Inductance identification of an induction machine taking load-dependent saturation into account

The paper proposes an identification method for the inductances of induction machines, based on signal injection. Due to magnetic saturation, a saturation-induced saliency appears in the induction motor, and the total leakage inductance estimate depends on the angle of the excitation signal. The proposed identification method is based on a small-signal model that includes the saturation-induced saliency. Because of the saturation, the load also affects the estimate, and measurements are needed in different operating points. Using the identified total leakage inductance, an estimate of the stator inductance can be obtained. The identification method is applied to computer simulations and laboratory experiments of a 2.2-kW induction motor.