Axial-Field Electrical Machines - Design and Applications

Axial-field electrical machines offer an alternative to the conventional machines. In the axial-field machine, the airgap flux is axial in direction and the active current carrying conductors are radially positioned. This paper presents the design characteristics, special features, manufacturing aspects and potential applications for axial-field electrical machines. The experimental results from several prototypes, including d.c. machines, synchronous machines and single-phase machines are given. The special features of the axial-field machine, such as its planar and adjustable airgap, flat shape, ease of diversification, etc., enable axial-field machines to have distinct advantages over conventional machines in certain applications, especially in special-purpose applications.