Permanent-Magnet Optimization in Permanent-Magnet-Assisted Synchronous Reluctance Motor for a Wide Constant-Power Speed Range

A permanent-magnet (PM)-assisted synchronous reluctance (PMASR) machine exhibits both high efficiency and high flux-weakening (FW) range. However, the best performance is achieved after a machine design optimization. In industry applications, the design of PMASR machines requires to satisfy an increasing number of limitations. The key points are lamination geometry, material property, and control strategy. This paper analyzes the influence of PM volume (flux level) on the motor performance, although lamination geometry and stack length are kept fixed. Thus, the PM volume inset in the rotor is optimized. The considered PMASR motor is designed for a very high FW speed range. The study is based on a finite-element (FE) analysis. The accuracy of the FE simulations is verified comparing their results with measurements on a prototype. The FE model is then used to study the different cases.