Magnetic Circuit Analysis /Reduction in Eddy Current by Splitting Magnets

As a countermeasure to eddy current, it is effective to split magnets. We further investigated

split magnets. The eddy current loss was compared for a motor with magnets not split and with the
magnets split into 6 pieces as in Figure (a). There were four test materials: C1020 copper, A7075
aluminum, SUS304 stainless steel, and N36UH magnets. The test pieces were 50x50x10 mm, the
strength of the AC magnetic field was 12.3 kA/m (154 Oe) and the frequency was 2000 Hz.
Figure (b) shows the relationship of the eddy current loss with whether or not the magnets were
split. With copper and aluminum, which have comparatively weak resistance, the loss is larger when
the magnets are split. This is due to the surface effect of eddy current. When the test piece is
larger or the frequency is high, the eddy loss due to splitting increases.
Click the thumbnail for the large figure.

Figure (a) Magnets split into 6 and not

split

Figure (b) Comparison of eddy current

loss

Figure (c) shows the result of bringing the split test material in contact without insulation and
measuring the eddy current loss. A comparison was made with items completely insulated between
layers. It was found that splitting had an effect for all the materials, regardless of the insulation
between layers. When producing split magnets, there is no need for a process to completely
insulate between layers, for example with paint.
Click the thumbnail for the large figure.

Figure (c) Relationship of the eddy current loss with whether or not the magnets are split

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