Characterization of A Synchronous Reluctance Machine For Mine Shuttle Traction Applications

This paper is concerned with the characterization of a synchronous reluctance machine (SynRM) intended for use in mine shuttle traction vehicles. The induction machine is presently used for the mine shuttle electric vehicles and thus the same induction machine stator was used for the SynRM rotor. Parameters of interest used for the characterization is the torque, d-q inductance and the dynamic response of the SynRM. Considering previous work done, the SynRM compares well with induction machine. However unlike the induction machine the SynRM does not suffer from rotor cooling challenges. This further entails that the SynRM has capability to carry more current than rated without overheating as compared to the induction machine. A higher capability of producing more torque than the induction machine. This therefore makes the SynRM a desirable candidate for mine shuttle traction applications. The IM had a 34% higher torque per ampere as compared to the SynRM rotor used in the same stator of the IM. The IM had to its advantage an optimally designed rotor and stator (including winding configuration) as compared to the SynRM. The SynRM registered lower torque ripples of 9% at higher current angle as compared to the optimal current angle.