Electrical Actuators Lab

0908326

Mechatronics Engineering Department

Electrical Actuators Lab’s Project

Synchronous Motor

Students’ names ID

Yazan Al Sarayrah 0199454

Deemah Alhwaide 0199302

Eng. Sara Al Tamimi

August 12, 2023

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Contents
List of Figures:..........................................................................................................3

Abstract:....................................................................................................................4

Introduction:.............................................................................................................5

How it works: ...........................................................................................................7

Synchronous motors characteristics ....................................................................10

Types of synchronous motors ................................................................................12

Industrial Application of synchronous motors ....................................................16

Conclusion...............................................................................................................17

Reference .................................................................................................................17

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List of Figures:
Figure 1: Construction of Synchronous Motor ................................................. 6
Figure 2: Working Principle .............................................................................. 6
Figure 3: Structure of synchronous motor ........................................................ 6
Figure 4: Revolving Magnetic Field .................................................................. 7
Figure 5: Magnetic Lock ................................................................................... 8
Figure 6: Squirrel Cage Induction Motor ......................................................... 8
Figure 7: Permanent magnetic synchronous motor (PMSM) ......................... 12
Figure 8: SPMSM ............................................................................................ 12
Figure 9: IPMSM............................................................................................. 13
Figure 10: Separately excited synchronous motor (SESM) ............................. 13
Figure 11: 6/4 Switched reluctance motor (SRM) ........................................... 14
Figure 12: Synchronous reluctance motor (Syn RM) ...................................... 15

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Abstract:

This Report provides a concise overview of synchronous motors, focusing on their

operation, characteristics, types, and industrial applications. Synchronous motors,
distinct from asynchronous (induction) motors, exhibit constant speed regardless of
load, making them suitable for precision applications. Their functionality stems from
the synchronization between the stator's rotating magnetic field and the rotor's
magnetic field. Synchronous motors encompass two main categories: permanent
magnet and electromagnet types. Permanent magnet synchronous motors utilize
embedded magnets in the rotor, while electromagnet versions employ energized
electromagnets, allowing advanced control. Noteworthy advantages include
constant speed, efficiency, and power factor correction, yet synchronization
complexities exist. This paper outlines the principles governing synchronous motor
operation, explores its diverse types, delves into the roles of power factor correction
and voltage regulation, and identifies applications such as robotics and precision
machinery. By examining strengths and limitations, this abstract aids in evaluating
synchronous motor suitability for specific use cases.

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Introduction:

A synchronous motor is an electric motor that operates in synchronization with the

frequency of the alternating current (AC) power supply. Unlike asynchronous
motors, which are commonly known as induction motors, synchronous motors
maintain a constant speed regardless of the load applied to them. This inherent
characteristic makes them particularly suitable for applications where precise speed
control is required, such as in industrial processes, power generation, and certain
types of machinery.

The operation of synchronous motors is based on the principle of synchronism

between the rotating magnetic field produced by the stator and the magnetic field of
the rotor. The stator's winding is energized with AC power, creating a rotating
magnetic field that interacts with the rotor's magnetic field. To maintain
synchronization, the rotor must turn at the same speed as the rotating magnetic field.
Synchronous motors can be broadly categorized into two types: non-excited (also
known as permanent magnet) and excited (also known as electromagnet).

1. Non-excited (Permanent Magnet) Synchronous Motors: These motors

have permanent magnets embedded in the rotor. The interaction between the
stator's rotating magnetic field and the rotor's permanent magnets causes the
rotor to turn in synchronization with the AC power supply frequency. These
motors are known for their simplicity, efficiency, and reliability, making them
suitable for various applications such as electric vehicles, robotics, and
smaller industrial machinery.
2. Excited (Electromagnet) Synchronous Motors: In these motors, the rotor is
made up of electromagnets rather than permanent magnets. The
electromagnets are energized using a separate direct current (DC) power
source, creating a controllable magnetic field. This allows for greater control
over the motor's performance, including speed and torque. Excited
synchronous motors are often used in applications where precise control and
high performance are essential, such as large industrial processes, power
plants, and transportation systems.

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Key advantages of synchronous motors include their constant speed operation, high
efficiency, and ability to provide and maintain power factor correction, which
contributes to overall energy efficiency in industrial settings. However, synchronous
motors require an external power source to maintain synchronization, which can
make their control and operation more complex than induction motors.

Figure 2: Working Principle Figure 1: Construction of Synchronous Motor

Figure 3: Structure of synchronous motor

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How it works:

Synchronous motors can run at a constant speed without taking account of the load
acting on it.
They are machines with high efficiency and are usually used in high precision
applications.
The constant speed characteristics are achieved by interacting between a constant
and rotating magnetic field (RMF), rotor produces a constant magnetic field and
stator produces a revolving magnetic field.
The field coil of the stator is excited by a 3-phase ac supply which produces a
revolving magnetic field which rotates at synchronous speed.

