Torque enhancement and re-rating of medium-voltage induction machines using nano-structured stator winding insulation

Abstract

This paper presents a multi-physics finite-element-analysis (FEA) model that is used to study the impacts of a new nano-structured stator winding insulation material in large propulsion electric machines. Electromagnetic and thermal simulations are performed in ANSYS Maxwell and Steady-state Thermal respectively, and then linked in ANSYS Workbench interface. Detailed construction of the multi-physics FEA model is provided. Moreover, comparison of the proposed insulation material and the conventional micaceous insulation on machine's electrical, magnetic, mechanical and thermal performances is given, which indicates the superiority of the proposed insulation material as well as the possibility of re-rating the machine to higher current, torque and power ratings.