With the introduction of stricter energy-efficiency-ratio regulations, the surface-mounted permanent-magnet motor (SPM) is gaining increasing attention due to its inherent high-power density. This article investigates the feasible SPM structures for refrigerant compressor applications, particularly those used in metal industry factories with high surrounding temperatures so that cost-effective solutions can be achieved. A theoretical model is first established to aid structural parameter optimizations and the management of specific operational objectives and constraints; multiple SPM arrangements are investigates, with ease of manufacturing implementation being one consideration, as shown in Liu <italic xmlns:mml="http://www.w3.org/1998/Math/MathML" xmlns:xlink="http://www.w3.org/1999/xlink">et al.</i> , 2021. Detailed finite element calculations and experimental measurements are performed to develop feasible SPMs with optimized structural arrangements that meet the desired operational objectives.