Computation of Induced Eddy Currents in Axially Symmetric Geometries Using the Coupled Inductor Method

Abstract

The computation of eddy currents is essential in applications including induction heating, magnetic levitation, and non-destructive testing. Usually, the numerical solution of partial differential equations derived from Maxwell's equations is needed. However, the determination of boundary conditions required for solving these partial differential equations is not straightforward. This thesis presents a simple method called the coupled inductor method for computing eddy currents in axially symmetric geometries. The eddy current problem is reduced by the coupled inductor model to a transformer with many windings. A general framework capable of solving axially symmetric eddy current problems with multiple blocks of conductors and a coil has been developed. From this solution, quantities like heating, forces, and input impedance have been computed. Experimental verification of the solutions for selected eddy current problems is provided. An acceptable match, with less than 10% error, between the computational and experimental results was observed.