Comparative Analysis of Magnetic Slot Wedges Design for Increasing Performance of Railway Traction Motor

Abstract

This study focuses on the effects of using open stator slots in an interior permanent magnet traction motor with a magnetic slot wedge design in order to increase the power density at its base speed. In addition, such a configuration reduces the torque ripple under field-weakening conditions. Five different wedge models were selected, each of which was evaluated using a finite element analysis (FEA). Based on the initial model, we designed magnetic slot wedges for maximum back-EMF and minimum cogging torque. In addition, the d-q axis inductance was slightly altered due to the magnetic slot wedges. Finally, we analyzed the performance of a traction machine under field weakening control. Moreover, we have outlined the requirements for an ideal magnetic slot wedge design.