Evolution of axial-field electrical machines

Abstract EN

This paper is a review of axial-field electrical machines, which were at the origin of the invention of electrical machines such as the famous Faraday’s disk.

The different configurations of the axial-field machines are presented along with their advantageous key steady state characteristics such as high efficiency and high power to weight ratio.

The differences between axial-field machines and conventional radial-field machines are discussed.

The disc-type axial-field electrical machines with permanent-magnet excitation seem to be among the best designs in terms of compactness, suitable shape, robustness, and electric characteristics.

Axial-field machines are expected to be used in a large number of applications in the future owing to their special features and distinct advantages compared to conventional radial-field machines.