Term Assignment – I

Special Electrical Machine

{2EEDE54}

Performance of Switched Reluctance Motor

SUBMITTED BY:
Kaushal Kushwaha [21BEE045]

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 Performance of Switched Reluctance Motor

Abstract
Switched reluctance machines (SRM) are a robust, fault-tolerant alternative to
conventional and permanent magnet-based machines. They offer higher
efficiency, high torque to inertia ratio, and thermal toughness. However, they
have not gained prominence in practical applications due to disadvantages like
large torque ripple and acoustic noise. This paper explains the design
procedure of SRM, including modifications and validations using finite element
methods. A prototype for automobile applications has been developed, and
experimental methods verify motor winding inductance and static flux linkage
characteristics. The paper also discusses the implementation of a switched
reluctance motor and drive system for a two-seat electric motorcycle,
achieving a maximum efficiency of 82%.

Introduction
Switched reluctance motors (SRMs) have gained significant attention in the
field of electrical engineering due to their unique design and promising
performance characteristics. These motors operate on the principle of
magnetic reluctance, utilizing the concept of attracting the rotor towards the
stator poles when energized. The design of a switched reluctance motor, with
its simple construction and absence of permanent magnets or windings on the
rotor, plays a crucial role in enhancing performance by reducing losses and
improving efficiency. Understanding the key factors that affect the
performance of SRMs, such as rotor and stator pole shapes, phase excitation
patterns, and control strategies, is essential for optimizing their operation in
various applications. This research paper aims to delve into the intricacies of
switched reluctance motor performance by exploring the design aspects and
factors influencing their efficiency and effectiveness. By investigating these
aspects, this study seeks to contribute to the advancement of SRM technology
and its practical applications in the field of electric drives and industrial
systems.

 What is a switched reluctance motor?

Switched Reluctance Motors (SRMs) have gained significant attention in the
past four decades, being studied both theoretically and experimentally, with a
notable rise in worldwide patents related to SRMs over the years [1]. These
motors are considered an alternative choice for variable speed drives in
various automotive and industrial applications due to their higher efficiency,
high torque to inertia ratio, and thermal durability [2]. Despite their
advantages, SRMs do come with certain drawbacks, such as large torque
ripple, acoustic noise, and the necessity for meticulous design considerations
[2]. One of the key features of SRMs is their simple and robust construction,
making them reliable and durable machines with low maintenance costs [2][3].
Moreover, the design and validation processes for SRMs are crucial for
accurately calculating performance metrics like motor winding inductance and
static flux linkage characteristics, often requiring finite element methods for
validation [2]. The simple structure and fault-tolerant nature of SRMs have
made them increasingly popular in various applications, including home
appliances, electric traction, and industrial uses, where their exceptional
torque-speed characteristics and adaptability to high-temperature
environments are highly valued [3]. While SRMs may not match the efficiency
and power density of permanent magnet machines, their unique features and
versatility position them as a promising substitute for conventional AC and DC
motor drives [1].
 Fig. SRM geometric features

 How does the design of a switched reluctance motor contribute to

its performance?

Fig. Magnetic flux distribution of the Hybrid Excitation SRM (a) Unaligned position (b) Aligned
position.

The design of a switched reluctance motor (SRM) plays a pivotal role in

determining its performance characteristics. One crucial aspect is the selection
of a frame size, which impacts the outer diameter of the stator and stack
length to maintain a similar volume [4]. This initial step, guided by existing
standards like IEC recommendations, sets the foundation for further design
considerations. Additionally, key parameters such as the stator's fixed outer
diameter and stack length are essential in the initial design phase of an SRM,
ensuring the motor meets specific requirements. Moreover, the design process
involves optimizing various variables such as the turn-on angle and turn-off
angle to achieve maximum efficiency and torque at different speeds.
Furthermore, the power converter's architecture and control methods
significantly influence the overall performance of the SRM. While the design of
an SRM is crucial for its optimal functioning, it is essential to address potential
challenges such as torque pulsations and acoustic noise resulting from the
motor's high nonlinear operation features. Understanding the
electromechanical conversion process of an SRM is fundamental to its design,
emphasizing the intricate relationship between design choices and the motor's
performance.
In conventional SRM design, stator and rotor poles features are usually
attached to the following conditions:

where Ns and Nr are, respectively, the stator and rotor poles (even numbers);
βs and βr are, respectively, the stator and rotor pole arcs; ε is the stroke angle,
i.e., the rotor displacement due to a single pulse current; and m is the SRM
phase number. The denominator in Eq. (3) gives the total phase
pulses/revolution, while Eq. (4) assures the motor can start, independently of
the rotor's initial position.

