Reliability analysis of a nine-phase flux-switching PM machine

Recently, flux-switching permanent magnet (FSPM) machines, particular for multi-phase topologies have attracted wide interests due to the merits of high power density, strong fault-tolerant capability, and high efficiency, etc. However, the reliability of FSPM machines has never been reported although it is an important issue for electrical machines. Hence, in this paper, a reliability model of a nine-phase FSPM machine is established firstly based on the reliability analysis theory and method. Then, a reliability comparison between a three- and a nine- phase FSPM machine is conducted. Finally, the relationships and consequently, the design principle between the phase number and reliability of the FSPM machines are proposed, which are essentially useful to guide the selection of the phase number for the design of machines further.