Design study of an aerospace motor for more electric aircraft

This study proposes an improved power density permanent magnet synchronous motor (PMSM) for more electric aircraft (MEA) and conducts a design study on aerospace motors. To improve the power density of PMSM, a dual permanent magnet structure using high-temperature resistant high-performance permanent magnets and high-performance soft magnetic alloy material is creatively designed. Methods of lightweight structure designed in both stator and rotor meanwhile are combined as another mean to increase power density. The optimisation models for 6-slot/8-pole and 12-slot/10-pole configurations are first established based on finite element analysis. Methods of improving the power density of PMSM are then given, including minimum core back yoke thickness and lightweight structure design. The electromagnetic characteristics of the optimised machine are analysed by finite element analysis software, including back electromotive force (back-EMF), inductance, and power loss. The configuration of 12-slot/10-pole is selected as the best design scheme for MEA, based on which a prototype is manufactured and tested. The experiment results of cogging torque and line back-EMF are in good agreement with the simulation results, which shows the rationality of the designed new machine. The design proves to be effective for improving the power density of aerospace motors.