Survey on Applying 3D Printing in Manufacturing the Cooling Systems of Electrical Machines

Additive manufacturing, also known as 3D printing, comprises the layer-by-layer depositing of a great variety of materials for processing parts of even very great complexity. This new industrial approach opens diverse innovative design perspectives in almost all industries, including the fabrication of electrical machines. There is constant stress on designers working in this field to improve efficiency and quality, even if the current manufacturing technology is at its maximum. Therefore, only a breakthrough in design concepts and fabrication can lead to so many needed improvements. Additive manufacturing can be the key to further developments in electrical machines fabrication since almost all its parts (iron cores, windings, housing, etc.) can be produced using this revolutionary method. In this paper, the possibilities of applying these new fabrication technologies to diverse cooling systems of electrical machines are surveyed. Also, the major advantages brought about by this new industrial approach are emphasized.