An estimation of mechanical stresses in the stator of the NB-514 motor of an electric locomotive

The aim of the research is to determine the causes of cracks in stators of traction electric motors of the NB-514 series. The application of mathematical modeling using the finite element method, which allows one to evaluate the mechanical stresses arising in the stator under the influence of thermal and vibration loads, is considered. The results of thermal modeling are presented for uneven heating of the electric motor frame to temperatures typical for the hourly operation of a traction motor. The results of vibration modeling, including the study of natural vibration modes and frequencies, are also presented. Based on the results of the studies, it was concluded that the cause of the formation of cracks in the area of ventilation hatches is a complex of cyclically repeating temperature and vibration effects, creating points of mechanical stress with a large value in the area of crack formation. Vulnerabilities in the design of the electric motor frame have been identified. Options have been proposed for improving the design of the ventilation hatches of the frame, allowing reducing mechanical stresses with a constant area of the ventilation and inspection hatches.