Thermal modelling of a fractional-slot concentrated-winding Kaman type Axial-Flux Permanent-Magnet machine

The aim of the paper is to present the thermal modeling of a Kaman type Axial-Flux Permanent-Magnet machine with fractional-slot concentrated-winding. This machine is air-cooled and equipped with specific arrangements to enhance heat dissipation. Thermal paths inside the machine are quite complex and require three-dimensional modelling. This is achieved through a lumped parameter network and subdivision of machine into cuboidal elements. The paper describes how thermal modeling is achieved and compares simulations with experimental results taken from a full scale prototype equipped with a number of thermocouples.