Optimization of axial flux permanent magnet generator by Taguchi experimental method

Abstract

In this study, the optimization of air gap magnetic flux density of open slotted axial flux permanent magnet (AFPM) machine which was developed for wind turbine has been obtained using the Taguchi experimental method. For this, magnetic analyzes were performed by ANSYS Maxwell program according to Taguchi table. Then the optimum values have been determined and the average magnetic flux density values have been calculated for air gap and iron core under load and no-load conditions with ANSYS Maxwell. Traditionally, 15625 analyzes are required for 6 independent variables and 5 levels when experimental method is used. In this study, optimum values are determined by 25 magnetic analyzes, which use L25 orthogonal array. For this purpose, both factor effect graph and signal to noise ratios are used, according to the factors and levels which are obtained from the factor effect graph and the signal to noise ratio. Parameters are re-analyzed by Maxwell. The optimum factors and levels are determined. For optimized values, the air gap magnetic flux density is improved by 65.7% and 173.26%, respectively, according to the average value and the initial design. Therefore, the variables are optimized in a shorter time with Taguchi experimental design method instead of the traditional design method for open slotted AFPM generator. In addition, the results were analyzed statistically using ANOVA and Regression model. The variables were found to be significant by ANOVA. The degree of influence of the variables on the air gap magnetic flux density was also determined by the Regression model.