Consideration on Eddy Current Reduction Techniques for Solid Materials Used in Unconventional Magnetic Circuits

The use of solid materials in tubular, linear machines has significant manufacturing benefits, as this removes the need for an axially laminated stator. However, this comes at the cost of extra eddy current losses. In this paper, a detailed analysis of the behavior of eddy currents in a tubular permanent magnet machine that comprises unconventional magnetic circuit is given, highlighting the importance of the field distribution and current directions, when compared with conventional magnetic circuits. This analysis is then used to identify and investigate the appropriate eddy current reduction methods for tubular machines, when a solid material stator is being used. Accurate three-dimensional models have been built and then validated on previously built testing setups. Different winding configurations have been accounted. Finally, considerations of these techniques are given when being implemented into an actual, tubular machine design, highlighting the improved performance and losses.