A high-performance electric motor with fault tolerant capability for aerospace application

Abstract

This study discusses the research, simulation and analysis of electrical motors for utilization in the field of aerospace. The objective of this project is to select the most appropriate design of motor, considering the needs of the non-propulsion based systems in an aircraft. To be deemed suitable, these attributes include overall high performance, high torque density and a sturdy construction. Additionally, a high level of fault tolerance is a key attribute for this project. Due to a more sinusoidal back EMF, high average torque and a robust build, FSPM motor was selected to conduct simulations.

Fault tolerant features which include, an E-core Stator, a Modular Stator and multi-phase design, were implemented in the motor to improve its fault tolerance. In order to test this aspect, single phase Short-circuit and open-circuit conditions were introduced. Simulation results under fault and normal conditions indicate that the FSPM motor with a combination of E-core and dual three-phase performed the best in terms of fault tolerance and overall performance.