Axial-Flux Synchronous Reluctance Motors: Introduction of a New Machine

Abstract

This paper presents the design and analysis of a novel axial-flux synchronous reluctance motor (AFSynRM). A magnetic equivalent circuit (MEC) model for the proposed axial-flux machine is derived. The feasibility of fabrication is discussed. Finite-element analysis is applied to predict the performance of the proposed motor design. This paper provides a baseline study by comparing the performance of the proposed AFSynRM design with a similar rating radial-flux motor. The motors are designed to have similar volume and both have three rotor barriers. The operating parameters are obtained through static and dynamic FEA. The power, torque, power factor and efficiency of the motors are studied. The saturation and flux distribution in the motor structures are investigated.