Improved rotor configuration for starting current of permanent-magnet synchronous motor

High starting current is one of the most important issues which restrict the development of Permanent-Magnet Synchronous Motor(PMSM) which could result in the serious damage of the insulation premature. In this work, a novel rotor configuration based on YKK355-4 motor was developed based on the relationship between air-gap flux and groove clearance, which could significantly suppress a high temperature rising caused by instantaneous current. Finite-element analysis was employed in the analysis of transient and steady-state performance. The simulation results indicate that the proposed rotor configuration could achieve the similar starting current as asynchronous motor with same specifications.