A five phase reluctance motor, with high specific torque

An alternative topology for a synchronous reluctance motor (SRM) is proposed utilizing a novel five-phase, concentrated winding, wye connected stator. The corresponding inverter requires only 10 transistors, each of which operates at a better switch utilization factor than a conventional three-phase, six-transistor bridge. Linear analysis is used to search for an optimum pole arc and the required third harmonic of current to be added to the fundamental current waveform. These results have been backed by a more detailed analysis using the finite-element approach. It is found out that an addition of 33% third harmonic results in 10% more torque even when saturation is properly taken into account. Also, lower flux density in the air gap leaves room for deeper slots and consequently more copper, resulting in a potential further improvement in future designs.<>