Influence of magnet dimensions on the performance of a single-phase line-start permanent magnet motor

This paper investigates the effects of changing the volume and position of permanent magnets in a single phase line-start permanent magnet motor. Using a time-stepped finite element model the breakdown of losses in an industrial prototype is presented. A number of new designs are investigated with the breakdown of losses used to illustrate the effects of design changes. The best new design is shown to be capable of improved performance when compared to the industrially designed prototype, with 24% less permanent magnet material and simplified construction. This design offers a 39% reduction in electrical costs when compared to the same frame size induction motor.