Implementation of Different 2D Finite Element Modeling Approaches in Axial Flux Induction Motors

Abstract

Axial flux induction motors (AFIM) are gaining popularity due to their higher torque density than radial flux motors. However, axial flux motors have a more complex structure than radial flux motors due to their diameters expanding from the inside out. Before manufacturing, designers have two contradictory goals in the simulation phase. These are high accuracy and short analyses time. The finite element method is a commonly utilized technique for verifying designs. However, in the early stages of AFIM design, a 2D radial flux modeling approach can yield faster results. This approach is well-suited for radial motors, where 2D analysis is widely employed to achieve accurate designs within reasonable analysis times. However, for AFIM with a non-axisymmetric flux path, the application of 2D analysis poses some difficulties. This study compares three modeling approaches, linear, inner rotor and outer rotor modeling approaches to a 3D model and examines their steady-state performance. The results show compatibility in performance data, with some deviations in the torque-speed curve for inner rotor modeling and outer rotor modeling approach methods, which can be reduced by resizing the slots. Overall, acceptable errors and consistent results were achieved between the models.

Keywords:

• Axial flux
• induction motor
• finite element modeling
• 2D modeling
• linear
• inner rotor
• outer rotor

Disclosure Statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Mustafa Özsoy

Mustafa Özsoy received his M.S. degree from Tokat Gaziosmanpasa University, Tokat, Turkey, in 2018. He is working toward his Ph.D. at Gazi University, Ankara, Turkey. He is also working as a Research Assistant at Tokat Gaziosmanpasa University. His current research interests include electric machines and electric vehicles.

Orhan Kaplan

Orhan Kaplan was born in Turkey. He graduated from the Department of Electrical Education of Gazi University in 2001. He received his M.Sc. and Ph.D. degrees from the Institute of Science & Technology, Gazi University in 2005 and in 2011 respectively. Dr. Orhan KAPLAN worked as a Research Assistant, Assistance Professor in Electrical Education Department at Gazi University. He became an Assoc. Prof. at Electrical & Electronics Engineering Dep. at Gazi University. Currently, he is working as an Assoc. Prof. at the same department. His main expertise field include power quality, electrical machines, renewable energy sources, microgrids, and smart grid applications. He served as reviewer to many high ranked scientific journals. He has published journal and conference papers on active power filters, reactive power compensation, sliding mode control, renewable energy sources, electrical machines, smart grid applications and industrial automation.

Mehmet Akar

Mehmet Akar received the B.S. and Mc. S. degree in electrical education from Marmara University, Technical Education Faculty, Istanbul Turkey, and he received the Ph.D. degree in electronic and computer education from the University of Sakarya. He is currently working as a Professor at Tokat Gaziosmanpaşa University, Department of Electrical and Electronics Engineering. His research interests include electrical machines design, control, and fault diagnosis.