This project will involve theoretical and experimental evaluation of the optimum thermal management of the next generation of high power density traction motors. The work will involve performance evaluations of new sustainable materials (e.g. aluminium or aluminium clad distributed windings, non-rare earth magnets etc.) and novel thermal management techniques including but not limited to end winding direct cooling (jets, spray and full immersion) and slot cooling. The work will make use of existing 1D and 3D simulation tools correlated using a new optically accessed “motorette” rig and high speed visualisation. The end goal is to improve understanding of the performance impacts of such sustainable technologies over the full product life cycle.   

Project Supervisors: 

Dr Tianjie Zou

Professor Alasdair Cairns 

Interests:

High performance electrical motors, permanent magnet-free electrical motors, FEA analysis of electromechanical devices, and sustainability.