Numerical Analysis of E-Machine Cooling Using Phase Change Material

Abstract

The cooling of E-machines was investigated using phase change material (PCM). The PCM is widely used in the cooling of electronic components because of its heat-absorbing and cooling properties. In this study, PCM OM35 (50:50) and OM35 (60:40) were used for the cooling of E-Machines, which are commonly known as electric vehicle motors. Three different configurations, viz. no rib, two ribs, and four ribs, were studied to understand the impact of thermal behaviour on bracket cooling. The ribs were added in between the brackets to enhance the heat transfer. Numerical simulations were performed using the volume of fluid multiphase analysis approach to model the behaviour of phase change inside the brackets for 18 KW E-Machines. Based on the study, a four rib configuration showed good performance compared to no rib and two rib configurations, and heat transfer improved by 6%. Heat transfer is thus improved by increasing the number of ribs placed between the brackets. The cyclic heat load was applied to the best performing ribs to study the impact of different PCM materials OM35 (50:50) and OM35 (60:40).