Performance analysis for a shaded-pole linear induction motor
The induction motor remains the prime mover of present day industry with it's associated components in drive applications. In many such applications, fractional horse-power motors find ready use in small mechanisms where three-phase power supply is not available. In Southern Africa, these motors can be used is rural areas with simple reticulation systems, hence the renewed interest in the development of these low-power electrical motors, especially specialised models such as linear versions of such motors for special applications. This research is in the area of single-phase LIMs. The objective has been to model the shaded-pole LIM, in an attempt to enhance it's performance through improved design methods. This was carried out using an integrated analysis approach, involving circuital and field theory in the analysis of the practical motor, and computer simulation of it's equivalent model using the finite element method. Linear counterparts are possible for all the various forms of rotating electrical machines. All cylindrical machines can be 'cut' along a radial plane and 'unrolled' [32]. LIMs convert electrical energy directly into mechanical energy of translatory motion. Some advantages of linear version of induction motors are: they are gearless and often require minimal material thus minimising cost. While their scope of application are somewhat limited when compared to rotary versions, they do however give excellent performance in special situations where translator motion is required. However, the output power-to-mass and output power-to-volume of active materials ratio is reduced compared to rotary induction motors[45]. These disadvantages are caused by the large air-gap and the open magnetic circuit, which produces parasitical effects.
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