Three-dimensional investigation of velocity skin effect in U-shaped solid armature

A three-dimensional transient computational model is applied to investigate the velocity skin effect (VSE) in a U-shaped solid armature. With this model, current and heat transport in the armature can be evaluated accurately. The results show a local concentration of current and joule heating at the interface, and significant damage occurs at the edges of the armature. It is also observed that there is significant enhanced heating at sharp corners because of the armature geometry. The three-dimensional model can efficiently capture the salient features of the physical phenomena at the rail–armature interface, and contribute to the development of the armature design.