Remanufacturing a Synchronous Reluctance Machine with Aluminum Winding: An Open Benchmark Problem for FEM Analysis

Abstract

The European Union’s increasing focus on sustainable and eco-friendly product design has resulted in significant pressure on original equipment manufacturers to adopt more environmentally conscious practices. As a result, the remanufacturing of end-of-life electric machines is expected to become a promising industrial segment. Identifying the missing parameters of these types of machines will play an essential role in creating feasible and reliable redesigns and remanufacturing processes. A few case studies related to this problem have been published in the literature; however, some novel, openly accessible benchmark problems can facilitate the research and function as a basis for comparing and validating novel numerical methods. This paper presents the identification process of an experimental synchronous machine. It outlines methodologies for identifying material properties, winding schemes, and other critical parameters for the finite element analysis and modelling of electric machines with incomplete information. The machine in question is intended for remanufacturing, with the plan to replace its faulty winding with an aluminium-based alternative. It also serves as an open benchmark problem for researchers, designers, and practitioners.