Permanent magnet motors operating at high frequency for extended periods will incur high iron losses, leading to energy waste. To diminish the iron losses of motors at high frequencies, a new type of material has been invented. SMC insulator, which is a pre-mixed high-purity iron powder with an insulating layer and organic material formed using powder metallurgy techniques, has recently seen widespread use in electromagnetic devices.
SMC Insulator VS Conventional Silicon Steel Sheet
Compared to conventional silicon steel sheets, SMC insulators are directly shaped through molding without the need for additional processing, do not generate waste, possess higher resistivity, and are magnetically and thermally isotropic. Thanks to the insulating layer around the iron powder particles, the eddy current loss is minimal, significantly reducing the iron losses at high frequencies. The drawback of the SMC insulator is its low magnetic permeability, leading to a higher excitation current in the motor and lower efficiency when used in electro-excited motors. Hence, SMC insulators are better suited for use in permanent magnet motors.
Applicable Fields
Unlike silicon steel materials, the SMC insulator has high hysteresis loss and low eddy current loss. Therefore, it is more suitable for high-frequency applications and does not have an advantage in low-frequency applications. However, to maximize its benefits in the most appropriate scenarios, it is essential to study the loss characteristics of the SMC insulator. These theories and methodologies can further aid the commercial utilization of SMC insulators.
Future Research Directions
Previously, there hasn't been enough applied research on the characteristics of SMC insulators. Research in SMC plastic molding has mainly focused on creating motors with special magnetic circuit structures. There is still a lack of studies on the fundamental properties of the material to individually investigate its characteristics. Therefore, there remains considerable valuable research to be done on SMC insulators.
In conclusion, the SMC insulator is a new electromagnetic material that offers significant benefits in reducing high-frequency iron losses. Although its disadvantages such as low permeability and high hysteresis loss may restrict its use in some applications, its suitability for permanent magnet motors is promising. With further research on SMC insulators, they will contribute to the sustainable development of the motor industry and the broader industrial sector.