High performance axial flux permanent magnet synchronous motor for high speed applications

High speed motors rotating at speeds above 10,000 rpm are gaining more attention nowadays for various high performance applications. High efficiency and reliability are demanded by the applications like centrifugal compressors, pumps, machine tools, drills, aerospace etc. This paper presents novel design and analysis of a high speed axial flux permanent magnet motor for high speed, low power applications. The major issues and challenges in the electromagnetic, mechanical and thermal design of high speed axial flux motors are discussed. The motor is designed to rotate at a speed of 30000 rpm. The proposed axial flux motor has light, yet strong, well-balanced rotor. The designed motor is optimized for obtaining superior performance. MagNet 3-D and OptiNet are used for the Finite Element Analysis (FEA) and optimization of the motor respectively and the results are presented. Finally, the fabricated motor is tested using sensorless Field Oriented Control (FOC) for experimental verification.