Semi-analytical modeling for linear motors with conductive media in high-dynamic applications

Linear motors in high-dynamic applications contain conductive surfaces which generate losses and parasitic forces due to eddy-currents. While FEA models can be implemented to estimate these effects accurately, longer computing time makes them unfavorable for a parametric analysis of the motor. Therefore, a computationally faster and accurate tool using semi-analytical techniques is developed for a linear motor delivering high-dynamic motion. One such example is a superconducting linear motor. To produce a reliable and cost-effective design, it is considered to house the superconducting coils in a conduction-cooled assembly with several conductive media to operate at a cryogenic temperature. However, cooling efficiency at this temperature is low and therefore, accurate estimation of the eddy-current losses is crucical for an economical design of the motor. The modeling technique is applied to a benchmark model of such a motor, delivering high-dynamic motion. When compared to FEA, the method shows a major improvement in computation speed with a relative error in instantenous loss and force under 3%. For these reasons, the developed method is suitable for a parameteric analysis of the motor.