2D Electromagnetic Analysis of PMSM Based on JMAG-Designer

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Contents
2D Electromagnetic Analysis of PMSM Based on JMAG-Designer...............................................................1
Introduction.................................................................................................................................................3
Methodology...............................................................................................................................................4
Model Configuration and Initial Setup.....................................................................................................4
Simulation Parameters............................................................................................................................5
Electrical Parameters...............................................................................................................................5
Physical and Design Parameters..............................................................................................................5
Stator and Slot Parameters......................................................................................................................5
Current Phasing and Alignment...............................................................................................................6
Simulation Execution and Analysis..........................................................................................................7
Mesh Plot Representation.........................................................................................................................14
Magnetic Flux Density Analysis..............................................................................................................15
Discussion..................................................................................................................................................16
Conclusion.................................................................................................................................................17
Reference..................................................................................................................................................19

Figure 1General geometry and terminology of a PMSM.............................................................................4

Figure 2. Field graph....................................................................................................................................6
Figure 3 Back EMF waveform over one electrical period.............................................................................8
Figure 4. Flux density distribution within the PMSM model........................................................................8
Figure 5 The graphical output......................................................................................................................9
Figure 6 Final output.................................................................................................................................13
Figure 7 Mesh Plot of the PMSM Model....................................................................................................15
 Introduction

The motor under study has a rated output of 550 W; the rated voltage is 220 V, and the operating

speed is 1500 r/min. The structural parameters of the motor are displayed in the tables provided

below, including other design features such as the rotor and stator size and the materials used.

The FEA method as employed in this paper offers more accurate insight about internal

conditions of the motor better performance optimizations which are important in both motor

design and fault diagnosis.A FEA simulation is conducted on BroadStone using Maxwell

software, with emphasis on the motor’s electromagnetic field characteristics under no-load

conditions. As applied to motor structure, the FEA divides the motor structure into small units to

solve partial differential equations for each, leading to reliable assessment of magnetic-field

distribution, required torque, and induced electromotive force.

The main advantage of the finite element approach over the analytic method is apparent through

the parameterized simulations; speed is sacrificed for accuracy, which is critical in fine

performance modeling. The results of the analysis are consistent with the stipulated design under

no-load conditions, little magnetic leakage and the lines of forces are closed. The data thus

provided affirms the notion that the initial design of motors complies with essential operational

requirements, thereby establishing reasonable premise for enhancement (Li & Liang, 2015). In

this way, the application of FEA in the research not only increases the accuracy of motor design,

but also helps to improve the accuracy of motor debugging and the efficiency of real life

application of equipment. This structured approach shows how simulation techniques employing

finite elements are important in enhancing motor characteristic as well as solving operational

issues.
 Methodology

This methodology describes the steps taken to conduct a 2D electromagnetic analysis of a

Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motor (PMSM) using JMAG software. The objective of this
analysis was to evaluate the PMSM’s back electromotive force (EMF), torque output, flux
distribution, and torque ripple under specific conditions.

Model Configuration and Initial Setup

The PMSM model chosen for this analysis followed a 12-slot, 4-pole topology with a slots-per-
pole-per-phase (S/P/P) ratio of 1. This configuration provided an effective baseline for studying
the motor’s performance characteristics and allowed for comprehensive parameter testing. Figure
1 shows the general geometry and terminology for the PMSM model used in this study.
Although the model is slightly different from the exact topology available in JMAG, it closely
resembles real-world applications and is suitable for simulation purposes.

Figure 1General geometry and terminology of a PMSM.

