Evolution of Multi-Phase Synchronous Reluctance Motors: A Comprehensive Review

Abstract

Synchronous reluctance motors (SynRMs) are electric motors that operate based on reluctance torque, where the rotor aligns with magnetic field produced by stator to minimize reluctance. Unlike conventional motors, SynRMs do not require permanent magnets or rotor windings, making them cost-effective and reliable. Recently, there has been increasing interest in multi-phase SynRMs, due to their enhanced performance characteristics, such as improved fault tolerance, efficiency, and torque control. This review paper provides a comprehensive analysis of multi-phase SynRMs, examining their evolution from three-phase to multi-phase designs and their applications in industries requiring high reliability and performance. The review highlights the advantages of multi-phase configurations in reducing torque ripple, enhancing fault resilience, and improving efficiency, making them well-suited for critical systems with demanding operational conditions. The paper discusses the evolution of three-phase SynRMs, followed by an exploration of five-phase and six-phase systems that offer further improvements in torque control and fault tolerance. Additionally, the review identifies current challenges and proposes future research directions for optimizing these motor designs for broader industrial applications.