A Method for Reduction of Cogging Torque in PM Machines Using Stepped Magnets

The paper presents a general approach to minimization of the cogging torque in electrical machines using surface-mounted magnets with discrete skew angle. Two types of pole shapes, namely monotonic skewing as well as herringbone-shaped magnets are proposed for the purpose of reducing the cogging torque. The elaborated algorithm is validated against the 3D finite element model as well as experimental data obtained from physical model of the motor. The presented cost-effective method leads to a great reduction of cogging torque with only slight decrease of overall electromagnetic torque.