Design and testing of PMSM for aerospace EMA applications

The more-electric aircraft initiative represents an important technology step-change for the aircraft industry. The reduction of both fuel consumption and environmental impact are leading to alternative solutions for actuating the flight control surfaces. The traditional hydraulic systems, are progressively being replaced with electrically powered actuators. In this scenario, electromechanical actuators are gaining an ever-increasing importance as enabling technology for next generation aircraft. This paper presents the design and testing of a permanent magnet synchronous motor driving a linear geared electromechanical actuator for commercial aircraft. The experimental results are discussed throughout the paper and compared to the finite element ones obtained at the design stage. Finally, the machine is integrated into the mechanical drivetrain and the electromechanical actuator performance is evaluated through experimental tests carried out on a purpose-built mechanical demonstrator for achieving a high technology readiness level.