ABSTRACT
The magnetic equivalent circuit (MEC) method introduces another approach for modeling electric machines. The approach can be considered as a reduced order finite element method. MEC usually provides a deep understanding about effects of the machine geometry and design data on its parameters and performance. Although winding function approach is based on calculating machine inductances, the magnetic equivalent circuit method can be used in two ways, indirect one and direct one. An electric machine is assumed to be a quasi-stationary device; that is, any change of current that builds the flux is followed by an immediate change of flux. To construct the magnetic equivalent circuit of an electric machine, all yoke parts, teeth, slots, air-gap tubes between the stator teeth and rotor teeth, and windings are modeled. Currents flowing in the windings are the magnetomotive force sources in the magnetic equivalent circuit of an electric machine.
