Synchronous Reluctance Machine Research Articles

Fast and accurate methodologies for the eddy current losses analysis in axially laminated rotor of synchronous reluctance machines under different loads

AbstractThe authors present two fast and accurate methodologies for the computation of eddy current losses in the axially laminated rotor of a synchronous reluctance machine. The methodologies are based on different combinations of the finite element method in time and frequency domains with 2D and 3D formulations. First, a comparative study of the 2D and 3D formulations for loss calculation is presented, considering various load angles of the machine to illustrate the problem of eddy‐current losses in this type of machines and its dependence on the load angle. The influence of the iron saturation on the loss calculation is also evaluated in these computations. A novel correction factor based on the computations at two load angles is proposed to convert the losses computed from a 2D model to match those computed from a 3D model. For the sake of generality, investigations are also conducted for various thicknesses of the lamination layers and different machine lengths, and an analytical method to describe the dependency of eddy‐current losses on the load angle of the machine is introduced. Moreover, a simplified method is proposed for modelling eddy currents in the frequency domain and calculating losses in an axially laminated structure based solely on the results of a magnetostatic solution. The results obtained by the simplified model demonstrate excellent agreement with the full 3D magneto‐dynamic simulation. Overall, the findings contribute to understanding and accurately characterising the eddy current losses in axially laminated rotors, offering potential insights for designing and optimising axially laminated synchronous reluctance electric machines.

Dynamic Characterization of SynRM With Dual-Axis Hybrid Excitation Self-Commissioning

The synchronous reluctance machine (SynRM) has gained increasing attraction for future electric drive systems. The characterization of its magnetic and current dynamics is essential for high-performance model-driven control, which still remains a promising problem. In this paper, a dynamic characterization scheme for SynRM with dual axis hybrid excitation self-comissioning is proposed to characterize the magnetic and current dynamics. Inspired by separating dual-axis current variables, a compact magnetic circuit model is investigated with reciprocity analytics. Furthermore, an improved current dynamic model is derived with resulting analytical apparent and incremental inductances. On this basis, the characterized parameters involved in the magnetic circuit and current dynamic models can be accurately identified by combining the designed dual axis hybrid excitation method with effective parameter identification algorithm. The effectiveness and practicability of the proposed scheme are verified based on the development platform for commercial SynRM drive. This simple dynamic characterization scheme fits for online implementation on standard drives. Compared with the existed work, 38.2 <inline-formula xmlns:mml="http://www.w3.org/1998/Math/MathML" xmlns:xlink="http://www.w3.org/1999/xlink"><tex-math notation="LaTeX">$\%$</tex-math></inline-formula> improvement of normalized modeling accuracy for magnetic circuit can be achieved. In the meanwhile, the normalized modeling errors of apparent inductances for current dynamics are strictly less than 6.91 <inline-formula xmlns:mml="http://www.w3.org/1998/Math/MathML" xmlns:xlink="http://www.w3.org/1999/xlink"><tex-math notation="LaTeX">$\%$</tex-math></inline-formula> .

Electromagnetic Design Optimization Integrated with Mechanical Stress Analysis of PM-Assisted Synchronous Reluctance Machine Topologies Enabled with a Blend of Magnets

Permanent Magnet-Assisted Synchronous Reluctance Machines (PMASynRM) provide a low-cost alternative to Surface PM Machines due to the use of relatively lower grades of rare-earth (RE) or RE-free magnets, as the performance degradation due to weaker magnets is compensated by the presence of reluctance torque. However, the weaker magnets suffer from a high risk of demagnetization, leading to unreliable motor operation. Using a blend of RE and RE-free magnets has the potential to overcome this issue. This paper proposes to blend different grades of various rare-earth (RE) and rare-earth-free (RE-free) magnets in six different combinations and utilizes them in two-layer and three-layer U-shaped PMASynRM topologies with both eight-pole and six-pole variations. The rotor of the various designs is then optimized using a differential evolution (DE) based optimization algorithm to obtain low-cost designs with reduced RE magnet volume and minimum demagnetization risk. The optimization of each design is also integrated with the evaluation of mechanical stresses in the rotor laminations so as to maintain the stresses below the material yield strength. Furthermore, the various performance metrics, such as toque–speed/power–speed characteristics, demagnetization, and efficiency maps, are evaluated for each of the optimized and mechanically feasible designs. A quantitative comparison of the various optimized designs is also obtained to highlight the various trade-offs. The results indicate the feasibility of meeting the baseline torque requirement across the entire speed range, even with a 100% reduction in RE magnet volume and less than 5% demagnetization risk, while achieving a cost reduction exceeding 50%. Moreover, the two-layer, eight-pole designs exhibit relatively higher performance, whereas the three-layer, eight-pole designs are found to be the most economical option.

