Comparison of PM Vernier and Conventional Synchronous 15 kW Wind Generators

Abstract

This paper presents the 2D finite element analysis (FEA) based design optimization of a surface-mounted permanent magnet vernier machine (PMVM), and its comparison against the permanent magnet synchronous machine (PMSM) in a 15kW wind generator application. The PMVM's operating principle is briefly discussed, and attention is given to the selection of the number of stator slots, armature poles and rotor poles in order to achieve low active mass and good torque quality. The designed PMVM is also compared to a benchmark PMSM in terms of, amongst others, torque per mass, torque density, torque quality and power factor, by utilizing 2D FEA. It is concluded that the PMVM can be a competitive alternative to the PMSM in this application.