Double-Stator Motor Design

Double-Stator Motor Design


Program:
REACT
Award:
$2,848,278
Location:
Richardson, Texas
Status:
ALUMNI
Project Term:
06/07/2012 - 02/15/2015

Technology Description:

University of Texas at Dallas (UT Dallas) is developing a unique electric motor with the potential to efficiently power future classes of EVs and renewable power generators. Unlike many of today's best electric motors—which contain permanent magnets that use expensive, imported rare earths—UT Dallas' motor completely eliminates the use of rare earth materials. Additionally, the motor contains two stators. The stator is the stationary part of the motor that uses electromagnetism to help its rotor spin and generate power. The double-stator design has the potential to generate very high power densities at substantially lower cost than existing motors. In addition, this design can operate under higher temperatures and in more rugged environments. This project will focus on manufacturing and testing of a 100 kW motor with emphasis on low cost manufacturing for future use in EVs and renewable power generators.

Potential Impact:

If successful, the UT Dallas double-stator motor design would completely eliminate the use of rare-earth materials, leading to cheaper and more rugged EV motors.

Security:

The U.S. produces a small fraction globally of industrial rare earths. Developing alternatives to the use of rare earths has the potential to reduce our dependence on these materials and will have a positive impact on our national economic and energy security.

Environment:

The transportation and electric power sectors account for nearly 75% of U.S. greenhouse gas emissions each year. Cheaper motors will encourage the widespread use of EVs and wind power, significantly reducing emissions.

Economy:

The U.S. spends nearly $1 billion per day on imported petroleum. Improvements in motor technology will encourage broader use of EVs, reducing the economic impacts of oil price fluctuations.

Contact

ARPA-E Program Director:
Dr. Patrick McGrath
Project Contact:
Prof. Babak Fahimi
Press and General Inquiries Email:
ARPA-E-Comms@hq.doe.gov
Project Contact Email:
fahimi@utdallas.edu

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Release Date:
04/20/2011