Implementation of different 2D finite element modelling approaches in axial flux permanent magnet disc machines

Three-dimensional (3D) finite element (FE) modelling of axial flux permanent magnet (AFPM) motors is one of the time-consuming tasks which must be completed before manufacturing the prototype motor. A simple, fast, accurate, and effective numerical modelling approach for such 3D problems would be particularly useful for researchers. This study presents simple and effective 2D FE modelling approaches for AFPM motors with good accuracy with less computational effort. The modelling approaches are based on a number of 2D models or planes with inner rotor, outer rotor, or linear motor topologies. All the 2D planes with either topology are superposed together to represent the real AFPM machine. These approaches are examined in detail with various types of experimentally verified AFPM motors. Results obtained from the proposed modelling approaches are verified with 3D FE analyses and experimental data. The results indicate that the proposed 2D modelling approaches can significantly reduce the computation time with good accuracy as opposed to conventional 3D FE modelling of AFPM motors.