Machine Section

Permanent Magnet Synchronous Machine (PMSM)

The automotive and transportation industries comprise the core markets for PMSMs. This machine type is known for its power density (power per unit of size/weight), and its higher speed capacity. OPAL-RT’s solutions provide resolver and encoder I/O interfaces and communications protocols to exchange time-accurate information and position sensor responses—crucial for the successful testing and simulation of this motor type.

The following PMSM models have been developed:

• Dual PMSM BLDC, which can simulate the following PMSM motor types:

  • PMSM Constant Ld/Lq

  • PMSM Variable Ld/Lq

  • BLDC Constant Ld/Lq

• Dual PMSM SH, which can simulate a PMSM Spatial Harmonics (SH) model that relies on finite element analysis

See Permanent Magnet Synchronous Machine Models Comparison for a comparison of the two models.

Squirrel-Cage Induction Machine (IM)

Induction motors are widely used as industrial drives because they are self-starting, reliable and economical. They’re also increasingly used with variable-frequency drives (VFDs) in variable-speed service, as well as in wind turbines, for example. OPAL-RT’s solutions support various machine configurations, machine parameters that can be modified at runtime, enabling flexible test possibilities--making our simulation tools indispensable for induction machine control testing.

The following IM models have been developed:

• Quad IM SM, which can simulate a Squirrel-Cage Induction Machine (SCIM)

Brushless DC Motor (BLDC)

A brushless DC motor or BLDC, is synchronous motors powered by direct current (DC) but which you control by feeding alternating current (AC) to drive each phase. The absence of brushes gives BLDC motors the ability to rotate at high-speed and increased efficiency, as well as being low maintenance and durable.

BLDCs have the advantage of being low maintenance, high efficiency, and durability.

• Dual PMSM BLDC, which can simulate a BLDC with Constant Ls motor type

Round Rotor Synchronous Machine (RRSM)

The Round Rotor Synchronous Machine (sometimes referred to as Electrically Excited Synchronous Machine) is used in similar applications as the PMSM where the defining difference is that instead of permanent magnets the rotor is excited from an external power supply and slip ring. RRSMs are becoming more popular in transportation applications as the reduced cost (due to no permanent magnets) and increased efficiency ranges make them attractive. The disadvantages of RRSMs are the maintenance costs of the slip ring and the additional inverter requirements.