Comparison of different finite elements for 3-D eddy current analysis

In order to evaluate the best type of element for the finite-element analysis of 3-D eddy currents, a fundamental model is analyzed using the usual first-order tetrahedral, triangular prism, and brick nodal elements, and also the brick edge element. The effects of the types of elements on the flux and eddy-current distributions are investigated using the A- phi method and the T- Omega method. It is concluded that the brick edge element is best from the viewpoints of accuracy and CPU time.<>