3D-FEA based comparison of the features of two hybrid-excited claw pole alternators

This paper is devoted to a 3D-finite element analysis (FEA) based comparison of two hybrid-excited claw pole alternators (HECPAs) with emphasis on their back-EMF production capability and eddy current losses. From a topological point of view, both machines present the same armature arrangement and are equipped by a toroidal field in the stator. They differ by their second source of excitation which is achieved by a NdFeB-PM in a candidate and by ferrite-PMs in the other. Following an analysis of the flux paths through their magnetic circuits, the machines are the subject of 3D-FEA that enables the investigation of their no-load features. Then, the study is extended to the load operation with a special attention paid to the computation of the iron losses.