Switched Reluctance Motor Drives

Abstract

Switched reluctance motor (SRM) drives have received considerable attention in the ever-growing market of adjustable speed motor drives. As a singly excited synchronous machine, SRM generates its electromagnetic torque solely based on the principle of reluctance torque. This chapter explores the magnetic and power electronics fundamentals of the SRM drive. It presents detailed explanation of the torque generation process and optimal torque control in four quadrants. The chapter discusses development of speed controllers for SRM drives and loop torque and speed control routines in SRM drive. Proper synchronization of the stator excitation with the rotor position is a key step in development of the optimal control in SRM drives. Since magnetic characteristics of the SRM, such as phase inductance or phase flux linkage, portray a one-to-one correspondence with the rotor position, they may directly be used for control purposes.