Assessment of power losses of an inverter-driven induction machine with its experimental validation

Detailed power loss distribution in induction machines is assessed using time-stepped finite-element analysis coupled to circuit equations of an inverter. Losses are examined for various load conditions. Iron losses are largely unexplored and so particular attention is paid to them here. The simulation has revealed the division between ohmic, hysteresis, classic eddy-current, and anomalous losses; and the distribution in the frequency spectrum between fundamental, slotting, and multiples of the switching frequency. Insight is also gained into the spatial location of the loss. Experimental validation is provided for several fundamental frequencies from full-load to light-load conditions.