Multi-physics and multi-objective optimization of a permanent magnet-assisted synchronous reluctance machine for traction applications

This contribution addresses the rotor design process of a Permanent Magnet-assisted Synchronous Reluctance Machine by adopting a multi-physics and multi-objective optimization algorithm. A Finite Element (FE) approach is employed to determine the electromagnetic and structural responses during the optimization. In particular, a detailed FE structural modeling is used, which often is based on simplifications and inaccuracies in the available literature. A genetic algorithm is adopted, with the objectives being the maximization of the mean torque, the minimization of the torque ripple and the minimization of the stress in the rotor. A parametric analysis of the geometric features precedes the optimization to establish the design variables which mostly affect the machine performance, and thus to reduce the computational cost of the optimization. The presented methodology consists of a useful tool for the final stages of the design process, and provides a rotor with a torque ripple reduced by 15.1% compared to an existing design used as a benchmark, while the mean torque and the maximum stress remain the same as the original configuration.

Circular Economy Aspects of Permanent Magnet Synchronous Reluctance Machine Design for Electric Vehicle Applications: A Review

Innovative technological solutions have become increasingly critical in addressing the transportation sector’s environmental impact. Passenger vehicles present an opportunity to introduce novel drivetrain solutions that can quickly penetrate the electric vehicle market due to their shorter development time and lifetime compared to commercial vehicles. As environmental policy pressure increases and customers demand more sustainable products, shifting from a linear business approach to a circular economy model is in prospect. The new generation of economically competitive machines must be designed with a restorative intention, considering future reuse, refurbishment, remanufacture, and recycling possibilities. This review investigates the market penetration possibilities of permanent magnet-assisted synchronous reluctance machines for mini and small-segment electric vehicles, considering the urban environment and sustainability aspects of the circular economy model. When making changes to the materials used in an electric machine, it is crucial to evaluate their potential impact on efficiency while keeping the environmental impact of those materials in mind. The indirect ecological effect of the vehicle’s use phase may outweigh the reduction in manufacturing and recycling at its end-of-life. Therefore, thoroughly analysing the materials used in the design process is necessary to ensure maximum efficiency while minimising the environmental impact.

Design Optimization of a Synchronous Reluctance Machine by Using the Combined Topology-Normalized Shape Method

Design Optimization of a Synchronous Reluctance Machine by Using the Combined Topology-Normalized Shape Method

A Level-Set-Based Topology Optimization for Maximizing the Torque of Synchronous Reluctance Machines

A Level-Set-Based Topology Optimization for Maximizing the Torque of Synchronous Reluctance Machines

Simplified Current-Equivalent Circuit Models of Synchronous Reluctance Machines and Salient Pole Synchronous Machines Considering the Reluctance Torque

This paper describes a simplified one-phase equivalent circuit model of three-phase salient pole synchronous machines and synchronous reluctance machines. The model represents the pole saliency as a susceptance, with a magnitude based on the pole saliency and a phase angle based on twice the load angle. The reluctance torque itself is then modeled equivalent to a conductance. The model is made as an extension to Norton equivalents, where the internal inductance is connected as a shunt. This approach shares similarities to the magnetization shunt branch in circuit models of transformers and induction motors. The model is derived using the rotating dq-frame, using Park transform and two-reaction theory. The model is then rewritten to better fit one-phase equivalent circuit models, with the terminal voltage as the angular reference. The resulting two-pole model can then more easily be combined with basic circuit theory, thereby synthesizing dq-theory and phasor circuit models.

Improving dynamic response and stability of three-phase synchronous reluctance machines with a novel higher-order field-oriented sliding mode control

Improving dynamic response and stability of three-phase synchronous reluctance machines with a novel higher-order field-oriented sliding mode control

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

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.

