Thermal Optimization of a High-Speed Permanent Magnet Motor

This paper investigates the losses of a high-speed permanent magnet motor. The iron losses are calculated by a model that can consider the skin effect and rotational loss. The rotor eddy current losses are estimated by a fast hybrid method that can consider the end effect. Pulse-width modulation (PWM) harmonics brought by the voltage source inverter (VSI) are considered in the loss calculations. Then the temperature distribution of the motor is evaluated by using the calculated loss results and computational fluid dynamic (CFD) modeling. Finally, based on the CFD results, the motor structure is optimized to achieve better rotor cooling. The outer slots are closed to force the cooling air flow through the rotor surface. Calculated temperature distributions and optimization results are verified by measurements.