A comparison of finite-element models for 3-D rotating conductors

Four finite-element formulations for modeling eddy current problems which involve a rotating conductor are examined and compared. The formulations are based on the A-/spl psi/ representation. The first formulation uses a single fixed mesh, nodal A elements and the Minkowski transformation. The other three schemes have two meshes coupled using a Lagrange interface and the mesh containing the conducting region rotates. Two of the schemes use a nodal A formulation and the third uses edge A elements. The main purpose of the paper is to point out some of the pitfalls which can occur when modeling rotating conductors. By way of example, the four formulations are applied to a spinning annulus test problem.