Nonlinear Study of SRG Configurations Using Finite Element Analysis

Abstract

This paper, presents the non-linear analysis of the most common configurations of Switched Reluctance Generators (SRG). Finite Element Analysis (FEA) of two-phase (4/2), three-phase (6/4), and four-phase (8/6) SRGs have been carried out using (ANSYS Maxwell 16 - 3D Modeler - Transient solution). The simulation process was performed utilizing the Asymmetric Half Bridge Converter (AHBC) model as an external excitation circuit for the SRG model. Research interests have been dedicated recently to SRG as a promising and reliable candidate in both low-speed and high-speed applications, especially for small-scale renewable applications. However, this study includes the non-linear validation for both the conventional short-pitched and the fully-pitched SRG winding configurations at low-speed simulation conditions. This study aims to analyze the non-linear performance of SRG and validate the influence of stator and rotor pole angles ($\beta_{s}$ and $\beta_{r}$) variation in addition to the excitation current patterns on the induced output voltage. The dynamic performance of SRG has been simulated, with the exact description of rotor angular position, number of conductors per phase, and the excitation current pattern for each case study. The FE simulation was applied to the same SRG test model; i.e., the same dimensions, the same angular speed, and the same number of conductors per phase. Moreover, SRG FEA output results have been recorded and compared to the corresponding results delivered from a related SRG linear analysis study done by the authors; hence the final proposed design was highlighted for further prototype implementation. The outcome of this study provides the recommended SRG design that can generate the maximum induced output voltage for the same machine design parameters.