Electric motors can be categorized into axial flux and radial flux types based on the direction of magnetic flux. Axial flux motors are characterized by magnetic flux flowing parallel to the axis of rotation. Interestingly, the world’s first motor, invented by Michael Faraday in 1821, was an axial flux motor. Known as Faraday’s motor, its further development was constrained by the material and technological limitations of the time. In contrast, the radial flux motor, invented by Thomas Davenport in 1834, gained traction due to its simpler design and became the standard for motor development.
Unlike radial flux motors, which feature a cylindrical design, axial flux motors adopt a flat, disc-shaped structure. This unique design provides higher torque density and efficiency in a compact and lightweight form, making axial flux motors particularly suited for applications such as electric vehicles, racing cars, electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft, electric aircraft, marine vessels, and robotics.
In the context of the magnet industry, axial flux motor rotor assemblies refer to the magnetic rotor components used in these motors. These assemblies typically consist of a flat rotor disc with strategically positioned permanent magnets, enabling efficient interaction with the electromagnetic fields generated by the stator.
Designed to handle high speeds, axial flux motor rotor assemblies deliver exceptional power-to-weight ratios, making them indispensable for high-performance, space- and weight-sensitive applications.
Beyond Magnets: Complete Axial Flux Motor Rotor Assemblies
While permanent magnets are a critical component of axial flux motor rotor assemblies, a complete rotor assembly involves much more than just magnets. It is the integration of multiple elements, designed and engineered with precision, that enables the rotor assembly to deliver exceptional performance in demanding applications. The foundation of the rotor assembly is the rotor disc, typically made from lightweight yet strong materials such as steel, aluminum, or engineering plastic reinforced with carbon fiber. These materials ensure structural integrity while minimizing weight, enabling the rotor to achieve high rotational speeds with minimal energy loss.
For basic applications, the rotor disc is often constructed from magnetic steel, with fan-shaped magnets glued to its surface to provide essential functionality. In high-speed motors, magnets are glued into grooves on the disc or designed with notches to be inserted into steel or aluminum discs, ensuring improved mechanical stability. These designs frequently incorporate magnet segmentation to reduce eddy current losses. Additionally, skewed magnets are sometimes used to minimize cogging torque, enhancing operational smoothness.
In more refined configurations, laminated magnets are embedded into rotor discs and wrapped in carbon fiber. This approach enhances mechanical integrity while significantly reducing weight, which is crucial for achieving higher efficiency and smoother operation in high-performance applications. SDM Magnetics not only provides laminated magnets to axial flux motor manufacturers but also specializes in producing complete axial flux motor rotor assemblies, delivering comprehensive solutions for advanced motor designs.
SDM Magnetics is one of the most integrative magnet manufacturers in China. Main products : Permanent magnet,Neodymium magnets,Motor stator and rotor, Sensor resolvert and magnetic assemblies.
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