Finite Element Analysis of a Three Speed Induction Machine

Abstract

This paper deals with the Finite Element (FE) analysis of a special Three Speed Squirrel Cage Induction Machine (TSSCIM) with pole changing stator windings. Compared to classical multi-speed induction machines, the studied TSSCIM is designed so as to change in the same time the number of pole pairs (p) and the number of stator phases (m) so as to keep constant the product p x m. The numerical model of the machine used in this study is based on a 2D plane-parallel finite element approach and aims at finding some of the main steady state operation characteristics of the machine working both as motor and generator for three different running speeds. A comparison of the proposed TSSCIM with a classical inverter fed squirrel cage induction machine is also presented in order to underline some advantages and disadvantages of each solution.