Electromagnetic sub-models for 3D edge-elements in transient non-linear simulation

Purpose Resolving eddy currents in three dimensions with finite elements, especially in geometrically complex structures, is very time consuming. Notable additional efforts will be required, if these eddy currents are influenced by magnetic fields arising from larger parts or range over widespread regions. The purpose of this article is to present a new sub-modelling simulation technique, based on the finite-element approach. This method offers remarkable advantages for solving this type of problems. Design/methodology/approach A novel sub-modeling technique is developed for the finite-element method addressing this problem by dividing the process into two steps: firstly, a simulation of a “source”-model is carried out providing magnetic field distributions within the entire domain neglecting local eddy current effects and without modeling it in full detailed geometry. A subsequent “sub”-model comprises only the region of interest in higher resolution and is solved while being constrained with boundary conditions derived from the previous source-model. An implementation in ANSYS Mechanical is carried out with the objective to validate finite-element simulation against measurement results. Findings The proposed simulation technique performs robustly and time efficiently. Applying this method to an end-region of a turbogenerator allows comparisons with test data of this region for validation purposes. The comparison between measured and simulated radial flux densities shows good correspondence. Originality/value This work is novel in many aspects: a new technique for three-dimensional (3D) finite-element method using edge-elements is introduced. To the best of the authors’ knowledge, for the first time, these 3D sub-models are compared against measurement results of an electric machine with net currents. Leveraged from this work, detailed analyses of eddy current phenomena under influences of external magnetic fields can be investigated in higher detail within shorter calculation times.