An improved estimation of eddy-current losses distribution for squirrel cage induction motor using finite element method

In the proposed paper, an improved approach for the estimation of eddy-current losses distribution in a sheet from a squirrel cage induction motor is presented. The principle consists of combining finite element analysis with experimental measurements to determine the equivalent transverse electrical conductivity of a single sheet. The calculation is based on the assumption that the eddy-current losses are the same under the same flux density condition. The experimental conditions are reproduced in the simulation. Saturation effects have been taken into account. Varying the conductivity value step by step, the simulation repeats until eddy-current losses match that obtained in the experimental case. The 2D-finite element method is applied to obtain the flux density waveform at all points of a sheet. Eddy-current losses are determined on the basis of the field analysis. The equivalent conductivity obtained in this way can be used for modeling the magnetic circuit of an induction motor. The sheets used in this paper are taken from a 50-HP squirrel cage induction motor.