Título: Magnetic Field Simulation and Torque-Speed Performance of a Single-Phase Squirrel-Cage Induction Motor: An FEM and Experimental Approach

Autor(es): BARZOLA IZA JHONNY JAVIER, CHANDI GARCIA JONATHAN FERNANDO

Fecha de publicación: 05-jun-2025

Resumen: This study presents a detailed investigation of the torque-speed characteristics of a WEG single-phase squirrel-cage induction motor (SPSCIM) of (1/2 hp), 110/220 V at 60 Hz. The primary objective was to derive the motor’s equivalent circuit and validate its performance curves through finite element analysis (FEA), simulation using MATLAB®/Simulink®, and experimental testing. Finite element simulations were conducted using the software FEMM (Finite Element Method Magnetics) to model the magnetic flux distribution within the motor’s stator and rotor. These simulations, based on the motor’s dimensions and nameplate data, provided essential insights into the electromagnetic behavior, including flux density and saturation effects, which are crucial for accurate torque-speed curve predictions. For experimental validation, tests were performed under open-circuit and locked-rotor conditions through a universal machine as a load emulator. The torque-speed characteristics were determined using the Suhr method and the classical approach, with the resulting curves compared to experimental measurements. Voltage and current were measured using AC PZEM-004T and DC PZEM-017 meters, while rotor speed was monitored with a Hall effect sensor (A3144). The results revealed strong agreement between the FEM simulations, Surh method, and experimental data, demonstrating the reliability and accuracy of the combined simulation and analytical methods for modeling the motor’s performance. The estimations using classical and Suhr methods, Simulink simulations, and FEMM yielded low error percentages, mostly below 2%. However, in the FEMM simulation, rotor resistance showed a higher error of around 20% due to unavailable data on the exact number of windings turns, a modifiable parameter that can be corrected through further adjustments in the simulation. The torque-speed curves obtained at different voltage levels showed an excellent correlation, confirming the effectiveness of the proposed approach in characterizing the motor’s operational behavior.

Palabras clave: induction motor; single phase; finite elements; experimental validation

DOI: https://doi.org/10.3390/machines13060492

ISSN: 20751702

Tipo publicación: Artículo