The setup of this model in JMAG required navigating through the software interface to the
“Study” section, selecting “Case Control”, and then choosing “Equations”. In the "Equations"
panel, various parameters were configured to define the simulation’s accuracy, time step
resolution, and motor performance variables.
Simulation Parameters

To capture detailed data over one electrical period, the Time Steps parameter was set to 90. This
high number of time steps ensured that the software could record the motor’s behavior at small
intervals, resulting in accurate waveforms for back EMF, torque, and flux density. Figure 2
presents an overview of the model’s configuration and setup within JMAG, showing the selected
parameters and settings. The Rotor Speed was configured at 2000 revolutions per minute (rpm),
which is representative of standard PMSM operating conditions. This speed provided a suitable
basis for assessing the electromagnetic performance without overloading the motor, helping to
prevent unrealistic performance expectations.

Electrical Parameters

The Phase Current Amplitude was defined at 20 Amps (A) to simulate the peak current applied
to each phase of the PMSM. The choice of a 20A current level aimed to replicate high-
performance operation, where the motor experiences substantial magnetic flux in the air gap. By
setting this peak current value, we could assess the motor's torque production and ensure that it
performed effectively under load.

Physical and Design Parameters

Several physical parameters were critical to the analysis. The Magnet Thickness was set at 4.0
millimeters (mm) to determine the magnetic field’s strength and influence the torque produced
by the motor. A 4.0mm magnet thickness provides a balanced approach to generating high flux
density while managing material cost and magnetic losses. The Relative Magnet Span Ratio
was defined as 0.75, representing the ratio of the magnet length to the pole pitch (Tm/Tp). This
value was critical in shaping the back EMF waveform, as a 0.75 span ratio provides adequate
magnetic coverage, which helps achieve a near-sinusoidal EMF. By setting this ratio, the study
aimed to reduce torque ripple, improve efficiency, and mitigate harmonics.

Stator and Slot Parameters

The Tooth Width parameter was set to 4.0mm. Each stator tooth width affects the path of
magnetic flux through the motor and has a direct impact on torque ripple. The 4.0mm tooth
width was chosen to provide a stable magnetic path while minimizing cogging torque. Along
with tooth width, the Slot Opening Factor was set to 0.3, which is the ratio of the slot opening
length to the slot pitch (Tsl/slot pitch) (Fitouri et al., 2016). This ratio controls the slot width,
impacting the amount of flux leakage, harmonics, and resulting noise and vibration. A slot
opening factor of 0.3 is optimal for maintaining a smooth flux path while minimizing energy
loss.

Current Phasing and Alignment

The Current Phase Angle was set to 0°. This phase angle determines the alignment between the
current vector and the EMF vector, directly impacting the torque generated by the motor. A zero-
degree angle represents optimal phasing, allowing the PMSM to achieve maximum torque with
minimal power losses. This setting is ideal for high-efficiency operation and peak torque
performance, especially under constant-load conditions.

Figure 2. Field graph

Figure 4: Current phasing and alignment for optimal torque.

Simulation Execution and Analysis

Once the parameters were configured, the simulation was executed to analyze the motor’s
electromagnetic properties over one electrical period. The results included waveform outputs for
back EMF, flux density, and torque characteristics. Figures 5 and 6 show examples of these
waveform outputs. In particular, the back EMF waveform was analyzed for sinusoidal properties,
as more sinusoidal back EMF results in smoother motor operation with reduced noise and
vibration.
Figure 3 Back EMF waveform over one electrical period.

Figure 4. Flux density distribution within the PMSM model.

The torque ripple was calculated from the torque waveform, with a primary focus on determining
the effect of the magnet span and tooth width on ripple amplitude. Reducing torque ripple is
essential in PMSM designs to ensure smooth rotational motion and avoid oscillations that could
lead to mechanical stress and reduced component lifespan.
Figure 5 The graphical output
Insights into the Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motor (PMSM) efficiency can be derived from

an analysis of the three-phase counter-electromotive force (CEMF) under no-load and rated load

conditions. Ideally, in no load condition, counter-EMF set up by the rotation of permanent

magnets against the stator winding behaves in a sine wave form. The no load CEMF calculated is
approximately 211.42 V slightly below the phase voltage specified at 220V with a simulated

