Influence of Eccentricity Faults on IPM Motor Equivalent Circuit Characteristics

Interior Permanent Magnet (IPM) machines are preferred in various modern applications due to their high efficiency, compact design, and reliability. They are especially favored in electric vehicle (EV) powertrains but also play a key role in hybrid vehicles, electric motorcycles, industrial automation systems, robotics, and home appliances such as air conditioners and washing machines. Eccentricity is a critical and challenging issue since it causes an unbalanced airgap magnetic flux and forces, eventually resulting in vibration, noise, and a higher likelihood of motor malfunction over time. This study investigates the effects of eccentricity faults on the motor’s magnetic flux density and corresponding equivalent circuit parameters through Finite Element Analysis (FEA). The results show that the two types of eccentricity, static and dynamic, produce noticeable variations in the airgap magnetic flux as well as in key equivalent circuit parameters. Specific equivalent circuit parameters are particularly sensitive to different eccentricity faults, making them key indicators for early fault detection.