Thermal Analysis of a Hybrid Excitation Linear Eddy Current Brake

In this paper, the thermal analysis of a hybrid excitation linear eddy current brake is presented. The air gap flux of the hybrid excitation linear eddy current brake is provided by the excitation windings and the permanent magnets. Therefore, the braking force produced by the eddy current brake is large and controllable. But, on the other hand, there is a high heating value in the excitation windings and conductor plate; hence, it is necessary to analyze thermal characteristics of the eddy current brake to avoid the declination of braking performance or even damage of the device. First, the structure and working principle of the eddy current brake are described. Second, the analytical model of the eddy current brake is built, and then the thermal network model of the eddy current brake is built taking the actual airflow around the eddy current brake into consideration. Finally, the validity of the thermal network model is verified by steady and dynamic thermal experimental measurements.