error of approximately 3.9%. Although it shows variation of this small deviation is permissible

giving out a nod that the motor is manufactured according to the intended design. Magnetic

imaging in the motor exhibits valuable information on performance and structural stress while in

use under the rated load conditions. The maximum and minimum magnetic induction strength

value of 1.8 T and 4.7 × 10⁻⁶ T respectively are within the range of 1.6-2.7 T. This range also

demonstrates that the motor adheres to a maximum permissible level of magnetic stress within

the stator slot area which is the region of highest magnetic resistance. Furthermore, the

confinement of the magnetic field flux lines also ensures that the leakage is kept to the minimum,

which is pillar to better design and minimal waste of energy, hence high motor performance will

always be achieved.

The three phase magnetic flux linkage that is the product of the coil turn and magnetic flux is

also symmetrical at the time the motor is synonymous to the 1500 r/min Moreover, the

distribution of current in phases shows nearly symmetry though there is a slight loss of symmetry

due to a little harmonic effects. The peak current is at about 1.5461 A and the effective current

value and the rated current are 1.1637 A and 1.443 A respectively and thus the simulation error

is 7.14%. While this type of error is slightly higher than for the previous task it is still acceptable

to ensure correct motor performance. The findings of this study therefore help to solidify the

motor for stability and ensure its conformation to standard design requirements so as to take an

informed approach to future enhancements for actual reliability, and efficiency in use.
Figure 6 Final output
Surprisingly, a comparative analysis of the final results indicates the greatest efficiency in this

PMSM simulation was 94.78 % at 2000 rpm and 100% load. It was found from general analysis

of efficiency that efficiency increases slightly with decrease in the load. However, the maximum

efficiency was recorded precisely at the full load and the base speed, meaning that motor

operates most efficiently at this condition. Concerning torque behavior the analysis indicated that

torque reduces with the increase of load in a reciprocal manner. For instance, at the point where

the load is set to 100% the performance of the torque was awhile 21.4864 Nm. Under a load

level of 25%, the torque became equivalent to 5.3115 Nm, and thus, one-fourth of the value,

which was measured at the start of the exercise. This direct proportionality is consistent with the

expectation that torque is mainly a function of current because torque in the PMSMs is

proportional to the current amplitude within the motor windings. It was also noteworthy that no

substantial deviations of torque were subject to changes in speed at a given load, thus confirming

the dependence of torque on the current rather than speed.

Upon evaluating the output power, the simulated data prove a maximum output power of

4500W, 100% load, 2000 rpm base speed. Wherever, the load was still 100% and yet the speed

was down, the output power was down in the same ratio. For example, at 1000 rpm the power

produced declined to 2250W, which was only half the initial output of the first 2000 rpm. There

was an observed linear trend of speed and output power at a given load as observed in the

simulations above. Likewise, when the load was cut off, it was seen that the output power also

fell down as anticipated because of lower mechanical requirement of the motor load.
 Mesh Plot Representation

The use of the mesh greatly influences the outcome of results in the finite element analysis. In

this study, additional mesh refinement was realized in order to improve the solution accuracy.

Besides the default mesh settings of default mesh region given by the RMXpert design

module of Ansys, three areas of custom mesh sizes were incorporated. The first was used for the

application of the air gap with a mesh size of particles 1mm. The second custom mesh was

placed on the surface of the magnet and the third one on the surface of the rotor The size of all

three meshing zones was changed to 1 mm to attain a high local resolution in these areas.

Moreover, the initial three default mesh regions from RMXpert package were fine meshed by

anonimizing the slider in Ansys so as to get denser mesh at maximum feasibility.

Figure 7 Mesh Plot of the PMSM Model

The denser mesh in these regions provided better resolution in the solution, particularly evident

in the voltage and flux density graphs. This fine mesh configuration allowed for more accurate

magnetic field calculations and better convergence in the simulations, contributing to a more

reliable representation of the motor’s performance.

