Optimization of conductors arrangement in slot for alternating current winding losses reduction

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to evaluate and minimize the losses of alternating current (AC) in the winding of electrical machines. AC winding losses are frequently disregarded at low frequencies, but they become a significant concern at high frequencies. This is the situation where applications require a high speed. The most significant applications in this category are electrical propulsion and drive systems.

Design/methodology/approach

An analytical model is used to predict the AC losses in the winding of electrical machines. The process involves dividing the slot into separate layers and then calculating the AC loss factor for each layer. The model aims to calculate AC losses for two different winding arrangements involving circular conductors. This application focuses on the stator winding of a permanent magnet synchronous motor that is specifically designed for electric vehicles. The model is integrated into an optimization process that makes use of the genetic algorithm method to minimize AC losses resulting from the arrangement of conductors within the slot.

Findings

This study and its findings demonstrate that the arrangement of the conductors within the slot has a comparable effect on the AC losses in the winding as the machine's geometric and physical properties. The effectiveness of electrical machines depends heavily on optimizing the arrangement of conductors in the slot to minimize AC winding losses.

Originality/value

The proposed strategy seeks to minimize AC winding losses in high-speed electric machines by providing a cost-effective and precise solution to improve energy efficiency.

Citation

Zoubida, B. and Lyes, A. (2024), "Optimization of conductors arrangement in slot for alternating current winding losses reduction", COMPEL - The international journal for computation and mathematics in electrical and electronic engineering, Vol. 43 No. 3, pp. 721-743. https://doi.org/10.1108/COMPEL-11-2023-0582