Methodology for Electromagnetic Optimization of a Partially Superconducting 1.4 MW Electric Machine for Electrified Aircraft Propulsion

Large transport aircraft with electrified propulsion systems require MW-class electric machines that have higher efficiency and power-to-weight ratio than existing machines. Superconducting machines are being evaluated as potential solutions. This paper presents a method to optimize the electromagnetic design of a partially superconducting machine in terms of these metrics and the approximate fuel burn of the aircraft. The optimization is based on 2D electromagnetic finite element simulations, a prediction of the superconducting coils’ critical current, and geometry relations that design the superconducting coils based on dependent variables while constraining the total cost of superconductor and ensuring adequate space for structure. The design process is completed by (1) a 3D electromagnetic finite element simulation to improve the prediction of torque and assess magnetic flux leakage, (2) refinement of the superconductor width for each individual racetrack coil, and (3) evaluating inverter-produced stator current harmonics on eddy current losses in the rotor.