Improved design-oriented analytical modelling of flux switching PM machines

Abstract

Purpose This paper aims at the analytical formulation of the electromagnetic features of flux switching permanent magnet (PM) machines with emphasis on the PM air gap flux density and armature magnetic reaction. Design/methodology/approach The PM air gap flux density is formulated considering three different analytical models. These differ by the incorporation of the air gap magnetic saliency level from the stator side. In addition, the armature magnetic reaction is investigated based on a simplified magnetic reluctance circuit that considers the flux switching permanent magnet machines magnetic circuit geometry specification. Then, the no- and on-load torque is predicted based on the two air gap flux densities. Findings It has been found that the PM air gap flux density considering the stator saliencies with trapezoidal magnetomotive force waveform presents the highest accuracy. Despite the simplicity of the magnetic equivalent circuit-based approach, the predicted air gap armature magnetic reaction is in good agreement with the finite element analysis (FEA) one. These lead to the analytical predictions of the no- and on-load torque which is characterized by an acceptable accuracy. Research limitations/implications This work should be extended to experimental validation of the FEA results regarding the torque production generation. Originality/value The paper proposes an improved design-oriented analytical approach with emphasis on the PM air gap flux density and the armature magnetic reaction of flux switching PM machines.