Electronically controlled flux switching motors : a comparison with an induction motor driving an axial fan

This paper presents a new class of brushless motor, which has been evaluated driving a 9" axial fan. The axial fan would normally be driven by a capacitor run induction motor. The new flux switching machine is constructed within the original stator laminations of the induction machine and is controlled by an extremely simple electronic controller. The paper describes the flux switching motor concept, its simple electronic controller and presents some test results of the motor driving the fan at its normal running speed. A comparison of the acoustic noise produced by the two motors shows that the new flux switching motor and drive is within 1 dBA of the induction machine in this acoustically sensitive application.