Design and Initial Testing of a High-Speed 45-kW Switched Reluctance Drive for Aerospace Application

This paper presents innovative research toward the development of a 45-kW high-speed switched reluctance drive as an alternative starter-generator for future aeroengines. To perform such a function, the machine had to be designed with a very wide constant power-speed range. During engine-start/motoring mode, a peak torque demand of 54 N · m at 8 kr/min was met, while in generating mode, 19.2-32 kr/min, the machine was designed to deliver a constant power of 45 kW. The key enabling feature of the design lies in the novel rotor structure developed so as to allow for such a wide speed range. The results presented are those measured during the initial testing phase and validate the system design and performance in the low-speed region with the machine operated in starting mode. The measured machine power density is at 9.8 kW/L, while the global system efficiency is at 82%.