Master thesis - Assess the feasibility of an alternative cooling system for a traction motor

Req ID:531830

At Alstom, we understand transport networks and what moves people. From high-speed trains, metros, monorails, and trams, to turnkey systems, services, infrastructure, signalling and digital mobility, we offer our diverse customers the broadest portfolio in the industry. Every day, more than 80 000 colleagues lead the way to greener and smarter mobility worldwide, connecting cities as we reduce carbon and replace cars.

We are looking for a Master thesis student to join our team in Västerås!

Topic proposed: Design and Analysis of a Traction Motor Utilizing Passive Cooling Solutions

Duration: 20 weeks, on-site

Background

As the railway industry continues to prioritize energy efficiency and sustainability, innovative cooling strategies for traction motors are becoming essential. Traditionally, active cooling systems have been employed to manage heat dissipation. However, this thesis will focus on exploring unconventional approaches by designing a traction motor that solely relies on passive cooling mechanisms. The aim is to minimize losses during operation, thus enhancing overall performance.

Problem description and goals

The objective of this thesis project is to investigate the feasibility of designing a traction motor with no active cooling, utilizing only passive cooling methods. The project will involve performing electromagnetic calculations to ensure the motor design achieves the torque requirements and minimal energy losses. Subsequently, thermal analyses will be conducted using both analytical methods and possibility finite element analysis tools. The project structure will include the following steps:

• Review current literature on passive cooling techniques for electric motors.
• Develop an initial motor design focusing on achieving the torque requirement and reducing electromagnetic losses.
• Conduct electromagnetic calculations to evaluate performance and identify inefficiencies.
• Perform thermal calculations using analytical models to assess the thermal performance of the design.
• If considered relevant, utilize finite element analysis tools to simulate thermal behavior and validate findings from analytical calculations.
• Summarize and analyze the results to provide insights into the viability of passive cooling solutions.
• Compile a detailed report on methodologies, findings, and recommendations for future work.

All about you

You should have a background in electrical engineering, with coursework in electrotechnics and electromagnetic analysis, along with strong analytical skills and familiarity with simulation tools.

Important to note

As a global business, we’re an equal-opportunity employer that celebrates diversity across the 63 countries we operate in. We’re committed to creating an inclusive workplace for everyone.

Things you’ll enjoy

Join us on a life-long transformative journey – the rail industry is here to stay, so you can grow and develop new skills and experiences throughout your career. You’ll also:

• Collaborate with transverse teams and helpful colleagues
• Contribute to innovative projects
• Benefit from our investment in your development

You don’t need to be a train enthusiast to thrive with us. We guarantee that when you step onto one of our trains with your friends or family, you’ll be proud. If you’re up for the challenge, we’d love to hear from you!