Physics / mechanism
Electric motors convert electrical energy to mechanical torque via electromagnetic induction or permanent-magnet interaction. Key topologies: induction motors (AC, squirrel-cage), brushless DC (BLDC), permanent magnet synchronous motors (PMSM), and switched reluctance motors (SRM). Performance is governed by torque density (Nm/kg), efficiency (peak >97% in SiC-driven PMSM systems), and thermal limits set by winding insulation class. Drives—the inverter + control stack—determine dynamic response; field-oriented control (FOC) and direct torque control (DTC) are standard. State of art: 10–20 kW/kg in aerospace-grade axial-flux motors; EV traction motors hit 96–98% peak efficiency with SiC MOSFET inverters at 800V bus.
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