Copper winding losses in matrix converter-fed induction motors: A study based on skin effect and conductor heating

The potential for increasing electrical efficiency in two induction motors (nominal power 15 kW and 3 kW) under space-vector modulated [SVM] matrix converter-supply is analysed. Skin effect losses in stator copper conductors can be reduced by up to 1.5% at medium speed when compared to losses under DC-link carrier-based PWM two-level converter excitation. The investigation, which uses the thermal network technique to account for internal heating, reveals that the beneficial effect of line-line matrix converter supply on iron losses must be considered to capitalize on energy saving potential of low-power variable-speed drives built around asynchronous motors.