Study on motor insulation coils subjected to high frequency PWM pulses

The insulation system of medium voltage motors is traditionally designed for 50/60 Hz power frequency; however, in some applications to reduce the size of the motor, higher frequencies may be used. Moreover, because of application of motor speed drives, the insulation system is subjected to repetitive fast pulses such as PWM. These pulses produce elevated electrical and thermal stresses on the motor insulation that can eventually lead to premature insulation failure. In this study, the complete insulation system of 13.8 kV motor coils is evaluated through qualification and performance tests. The coils will be evaluated in an accelerated ageing under PWM pulse voltage. Hence the development of a PWM pulse generator is required. Diagnostic tests will be performed before and after the test and the results will be analyzed. The results of this work will be used to do remedies and design new insulation system to withstand abovementioned conditions.

Faculty Supervisor:

Sheshakemal Jayaram

Student:

Partner:

Discipline:

Engineering

Sector:

University:

University of Waterloo

Program:

Accelerate