Eddy currents in windings of switched reluctance machines

This thesis analyzes eddy currents in windings of switched reluctance machines. Since common design tools neglect these losses, the performance of new machine designs is often overestimated. To calculate the eddy current losses a complex two-dimensional finite element model is presented. The model can simulate any transient operating point, considering all relevant machine losses. An automated generation process allows the detailed modeling of any number of individual winding conductors. Besides the determination of converter, iron and copper losses the model also contains a new method to consider the so-called end-effects. Using the implemented finite element tool, the winding geometry of a traction machine is optimized. By changing the conductor dimensions, the losses are significantly reduced and efficiency accordingly increases. Based on numerous simulation results it is analyzed in how far analytic loss calculations are reasonable for switched reluctance machines. Finally, it is investigated to what extent the eddy currents influence the general electromagnetic machine behavior.