Experimental performance evaluation of a variable reluctance motor / Saiful Firdaus Abdul Shukor

The Variable reluctance motor (VRM) and generator (VRG) are now under development as the prime mover in aerospace actuators, and the prime source in aerospace power systems respectively. Among the advantages of the VRM and VRG in these applications are the absence of permanent magnets, and the magnetic and electric independence of their phases, which improve reliability, the mechanical integrity of their rotors which permits high-speed high-power-density operation and their ability to operate in high temperature environment. This project will discuss an experimental study of the variable reluctance motor (VRM). The VRM is known for its simplicity, reliability, high power density, controllability, and brushless and variable speed. The VRM, however, requires some form rotor position sensing and a drive converter. The project work involves development of the drive circuit, setting the test rig and determination of flux linkage waveform.