Image Source : chargedevs
Now, switched reluctance motors are making a comeback, mainly serving the electric vehicle revolution.
The two main reasons for this return are:
1. Cost
2. China
If you can make a motor without permanent magnets, you have found a pathway to incredible success. This is where the switched reluctance motor comes into play. All they need to make them is copper and steel which means lower costs.
Image Source: medium
The cost of steel is about 100 rupees per kilogram, the cost of copper is 800 rupees per kilogram, and the cost of magnets is 6,000 rupees per kilogram. Overall SRM is 30-40% cheaper than traditional engines.
Image Source : credendo
SRM exhibits nonlinear behavior so the engine parameters have to be monitored constantly – as shared by Bhaktha Keshavachar, founder and CEO of Chara Technologies of machine learning algorithms and their improved computing power – as shared by him to Quantum.
Electric vehicles require high-power motors and contain rare earth magnets that meet the requirements, which mean dependence on China. Also, electric vehicle motors generate more heat, which is a problem because demagnetization occurs above 150 degrees Celsius. SRM can withstand extreme temperatures.
Two UK-based companies, Turntide Technologies and Advanced Electric Machine, are launching SRM. Their technology will allow the use of aluminum which is cheaper instead of copper in the windings and have lot of benefits.
Image Source: fudzilla
Although SRMs are often used in conjunction with electric vehicles, they can effectively replace any engine. SRM will set off a new revolution in India, said Ravi Singh, a partner at Kalaari Capital, which invested in Chara.
By: Mitali P.