M Ns Nr

3 6 4

3 12 8

4 8 6

5 10 8

6 12 10

7 14 12

Table 1. SRM phase and poles configurations

For an m-phase SRM, there are several (Ns; Nr) combinations, according to
Eqs. (1) and (5). Table 1 shows the most common configurations. Usually, the
average torque is higher for large Ns and Nr, with a smaller ripple. However,
the number of power devices (switches and diodes) in the converter will
increase. Therefore, the cost is higher, as well as the switching losses.
Conduction time is also higher, which increases copper losses. In addition,
since phase current frequency (fs) is given by fs = ωr*Nr (ωr : rotor angular
speed), core losses will be higher. Nevertheless, torque ripple filtering
becomes easier, due to its higher frequency [1]

The fundamental concepts in correlating SRM rotor position to its control are
depicted in Figure 5. Phase current (I(θ)) is represented for both motor and
generator SRM modes, as well the torque production zones (T(θ)). Except for
the red Lsðθ) curves which denote saturation effect, all the others assume
ideal conditions (no saturation and hysteresis; ohmic winding resistance is
zero). It can be seen that Ls is a periodic function of θ, with period τr . 2 The
following expressions can be considered:
Fig. Ls profile, current pulses (motor and generator), and torque zones.
 Key factors affecting the performance of a switched reluctance
motor
Factors influencing the performance of a switched reluctance motor (SRM)
encompass a variety of key elements that engineers must consider. For
instance, the conduction time increases notably when the number of stator
(Ns) and rotor (Nr) poles is larger, resulting in heightened copper losses within
the motor system [1]. Furthermore, larger values of Ns and Nr are associated
with higher average torque generation, albeit with reduced torque ripple,
which is crucial for smooth motor operation [1]. Additionally, the ease of
torque ripple filtering is enhanced as the operating frequency of the motor
increases [1]. Core losses within the SRM are influenced by the relationship
between the frequency of phase current and the angular speed of the rotor,
potentially leading to increased losses in the core material [1]. Moreover, as
the number of power devices in the converter rises, including switches and
diodes, costs escalate alongside switching losses, necessitating a balance
between performance and economic considerations [1]. On the mechanical
side, the continuously variable transmission (CVT) plays a pivotal role in
determining the torque and speed characteristics required by the SRM. The
rotational speed of the input shaft of the engine or motor directly impacts the
gear ratio of the CVT, thereby affecting the overall performance of the motor
system [4]. Furthermore, the engagement of the centrifugal clutch at
approximately 1200 rpm is crucial for transmitting torque to the rear wheel
efficiently, highlighting the interplay between mechanical and electrical
components in optimizing SRM performance [4].

The research paper on the performance of switched reluctance motors (SRMs)

sheds light on the significant advancements and challenges associated with
these motors. SRMs have garnered considerable attention in recent decades,
leading to a surge in patents worldwide. While SRMs offer advantages such as
higher efficiency, a superior torque to inertia ratio, and thermal durability, they
are not without drawbacks. Issues like torque ripple, acoustic noise, and the
need for meticulous design considerations pose challenges for their
widespread adoption. The pivotal role of SRM design in determining
performance characteristics cannot be understated, especially in the context of
variable speed drives for automotive and industrial applications. The interplay
between mechanical and electrical components, exemplified by the
engagement of the centrifugal clutch for torque transmission, underscores the
complexity of optimizing SRM performance. Engineers must carefully consider
various factors influencing SRM performance, including the rotational speed of
the input shaft impacting gear ratio and overall system performance. Despite
 these challenges, SRMs stand out for their simple and robust construction,
reliability, durability, and low maintenance costs. Moreover, the ease of
filtering torque ripple with increasing motor operating frequency adds to their
appeal. Moving forward, future research in this area could explore ways to
mitigate drawbacks like torque ripple and noise further, optimize design
considerations for enhanced performance, and delve into novel applications
that leverage the unique characteristics of SRMs. By addressing these aspects,
researchers can contribute to the continual advancement and refinement of
SRM technology.

References

1.Switched Reluctance Motor Modeling and Loss Estimation Review.

from www.intechopen.com/chapters/72132

2.Design analysis and performance characteristics of Switched Reluctance Motor.

from ieeexplore.ieee.org/document/5578639

3.Performance Improvement of Switched Reluctance Motor Using Hybrid Excitation

Method Without Permanent Magnets.
from ieeexplore.ieee.org/document/9634295

4.Energies | Free Full-Text | Performance Improvement of a Switched Reluctance Motor

and Drive System Designed for an Electric Motorcycle.
from www.mdpi.com/1996-1073/15/3/694