Optimization of induction motor design by using the finite element method

Optimization of the induction motor design can be considered from different view points. However, the nonlinear nature of this kind of motor does not allow the implementation of the classic analytical methods unless several simplified approximations on the magnetic characteristics and also the geometry of the motor are applied. In this work, a combination of finite element method and an iteration method, based on conjugate directions is used and an algorithm for the optimization of the IM design is proposed. The method is applied on a previously designed 3 kW induction motor and the results are compared against the manufacturer's data.