Finite-element analysis of turbine generator using homogenization method taking account of magnetic anisotropy

Abstract

PurposeThis paper aims to propose a homogenization method considering magnetic anisotropy for a magnetic field analysis of a turbine generator. To verify the validity of the proposed method, the effects of magnetic anisotropy and a space factor on a no-load saturation curve and no-load iron loss of the turbine generator are discussed.Design/methodology/approachThe proposed method was derived from the combination of the homogenization of microscopic fields in a laminated iron core with the modelling of two-dimensional magnetic properties based on free energy. To verify the validity, the proposed method was applied to a finite-element analysis of a simple ring core model. Finally, a no-load saturation curve and iron loss of the turbine generator was investigated by using the proposed method.FindingsThe computational accuracy of the homogenization method considering magnetic anisotropy is almost the same as that of the detailed modelling of the laminated structure in the magnetic field analysis of the laminated iron core. Furthermore, it is clarified that magnetic anisotropy does not have a large influence on the no-load saturation curve of the turbine generator because of the large air gap. On the other hand, the space factor affects the shape of the no-load saturation curve.Originality/valueThis paper verifies the validity of the homogenization method considering magnetic anisotropy method and elucidates the effects of magnetic anisotropy and a space factor on no-load characteristics of the turbine generator.