Figure 4: Revolving Magnetic Field

The rotor is excited by a DC power supply so it acts like a permanent magnet,

although rotor can also be made by permanent magnet.
Interaction with rotor and RMF is interesting, assume giving an initial rotation or the
rotor with the same direction of RMF the opposite poles of the rotor and RMF will
attract each other, and they will get locked magnetically (N→S, S→N) this means
the rotor will rotate at the same speed as the RMF (rotor will rotate at synchronous
speed.

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 Figure 5: Magnetic Lock

𝟏𝟐𝟎𝒇
Synchronous speed can easily be derived as 𝑵𝒔 = this means if one got control
𝒑
over the frequency of the electricity; the speed of the synchronous motor can be
controlled accurately.
But if the rotor didn’t get an initial rotation; the north pole of the rotor will be
attracted to the south pole of the RMF and will start to move in the same direction
with a very low starting speed but since it slow the south pole of the RMF will change
to north pole so I will give repulsive force making the rotor not able to start
(synchronous motors are not inherently self-starting).

To make a synchronous motor self-start; a squirrel cage is fitted through the pole tips
(also known as Damper Windings).

Figure 6: Squirrel Cage Induction Motor

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At the starting rotor field coils are not energized; RMF electricity is induced in the
squirrel cage bars and rotor starts rotating as an induction motor.
When the rotor achieves its maximum speed; the rotor field coils are energized so as
mentioned above the poles of the rotor and the RMF gets locked with each other
making it rotate at a synchronous speed.
When the rotor rotates at synchronous speed the relative motion between the RMF,
and the squirrel cage equals to zero; this means zero current and force on squirrel
cage bars (it won’t affect synchronized operation of the motor).
The synchronous motor will produce constant speed irrespective of the motor load,
only when the load is within the capability of the motor.
If the torque of the load is more than the torque of the motor, it will slip out of
synchronism and will come to rest.

Out of synchronism:
1. More overload.
2. Low supply voltage.
3. Low excitation voltage.

More about synchronous motors is it improvise in overall power factor of the system.

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Synchronous motors characteristics
Here are some characteristics of synchronous motors:
1. Synchronous Speed: The speed of a synchronous motor is determined by the
frequency of the AC power supply and the number of poles in the motor. The
formula to calculate synchronous speed (Ns) is Ns = (120 * Frequency) /
Number of Poles. Synchronous motors rotate at this synchronous speed when
properly synchronized with the supply frequency.
2. Steady Speed: Synchronous motors maintain a constant speed regardless of
the load applied to them. This contrasts with induction motors, whose speed
decreases with increasing load. The steady speed of a synchronous motor
makes it suitable for applications where precise speed control is required, such
as in industrial processes.
3. Synchronous Slip: Synchronous motors don't have slips, unlike induction
motors. Slip is the difference between the synchronous speed and the actual
operating speed of an induction motor. Since synchronous motors always
operate at their synchronous speed, their slip is zero.
4. Excitation: Synchronous motors require a separate DC excitation source
applied to the rotor (field winding) to establish a magnetic field. This
excitation creates the necessary magnetic field that interacts with the stator's
rotating magnetic field to produce motion. This excitation can be provided
through an external DC power source or from a self-excited arrangement.
5. Power Factor: Synchronous motors have a controllable power factor, which
is the ratio of real power (used for useful work) to apparent power (total power
drawn from the supply). By adjusting the excitation, the power factor of a
synchronous motor can be controlled and adjusted to be leading (overexcited)
or lagging (under excited) depending on the load and system requirements.
6. Efficiency: Synchronous motors tend to be more efficient than induction
motors, especially at higher loads and when power factor correction is
employed. Their efficiency can be further improved by optimizing their
design and excitation control.

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 7. Applications: Synchronous motors are commonly used in applications that
require constant speed operation, such as power generation, industrial
processes, synchronous clocks, and precision machinery.
8. Synchronization: Synchronous motors need to be synchronized with the AC
power supply before they start. This means they must match the frequency
and phase angle of the power supply to avoid torque fluctuations and potential
damage.
9. Starting Mechanism: Synchronous motors usually require external means to
bring them up to synchronous speed before they can engage the AC power
supply. This is typically achieved using auxiliary starting methods such as a
pony motor or a synchronous condenser.
10.Complexity and Cost: Synchronous motors are generally more complex and
costly to manufacture and operate compared to induction motors. The need
for separate excitation and synchronization mechanisms adds to their
complexity.

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Types of synchronous motors

synchronous motors are part of the AC motors, and it has three famous types of
synchronous motors:
1. Permanent magnetic synchronous motor (PMSM): it is a synchronous electric
motor whose inductor consists of permanent magnets.
permanent magnet synchronous electric motors in comparison with other
electric motors have the best performance: power/volume, torque/inertia, etc.

