Comparative Study of E-Core and C-Core Modular PM Linear Machines With Different Slot/Pole Combinations

Four modular permanent magnet linear machines (PMLMs) with E-core and C-core primary segments and 12-slot/13-pole (12s/13p) and 12-slot/14-pole (12s/14p) slot/pole combinations are compared in this paper. The influences of flux gap width on the electromagnetic performances and power losses have been investigated based on 2-D finite-element modeling. It has been found that, by choosing proper flux gap width, not only the average thrust force can be improved but also the force ripple and iron losses can be reduced for all the machines. Also, the E-core modular PMLM has higher thrust force and lower detent force compared with the C-core modular PMLM with respect to the same slot/pole combination. Moreover, the 12s/13p modular PMLMs can achieve better electromagnetic performances than the 12s/14p ones regardless of E-core or C-core primary structures. Finally, by shaping the end teeth, the detent force and force ripple of the four modular PMLMs are further mitigated. The 12s/13p E-core modular PMLM is proven to be the best type among these four modular machines.