Design and Optimization of a High-Speed Switched Reluctance Motor

Stefan Kocan,Richard Lenhard,Ronald Bastovansky,Michal Stano,Pavol Rafajdus

doi:10.3390/en14206733

Abstract

Currently, one of the most used motor types for high-speed applications is the permanent-magnet synchronous motor. However, this type of machine has high costs and rare earth elements are needed for its production. For these reasons, permanent-magnet-free alternatives are being sought. An overview of high-speed electrical machines has shown that the switched reluctance motor is a possible alternative. This paper deals with design and optimization of this motor, which should achieve the same output power as the existing high-speed permanent-magnet synchronous motor while maintaining the same motor volume. The paper presents the initial design of the motor and the procedure for analyses performed using analytical and finite element methods. During the electromagnetic analysis, the influence of motor geometric parameters on parameters such as: maximum current, average torque, torque ripple, output power, and losses was analyzed. The analysis of windage losses was performed by analytical calculation. Based on the results, it was necessary to create a cylindrical rotor shape. The rotor modification method was chosen based on mechanical analysis. Using thermal analysis, the design was modified to meet thermal limits. The result of the work was a design that met all requirements and limits.

Highlights

High-speed machines are used in an increasing number of applications, such as compressors, turbochargers, spindles, flywheel energy-storage systems, turbomolecular pumps, and microturbine generators
Thethis mechanical analysis was in cooperation withand the thermal
From a thermal of view, the thermal limit was met for eachalso number of parallel

Summary

Introduction

High-speed machines are used in an increasing number of applications, such as compressors, turbochargers, spindles, flywheel energy-storage systems, turbomolecular pumps, and microturbine generators. The advantage of these machines was especially their simple speed control, but the disadvantages were low efficiency and short commutator lifetime, which were associated with high maintenance costs [3]. Because of these disadvantages, they are currently being replaced by other types of electrical machines, including:

Methods

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Discussion

Conclusion