A Holistic Analysis and Experimental Testing of a Passive Heat Path for Electric Motors Slots

1 Abstract-This paper presents a thorough and broad analysis of the passive slot heat path concept. Six heat path shapes are proposed and compared in terms of their combined thermal and electrical performance. Through an extensive search pool that covers a wide range of motor and slot designs and operating conditions, this paper assesses the heat removal capabilities of the heat path from the slot. The analysis is performed through a lumped parameter thermal network approach. Additionally, statistical analyses using correlations and linear regression models are carried out to improve understanding of this concept. Furthermore, a neural-network model is created to improve the regression model accuracy in predicting the slot temperature and temperature reduction. Finally, experimental testing and validation of the modelling are carried out on one of the six heat path shapes.