Design and optimization of a dielectric-gas-based single-phase electrostatic motor

Electrostatic motor can work as a supplement to the electromagnetic motor due to its simple structure, low cost, light weight, and high efficiency. Increasing the applied voltage under ultra-high vacuum (UHV) condition and using dielectric liquid with high relative permittivity are two approaches to increase its torque and make electrostatic motors competitive with the electromagnetic ones. This paper presents a dielectric-gas-based single-phase electrostatic motor with simplified construction. 3-D finite element analysis (FEA) simulation and optimization process of the electrostatic motor is performed and an electrostatic motor with a torque of 0.25 Nm and power of 50 W is designed. 3-D printing is used to build a prototype machine to eliminate the process of mould manufacture and achieve a weight reduction. Predicted capacitance of machine is compared with measured result and good agreement is achieved.