Comprehensive experimental performance investigation of conducted electromagnetic interference in split-phase induction motors: Common-mode

Abstract

Motors in Adjustable Speed Drive (ASD) systems are the major sources of conducted Electromagnetic Interference (EMI), and they are mainly the Common-Mode (CM) currents and voltages. Compliance with Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC) standards is of utmost importance when maintaining system reliability in the face of ever-stricter Electromagnetic Compatibility standards in the industrial sectors. This work presents the first systematic experimental evaluation of CM impedance in Split Phase Induction Motors (SPIMs) in a wide frequency range (100 Hz to 100 MHz). Unlike prior studies that were limited to either a differential-mode analysis or limited frequencies in the experiment, the study provides comprehensive CM impedance data of two different SPIM setups, explaining resonance and anti-resonance behaviors that have direct implications on EMC performance. It is experimentally proven that high impedance designed motors significantly reduce CM current transfer, thus reducing EMI emissions and enhance EMC compliance. Particularly, the impedance peak of SPIM (I) was 8k at 100 MHz that translated to a 45% decrease in CM current and −15 dB attenuation of conducted EMI compared to SPIM (II). The resonance and anti-resonance frequencies determined the influence of motor architecture on its susceptibility to EMI. As a result, the findings provide prescriptive design information to the optimization of SPIMs in applications, for example, industrial automation and electric vehicle platforms, where very high EMI mitigation levels are of crucial importance.