Review and Future Application of Finite Element Methods in Induction Motors

Abstract

Finite element method (FEM) has become a very popular and practical tool for computing the magnetic fields in electrical machinery. Such numerical techniques enable the designer to study the problems that are difficult to be solved by analytical methods. This paper attempts to summarise the application of FEM in analysing the performance of induction motors. Different FEM involving a 20 magnetostatic model, a 20 complex eddy current model, a 20 rotating model, a 20 FEM coupled with circuit equations model and a 3D model are discussed. The merits and limitations of the various models are outlined. Further developments are also discussed by the authors.

Design and Transient Analysis of Cage Induction Motor Using Finite Element Methods

“…Recently the induction motor has received scant attention, despite its pre-eminence in industrial drives. It is not feasible to construct a three-dimensional field model for an induction motor, so that two-dimensional field models must be used [2]. Chief amongst these is the effect of the rotor end-rings and the stator end-windings.…”

Modeling and Diagnosing Eccentricity Fault Using Three-dimensional Magnetic Equivalent Circuit Model of Three-phase Squirrel-cage Induction Motor

“…The FEM is a numerical method for modeling the machine based on the geometry of the machine and windings distribution. This method is capable to consider precisely and completely the non-linearity effects based on the geometry and material characteristics of the machine [6][7][8]. The FEM is very flexible, particularly for new designs with novel topologies.…”

FEM Study of the Effects of Geometric Changes on the Variable Reluctance Shaded-Pole Motors Performance

“…It is possible to construct the desired design and behavior model of the machine using approximation methods such as finite difference and finite element methods used in the analysis of electric machines [10], [11]. The 2D model of the machine model is created by using electromagnetic analysis, and the analysis of the finite elements is performed.…”