Electric motor technologies in aviation industry

Abstract

Electric motor technologies are increasingly finding their way into the aviation industries as a key factor for propulsion systems of fully electrified aircraft, and future generation aircrafts with improved flight performance. This thesis explores the latest achievements in high-speed motor technology, and their application in various areas of the aviation industry, with emphasis on efficiency, reliability and power density. As the global push for a more sustainable and greener aviation intensifies, electric propulsion systems utilizing high-speed motors are gaining momentum. The thesis examines induction motor and synchronous reluctance motor as alternative to permanent magnet motor in aviation industry.

A critical examination of the design challenges associated with high-speed operation such as torque at high rotational speeds, which is essential in maintaining required performance under extreme conditions is a vital aspect of this study. This thesis aims to provide an overview on the future outlook of the adoption of high-speed motors in the aviation industry, through a review of current research, and simulation of motor performance in aviation environment. This study concludes by stressing the unresolved challenges for widespread implementation, including safety consideration, regulatory barriers, and the need to further advance energy storage and distribution systems.