Axial-flux permanent magnet machines inherently combine a good energy-efficiency with a high torque density. Axial-flux permanent magnet machines have a large diameter to axial length ratio and allow the construction of light-weight direct-drive machines for e-mobility and renewable energy conversion. Multiphysical analysis, including electromagnetic, thermal and mechanical aspects, has been carried out at EELAB. This extensive research has resulted in an integrated design which combines an excellent energy-efficiency and torque density with an optimal usage of materials.  Magnax now commercialises our software and the joint technology built up.

More information: https://www.ugent.be/m-f/en/research/eedtmp

Breakthrough technology for electric cars

Cars, trucks, motorcycles and even aeroplanes are increasingly switching to electric propulsion. This trend is known as electrification, and the motivation behind it is almost always the same: the
vehicle runs more quietly, requires less maintenance, performs better and makes more efficient and flexible use of energy sources. It is therefore not surprising that all players in the automotive market are currently looking for suitable electric machines to achieve this electrification.

For a long time, such machines operated according to a standard design, but Magnax, a spin-off from Ghent University, created a completely new machine that delivers more power and torque (the rotating working force of a motor, ed.) for the same weight. It took six years of research and development to create the highly efficient axial flux technology. As a result, the motors no longer need to be manually wound with coil wires, but can be done automatically. This was followed by another three years of prototyping and further development.
The result is motor technology that delivers three to four times more power density than traditional electric machines. This offers many advantages, ranging from reduced material use and iron loss to a more compact design. In other words, the production process becomes more efficient and cheaper. Magnax thus ensures better performance, more efficient use of energy sources, lower CO2 emissions and, therefore, a more sustainable world in no time at all.