluctance Drive for Electromotive Systems of Next-Generation Ships

Abstract

The experience of successful creation of samples of marine switched reluctance drives of small and medium power and the need for electric propulsion systems with a power from units to dozens of megawatts for next-generation ships has resulted in the implementation of design solutions for a switched reluctance motor (SRM). The SRM equivalent circuit is presented along with some assumptions simplifying the analysis of electric propulsion static modes. The adopted functional scheme is based on a variant with mutual loading of the test and load identical SRM. A variant of a nine-phase SRM of traditional magnetic design with the corresponding number of inverters and their capacity was chosen—the identity of the SRM and converters ensures the complete reversibility of the power circuit. The creation of a deliverable propulsion SRM for a sea tug and its subsequent no-load tests are considered, which show the motor’s efficiency and compliance with vibration requirements. The main dimensions and winding parameters of this motor are presented. The specified performance characteristics are obtained due to the distinctive advantages of SRM-based electric propulsion. The idea of constructing a complete electric drive with a capacity of 1000 kW is proposed, and the distinguishing characteristics of a Schorch induction drive (ID) and a 1000-kW switched reluctance drive are presented.