Cogging Torque Reduction in Permanent-Magnet Brushless Generators for Small Wind Turbines

We present the design optimization of the magnetic pole and slot design options that minimize the cogging torque of permanent-magnet (PM) brushless generators for small wind turbine generators. Most small wind-turbines use direct-driven PM generators which have the characteristics of low speed and high efficiency. Small wind-turbines are usually self-starting and require very simple controls. The cogging torque is an inherent characteristic of PM generators, and is mainly caused by the generator's geometry. The inherent the cogging torque can cause problems during turbine start-up and cut-in in order to start softly and to run a power generator even when there is little wind power during turbine start-up. Thus, to improve the operation of small turbines, it is important to minimize the cogging torque. To determine the effects of the cogging torque reductions, we adjust the slot opening width, slot skewing, mounting method of magnets, magnet shape, and the opening and combinations of different numbers of slots per pole. Of these different methods, we combine the methods and optimized the design variables for the most significant design options affecting the cogging torque. Finally, we apply to the target design model and compare FEA simulation and measured results to validate the design optimization.