POWERTRAIN
Building the future: axial flux motors, perfectly engineered for construction machines
the best 2D radial flux motors in the market. This efficiency leap is partly attributed to the grain- oriented electrical steel in axial flux machines, which facilitates the flux passage, enhancing the motor’s overall efficiency.
DISTINGUISHING FACTORS The axial flux technology presents two primary topologies: the dual- rotor single-stator (often referred to as torus-style machines) and the single-rotor dual-stator. While most permanent magnet motors adopt a radial flux topology, the dual-rotor axial flux motor offers a shorter and more efficient flux path. In this design, the flux loop starts at a magnet, passes axially through a stator tooth, and promptly reaches the next magnet. This shorter path results in a motor that is both smaller in size for equivalent power and boasts heightened power density and efficiency. Furthermore, the design intricacies
of axial flux motors stand out. Radial motors have historically used distributed windings, leading to inefficiencies as significant portions of the winding overhang the magnets. In contrast, axial flux machines have minimal coil overhangs, with
some designs using concentrated or segmented windings that are entirely active. This design nuance, particularly the winding configuration, is where suppliers distinctively mark their territory in the market.
POTENTIAL APPLICATIONS Electric vehicles (EVs) are an obvious beneficiary of axial flux motors. Given the motor’s compact and efficient design, EVs could see improvements in range and performance. But it doesn’t stop at cars. Urban mobility solutions, such as
electric buses and trams, benefit from axial flux motors to deliver robust acceleration even when laden with passengers. Off-highway vehicles and construction equipment, traditionally reliant on diesel engines, can benefit from the efficiencies and reduced operational costs of electrification and axial flux motors. Commercial marine applications also stand to benefit immensely from zero emissions propulsion leading to a reduction in water, air, and sound pollution that help preserve our oceans and wildlife – and the list goes on. With such diverse applications,
it’s clear that the axial flux motor’s influence extends well beyond traditional transportation, heralding
a new era of efficient and sustainable mobility solutions.
TOWARD A SUSTAINABLE FUTURE The transport sector has long been under scrutiny for its environmental impact. Here’s where axial rotor motors can make a difference. Beyond their efficiency, the very nature of their compact design means less material use during manufacture. This, coupled with the potential weight savings in vehicles, can lead to overall reduced resource consumption. As these motors possibly lead to better- performing EVs, they might just be the nudge some consumers need to make the switch, reducing the sector’s carbon footprint. With the myriad benefits and vast
application potentials they offer, axial flux motors are more than just an alternative in the transportation industry; they’re a future-forward solution. As the transport sector grapples with evolving demands and environmental imperatives, this technology promises a sustainable way forward.
Matrishvan Raval is Head of Product at Turntide Technologies.
www.turntide.com
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