Axial Flux and Radial Flux technology, commonly used in direct-drive electric

generators and motors.

Permanent magnets generate a constant magnetic field, and thus generate a flux by design.

As a result, the power density and dynamic performance of PMSM machines is higher

compared to induction motors where this magnetic field must be "induced" via electrical current.

Permanent Magnet machines can be divided in two different construction topologies which are

shown in the picture below.

The Axial flux motors, also named as the disc-type motors.

AXIAL FLUX MOTORS RADIAL FLUX MOTORS

1.Flux is produced axially along the axis of the 1. Flux is produced radially along the axis of the
rotor ( i.e the magnetic field, or flux runs rotor ( i.e the magnetic field, or flux runs
axially with respect to the direction of the axially with respect to the direction of the
rotor shaft.) rotor shaft.)

2) Effective positioning of the stator and

windings, which is particularly difficult to

achieve in an axial concept. This is

mainly due to the magnetic forces of

attraction over longer distances, while

the air gap must be maintained at around

one millimeter.

3) Effective cooling of the windings,

which is a challenge since they are

located between the rotor disks.

4 ) A difficult process to manufacture the

axial flux machine stator, which is also

very challenging to automate.

5) Flux calculations are particularly

difficult to do. Solving these issues

requires a huge amount of FEM

simulation and engineering. Parameters

such as terminal voltage, iron losses,

eddy current losses in the permanent

magnets, copper losses, torque ripple

and cogging torque must be calculated

before you can even start building a

working prototype machine.

6) Higher torque due to a larger distance
between the magnetic field interaction

and the machine shaft/axis, with an equal

outside diameter of the machine.

Compare it to a lever: One can generate

more torque with a longer moment arm.

7) The flux paths are much shorter. As

a result, axial flux machines have fewer

magnetic losses and thus higher torque

and efficiency.

8) axial flux machines are much lighter and

more compact, for the same power and
torque.
9) Advantages:
- Wider radius/length ratio
- Planar and adjustable air gap
- Higher power density
- Ideal design availability because of smaller
volume and lower weight.
- Availability for higher frequency or lower
speeds

10). Disadvantages:
- strong axial magnetic attraction force
between the stator and rotor;
- fabrication difficulties
- difficulties in mounting the machine and
keeping the stationary air gap
- manufacturing time is longer
- High costs in manufacturing because of
longer time
 - Main drawback of axial flux machines are In RF type motors there is only one air gap
presence of two air gaps.

RADIAL FLUX MOTORS

1. Generally, most PM motors are of the radial-flux type. The reason for this is that fabrication is
straightforward and established, using slotted stators with standard round radial laminations, and the
electrical loading can be maximized because of the use of the slots.

2. The first type is a radial flux

motor in which the magnetic flux field in the air gap between
the rotating permanent magnets and the stationary electro
magnets is produced in a radial direction from the center of
the motor to the outside thereof, and vice versa

( for axial The second

type is an axial flux motor in which the magnetic flux field
in
the air gap between the rotating permanent magnets and the
stationary electromagnets is produced in an axial direction
parallel to the axis of rotation of the rotor.)
3. radial flux motors have a mechanical advantage in that the
attractive and repulsive forces between the permanent magnets
and electromagnets are carried by the rotor and stator flux
rings in tension or compression, while those forces are
carried in axial fluxmotors by the rotor and stator plates in
bending, thus requir
ing a heavier structure and heavier bearings.