Browsing by Author "Howard, Eduan"

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    Design optimisation of reluctance synchronous machines: a motor and generator study
    (Stellenbosch : Stellenbosch University, 2017-12) Howard, Eduan; Kamper, M. J.; Stellenbosch University. Faculty of Engineering. Dept. of Electrical and Electronic Engineering.
    ENGLISH ABSTRACT: This study focuses on the design and optimisation of the recently popular synchronous reluctance machine. The increase of this machine's popularity is because of its inherent high effciency, with industry pushing for an ever higher efficiency machine drive package. The study proposes design techniques that can be implemented in the design process to minimise or remove the inherent weaknesses. Machines designed by implementing the study techniques are manufactured and tested, with proposed design techniques validated through testing. Finally, the developed machine model is implemented in a design study in the high power range for wind generator application. It was found, assuming mechanical feasibility, that the type of machine can be implemented in the very high power range, with competitive efficiency and power factor values achieved. In order to even further improve machine performance and thus its competitiveness, an assisted reluctance synchronous machine model is proposed and optimised by implementing a retrofit rotor design and pre-designed machine stator. Results of this proposed machine indicate highly competitive machine performance, comparable with currently implemented machines in the field, thus warranting further investigation.