Optimization of average and cogging torque in 3-phase IPM motor drives

In this paper, an interior permanent magnet (IPM) brushless DC motor for traction applications is analyzed. The effect of magnetization direction, number of stator slots and current waveform on torque pulsation are examined. A three-phase, four-pole IPM motor is considered for the study. The finite element method is used to calculate the torque, reluctance torque, back iron flux density, tooth flux density, detent torque and back-EMF of the motor. It is shown that because of the reluctance torque resulting from rotor saliency, the peak point in the torque-angle curve is shifted to the left. Therefore, it is not possible to find the switching instants just by considering the direction of stator and rotor MMF and keeping the right angle between them. A Matlab program has been developed to rind the switching intervals, which will produce the maximum average torque and minimum cogging torque. Experimental results to support the simulation findings are included in the paper.