Oxidation Models of Rotor Bar and End Ring Segment to Simulate Induction Motor Faults in Progress

Abstract

Oxidation models of a rotor bar and end ring segment in an induction motor are presented to simulate the behavior of an induction machine working with oxidized rotor parts which are modeled as rotor faults in progress. The leakage inductanceand resistance of the rotor parts are different from normal values because of the oxidation process. The impedance variations modify the current density and magnetic flux which pass through the oxidized parts. Consequently, it causes the rotor asymmetry which induces abnormal harmonics in the stator current spectra of the faulty machine. The leakage inductances of the oxidation models are derived by the Ampere's law. Using the proposed oxidation models, the rotor bar and end ring faults in progress can be modeled and simulated with the motor current signature analysis (MCSA). In addition, the oxidation process of the rotor bar and end ring segment can motivate the rotor asymmetry, which is induced by electromagnetic imbalances, and it is one of the major motor faults. Results of simulations and experiments are compared to each other to verify the accuracy of the proposed models. Experiments are achieved using 3.7 kW, 3-phase, and squirrel cage induction motors with a motor drive inverter.