Automated Maximum Torque per Ampere Identification for Synchronous Reluctance Machines with Limited Flux Linkage Information

Automated Maximum Torque per Ampere Identification for Synchronous Reluctance Machines with Limited Flux Linkage Information

Comprehensive Modulation Strategies for Synchronous Reluctance Motor Drives Used in Weak Grids

Synchronous reluctance machines are considered a cost-effective solution for several industrial applications and present potential efficiency benefits compared to induction motors. In industrial applications, power supply oscillations can lead to short-term disturbances that can affect the drive operation; therefore, the control must be robust to guarantee high efficiency and service continuity. The focus of this study was to identify the speed boundaries considering different values of applied DC-link voltage, taking into account the highly nonlinear magnetic behavior of the machine and its cross-coupling characteristics. In addition, a comprehensive carrier-based implementation of a pulse width modulation strategy was proposed to achieve optimal efficiency in both the machine and converter, which is essential in the presence of “weak” grids. The proposed technique was demonstrated to meet the desired reference torque and rated speed, even during DC-link voltage drops (up to 7.4% of the rated voltage). The proposed methodology was experimentally validated on a 90 kW SynRM drive with a broader modulation range and higher efficiency. This work considered several different supply voltage levels to assess the stability and continuity of torque output and further proved the proposed method.

Synchronous reluctance machine drive control with fast prototyping card implementation

Synchronous reluctance machine drive control with fast prototyping card implementation

Comparative Analysis of Reliability, Cost and Performance of Three and Five-Phase Synchronous Reluctance Machine Drive Systems with and without Permanent Magnets

Comparative Analysis of Reliability, Cost and Performance of Three and Five-Phase Synchronous Reluctance Machine Drive Systems with and without Permanent Magnets

Fixed Switching Frequency Direct Model Predictive Control of Synchronous Reluctance Machines Based on Stator Flux Gradients

Fixed Switching Frequency Direct Model Predictive Control of Synchronous Reluctance Machines Based on Stator Flux Gradients

Performance Evaluation of Permanent Magnet Assisted Synchronous Reluctance Machines under Faults for Redundant Applications

Performance Evaluation of Permanent Magnet Assisted Synchronous Reluctance Machines under Faults for Redundant Applications

Effect of cross-saturation on the performance of synchronous reluctance machine operating as autonomous generator

Effect of cross-saturation on the performance of synchronous reluctance machine operating as autonomous generator

Design and Optimization of a Bridgeless Rotor for Synchronous Reluctance Machines

Design and Optimization of a Bridgeless Rotor for Synchronous Reluctance Machines

Improved performance and robustness of synchronous reluctance machine control using an advanced sliding mode and direct vector control

AbstractThis article focuses on improving the control approach for a synchronous reluctance motor (SynRM) drive powered by a two‐level pulse width modulation (PWM) inverter. While classical sliding mode control (SMC) has been extensively used in control system design, it comes with various drawbacks such as pronounced chattering effects, considerable transient state errors, and reduced robustness. These limitations hinder its practical applicability. To enhance the performance of the SynRM, this paper introduces a novel strategy that combines direct vector control (DVC) with advanced sliding mode control (ASMC), here referring to third‐order sliding mode command (TOSMC), for regulating speed and dq‐axis stator currents. The primary objective of this approach is to achieve precise and efficient control while minimizing total harmonic distortion (THD) in current and reducing output torque fluctuations. Notably, this strategy capitalizes on the strengths of TOSMC and DVC. The efficacy of the proposed control scheme is verified through two sets of thorough simulations realized in MATLAB/Simulink environment. The first set of simulations encompasses the load–torque test, where the motor is subjected to two different levels of load torque. The results from these tests showcase the control scheme's performance under varying load conditions. The second set of simulations involves the speed variation test, where intentional changes are applied to the motor's speed. This test assesses the control approach's ability to handle dynamic speed changes effectively. The proposed control strategy is further compared with conventional control methods, including proportional–integral and second‐order sliding mode command (SOSMC) controls. The results consistently demonstrate the superior performance of the novel approach in terms of accurate control, robustness, and overall stability. The combination of DVC and TOSMC offers a promising avenue for achieving enhanced motor control in the presence of load disturbances and speed variations.

High-Fidelity Model Identification for Synchronous Reluctance Motor Drives

This paper presents an accurate model identification method for the synchronous reluctance machine (SynRel), considering the nonlinear magnetic behavior and spatial harmonics. The availability of the high-fidelity magnetic model is essential for high-performance control and modeling the vibro-acoustic behavior of the electric drive, allowing to predict not only the average torque but also the torque ripple behavior versus rotor position. The magnetic coenergy variation is calculated based on the flux linkages in order to yield the torque ripple. During the identification, the current disturbances introduced by the spatial effects and the inverter nonlinearities are properly suppressed by the merged proportional-integral (PI) controller with a repetitive technique. Besides, the inverter nonlinearity and digital control effects are carefully addressed to improve identification accuracy. The effectiveness of the proposed identification method is demonstrated by the comparison of the finite element (FE) simulation results and experiments for two SynRel prototypes.