PM assisted synchronous reluctance machine design using AlNiCo magnets

The absence of field excitation on the rotor of the synchronous reluctance machine, results in poor power factor and low power density when compared to permanent magnet synchronous machines. To mitigate these problems, permanent magnet assisted synchronous reluctance machines were introduced. The inserted permanent magnet boosts the machine's power factor and enhances its power density. In this paper a new topology for permanent magnet assisted synchronous reluctance machines using low cost AlNiCo magnets is proposed. The results of the proposed design with various magnet dimensions using AlNiCo magnets are compared with a previously designed and prototyped synchronous reluctance machine. Simulations for the same magnet dimensions are also carried out using a rare earth magnet material to study the effect of magnet type on the machine's performance. A final design using AlNiCo magnets is chosen based on the gain in the power density, manufacturing cost, and the power factor improvement. The proposed design is also compared with a conventional PM assisted SynRM topology.