Cogging Torque Reduction in an Axial Flux PM Machine via Stator Slot Displacement and Skewing

Cogging torque is a source of vibration and noise in permanent-magnet (PM) machines. This torque is proportional to the PM flux and the reluctance variation, and is independent of the load current. In this paper, two methods for cogging torque reduction in an axial PM machine with field weakening capability are presented. The machine's rotor configuration considers two sections: one PM pole that provides the field excitation and one iron section in charge of providing low d-axis reluctance. Significant reduction of the cogging effects is achieved by adjusting stator geometry and rotor pole configuration. Three-dimensional finite-element analysis is used to demonstrate these improvements. Conclusions and design recommendations are presented for a 5-kW eight-pole PM machine prototype under construction