Figure 7: Permanent magnetic synchronous motor (PMSM)

✓ Types of PMSM:

• Surface permanent magnetic synchronous motor (SPMSM)

Figure 8: SPMSM

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• Interior permanent magnetic synchronous motor (IPMSM)

Figure 9: IPMSM

2. Separately excited synchronous motor (SESM): it is a type of synchronous

motor with an independent DC power source for the rotor's field winding,
allowing for precise control of speed, torque, and other performance parameters.
Its advanced control capabilities make it well-suited for industrial applications
requiring high precision and stability.

Figure 10: Separately excited synchronous motor (SESM)

3. Reluctance motor: it is a type of electric motor that operates based on the

principle of reluctance torque. It's a synchronous motor where the rotor aligns
itself with the stator's magnetic field to achieve movement. Unlike traditional
electric motors that use electromagnetic attraction between poles, reluctance
motors rely on the tendency of magnetic materials to move towards regions of
higher magnetic flux density to reduce the reluctance of the magnetic path.

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Its distinctive characteristics offer both advantages and challenges:

✓ Advantages:
Simplicity, High Torque Density, Harsh Environments.

✓ Challenges:
Control Complexity, Limited Speed Range.

✓ Types of reluctance motor:

• Switched reluctance motor (SR-Motor): Switched reluctance motor is one kind

of stepper motor including some poles. The construction of this motor cost is less
as compared with an electric motor due to its simple structure. These motors are
mainly used where the rotor is kept inactive for long periods in explosive
environments like mining because it works without a mechanical commutator.
These motor phase windings are isolated electrically with each other and result
in higher fault tolerance as compared with AC induction motor driven by an
inverter.

Figure 11: 6/4 Switched reluctance motor (SRM)

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• Synchronous reluctance motor (Syn RM): These motors run precisely at
synchronous speed, and this can be achieved with the help of a three-phase stator
winding as well as a rotor to implement salient rotor poles & inner magnetic flux
walls. The rotor frequently executes a modified squirrel cage in the region of
salient poles, so that it helps from the effect of induction to turn into self-starting.
Once the motor activates, it is moved near to synchronous speeds through
induction, after that it locks into synchronization through the reluctance torque
which is generated from the barriers of rotor flux.

Figure 12: Synchronous reluctance motor (Syn RM)

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Industrial Application of synchronous motors

Synchronous motors are very rarely used below 40kW output because of the higher
cost compared to induction motors. In addition to the higher initial cost synchronous
motors need DC excitation source and starting and control devices are usually more
expensive.
However, for particular output range and speed, the high initial cost of synchronous
motor varnishes is economical compared to induction motor. Where applications
involve high kW output and low speed synchronous motors are economical
compared to induction motors.
The various classes of service for which synchronous motors are employed may
be classified as:
• Power factor correction
• Voltage regulation
• Constant speed constant load drives
Synchronous motors are normally used in applications in which a constant and
precise speed is required. Typical applications of these low power motors are
positioning machines. They are also used in robot actuators. Synchronous motors are
also used in ball mills, watches, record players, and turntables. They are also used as
servo motors and timing machines.
Such motors are available in a range from horseshoe size to industrial high-
performance size. Although they are used in industrial high-performance sizes, these
motors can perform two essential functions. One is as an efficient means of
converting alternating current energy into mechanical energy and the other is as a
power factor correction.

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Conclusion

In conclusion, synchronous motors offer benefits such as precise speed control, high
efficiency, and power factor correction capabilities, making them suitable for various
applications where these characteristics are essential. However, their complexity,
initial costs, and sensitivity to variations in frequency and load should be considered
when selecting them for a particular application.

Reference

[1] Markus Lindegger. Economic viability, applications and limits of efficient permanent magnet motors.-
Switzerland: Swiss Federal Office of Energy, 2009
[2] Electric Motor Drives and their Applications with Simulation Practices 1st Edition - May 3, 2022
[3] Electric Machinery Fundamentals, by Chapman
[4] Electric Machinery, by Fitzgerald, Kingsley and Umans
[5] Synchronous Motors and Generators - Industry Today - Leader in Manufacturing & Industry News
[6] Types of Synchronous Motor - The Engineering Knowledge
[7] Reluctance Motor : Construction, Working, Types and Its Applications (elprocus.com)
[8] Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motor (engineering-solutions.ru)
[9] Types of Synchronous Motors: A Full Description | Linquip
[10] Types of Synchronous Motor | Electrical4U
[11] Applications of Synchronous Motors - Inst Tools (instrumentationtools.com)
[12] Introduction to Synchronous Motor, Working, Types, Construction, Advantages & Applications - The
Engineering Knowledge
[13] What is a Synchronous Motor? - Definition, Construction, Working & its Features - Circuit Globe
[14] Synchronous motor - construction and working | electricaleasy.com
[15] WEG-the-abcs-of-synchronous-motors-usaem200syn42-brochure-english.pdf

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