Introduction

This topic is focused on design and development of electrical machines and drives that can achieve high performance for a large set of applications.

Description

Electricity is the energy of the future. However, the energy conversion to and from electricity should be as efficient as possible so that the environment can be preserved at an economically viable cost. A large part of the electrical energy is consumed by industrial electrical motors. In many cases, improvements can be implemented to reduce the consumption. Improving the motor itself (reduction of losses), adding variable speed through the introduction of a power electronics converter, changing to another type of motor (from induction to permanent magnet), or even taking away a gearbox from the conversion chain using new motor topologies are some of the possibilities. Similar solutions are also suitable for improving the generation of electricity from different environmentally friendly energy sources. The main challenge is to gather competence so that economically viable technical solutions with high performance electrical machines will be available in the future.

Competence profile

The competence profile of this research program is knowledge on the design and development of electrical machines and drives that can achieve high performance for a large set of applications. This includes development, and refinement, of analytical and finite-element models used to analyse present electrical machines as well as exploring novel use of these tools. It also includes verification of models in prototypes which is a prerequisite for product development. Based on the competence gathered around permanent magnet drives mainly for industrial applications for power lower than 100 kW, the research area will now be enlarged to other types of electrical machines and applications up to several megawatts.

Program goals

The overall goal of the competence program is to strengthen the competence already developed on permanent magnet machines and drives, and widen it to new areas of application. The general goals are (i) to develop knowledge on the different phenomena (from material to production techniques) influencing the performance of electrical machines and drives (ii) to develop models to design and demonstrate a number of prototypes, "technology demonstrators" in laboratory environment and (iii) to test and evaluate a number of prototypes in pilot projects together with industries.