Double‐Sided Linear Induction Motor‐Based Propulsion System for Energy Application

Linear induction motors are in vogue these days. High‐speed electromagnetic propulsion powered by three‐phase pulsed power is increasingly sought in emerging industrial projects, such as hyperloop transportation, factory automation for heavy machinery and defence applications that require rapid acceleration of heavy masses, including launchers and electromagnetic aircraft launch systems (EMALS). These energy applications require ensuring reliable and error‐free operation under dynamic conditions. The Double‐Sided Linear Induction Motor (DSLIM), featuring a long primary and a short secondary that incorporates distributed winding, exhibits oscillatory behaviour in its dynamic thrust‐speed characteristics, as well as the occurrence of zero or negative thrust during acceleration, resulting in delayed movement progress of the mover. These effects can be mitigated by optimising the mover material and winding configuration. Case studies of 21‐m and 90‐m long‐primary DSLIMs, housing tooth windings with German silver as a conducting sheet, comprising the secondary mover, were conducted to accelerate a heavy mass to high speeds required for the above‐mentioned applications. A double‐layer DSLIM with a variable‐voltage–variable‐frequency supply is analysed, and prototype experimental results for a 1.5 m configuration are compared to a double‐layer three‐phase tooth winding with distributed winding.