Prediction and identification of the magnetic field close to electric machines

The magnetic field around an electric machine operating at full load is predicted numerically and identified experimentally. A precise model of a three-phase induction machine is constructed considering the machine geometry, the windings and the stator and rotor materials. The field distribution close to the machine is determined using the discrete element technique, and actual measurements are carried out for identification purposes. An approximate human model is constructed and the magnetic field inside the human body is computed for a distance of 1 and 5 m from the machine. The magnetic field density is determined at specific points, and the induced current densities are computed. (C) 1999 American Institute of Physics. [S0021-8979(99)22808-3].