Modular switched reluctance machine with E-core stators and segmental rotors for high reliability applications

• This paper presents a modular SRM with E-core stators and segmental rotors.
• A simplified 2D FEA model is proposed to calculate the magnetic characteristics.
• A comparison between the modular SRM and a conventional SRM is made.
• The fault tolerant performance of this modular SRM under open-circuit fault is presented.
• Experimental results are presented to validate the analysis and simulation.

In this paper a novel modular switched reluctance machine (SRM) with E-core stators and segmental rotors is presented. Unlike the conventional SRMs, there are hybrid radial and axial magnetic paths in the E-core stators due to the particular construction. An approximate and simplified 2D finite-element analysis (FEA) model is proposed to calculate its magnetic characteristics and compared with 3D FEA model results. A comparison of the static magnetic characteristic and dynamic performance between the modular SRM and a conventional SRM is made to emphasize the superiority of this novel SRM. Furthermore, the fault tolerant performance of this modular SRM under open-circuit faults is also presented. Finally, a prototype machine is built and tested in the laboratory. The flux linkage characteristics are experimentally obtained by indirect method and are compared with FEA results. Other experimental results such as single-pulse operation, closed-loop control operation, fault-tolerant operation at open-circuits and sudden change in load torque operation are also presented to validate the analytical and simulation results of the modular SRM and its performance.