Magnetic Flux Density Analysis

The last vital outcome of the present simulation was the magnetic flux density distribution.

During consideration of the Max B (flux density) map, pin-like crimson areas were seen around

the edges, especially in areas with high flux. The maximum was 1.834T that is not too damaging

to the material maximum required flux density being 1.9T. These red zones appear to show areas

of maximum magnetic field density yet remain well within the tolerance limit of the material.

Reaching the conditions of material saturation of the flux. The study carried out shows that when

the terminal voltage is very close to or very much different from the desired voltage, there are

more than normal red areas and it is either the motor is saturated magnetically or the amount of

flux capacity available in the motor is underutilized. Therefore, some parameters influencing

terminal voltage such as magnetizing branch current and other operational parameters were

adjusted to obtain the best flux distribution to minimize saturation effects. For the final design

the flux density distribution was fine tuned to be as close as possible to the material limit without

reaching it, thus the motor was able to maintain maximum efficiency at its highest level possible.

Their close maintenance of terminal voltage current and rms flux density guaranteed the motor’s

efficiency at all load levels and dependable output.

 Discussion

The analysis of Back Electromotive Force (EMF) and output torque reveals key distinctions

between motors with full-pitch and 31° magnet pole arcs, highlighting the influence of harmonic

content and torque ripple on motor performance. The Back EMF for a full-pitch magnet pole arc

is more trapezoidal due to higher harmonic presence, which affects the sinusoidal shape. This

increase in harmonics results in additional noise, vibrations, and ripples, thereby impacting the

motor's overall operational stability. In contrast, the Back EMF in a motor with a 31° magnet

pole arc demonstrates a more sinusoidal waveform, attributed to the reduced harmonic content.

This reduction leads to smoother operation with fewer noise and vibration issues, which is

desirable in most applications. In terms of output torque, both designs achieve similar average

torque values around 0.88 N.m. However, the torque ripple varies significantly, with the full-

pitch magnet pole arc experiencing a high torque ripple of 94.38%, while the 31° arc reduces this

to just 17.04%. The torque ripple reduction in the 31° design enhances performance by

minimizing fluctuations, ensuring a more consistent torque output, which is critical for

applications that require smooth operation and low mechanical stress. In conclusion, the study

demonstrates that a 31° magnet pole arc provides advantages in reducing both Back EMF

harmonics and torque ripples, leading to a quieter and more stable motor operation.

Conclusion

This static 2D electromagnetic analysis of the Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motor (PMSM)

allows understanding of the motor behavior under different load and speed scenarios. The

highest efficiency of 94.78% was recorded at 2000 RPM and with 100% load; an indication of

the best working point of the motor. There was an improvement of efficiency with a decrease in

load as a general trend but the best efficiency was obtained at maximum load with base speed
indicating that this configuration produces the maximum efficiency and power ratings. Torque

characteristics showed the relationship with load where it was low when the load was also low.

The torque was 21.4864 Nm at 100% load and reduced to 5.3115 Nm at 25% load of current

proving the torque current relationship. Output power also had linear relation with speed proving

the fact that output power can be regulated by changing the speed within some limit of the load.

Mesh quality was therefore identified as another vital factor that need to be considered when

determining the accuracy of simulations in the study. Important aspects like air gap, magnet, and

rotor surface, the mesh was refined to allow a better computation of magnetic fields. This led to

improved representations of voltage and the same for the flux density, which enhanced the

reliability of the analysis. The flux density was brought to 1.834T, still within the acceptable

operational limit of 1.9T for the material. Small modifications to the terminal voltage kept the

distribution of the flux density close to the optimum level to avoid saturation and maintain high

efficiency levels. In conclusion, this paper has established that with proper control of design

parameters such as terminal voltage, load and mesh quality, PMSM can perform well in terms of

efficiency power and reliability and as such could suit areas of application that require constant

supply of power and minimal down time.

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