Simulation and analysis of thermal processes of multiphase permanent magnet synchronous traction motor in emergency modes

Since the 1990s a new variable-speed drives, the multi-phase machine, has been developed with more and more success. This new machine, based on a concept of a bigger phase number than a classical three-phase machine, became an important contender for a multitude of applications. The major aspect for this machine type is doubtless the fault tolerance operation. Starting from this premise, it is interesting to understand how does the temperature change as a result of the faulty condition. In this sense a detailed argument about why it is possible to consider temperature as a key parameter is presented. A five-phase machine with a different open-phase condition is discussed and simulated. Finally, the temperature behavior for different machine part is shown and the advantages of the multi-phase configuration discussed.