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Much of the energy consumed by appliances flows into electric machines, especially electric motors.

Induction Motor Research
James L. Kirtley, Jr.

Induction machines are widely used in many applications. We seek to improve the efficiency of integral horsepower induction motors by replacing cast aluminum with cast copper. The electrical conductivity advantage of copper over aluminum could mean between one and three percentage points difference in such motors. Multipled by the enormous number of electric motors in operation, the energy savings are potentially significant. We are investigating the effect of high conductor to lamination contact on stray load and no-load losses, with the objective of being able to predict such losses, which in turn affect motor efficiency.

Fig. 1. Squirrel cage bars are shaped to tailor the operational characteristics and efficiency of induction motors.

Fig. 2. Microgrids is an organizational concept for electric power distribution that can improve reliability of supply and facilitate distributed and renewable generation