Prediction of iron loss in magnetic laminations under PWM voltage supply

Purpose - The purpose of this paper is to discuss a new method of iron loss estimation under pulse width modulation (PWM) converter supply. The proposed method concerns the longitudinal magnetisation. Design/methodology/approach - A novel method of iron loss estimation applies values of iron losses that come from a single higher harmonic coexisting with a DC-bias field. This method considers non-linearity of ferromagnetic. Results of estimation are validated using experimental results. Findings - The paper formulates that the dependence of iron losses come from harmonics, on DC-bias field. Moreover, it formulates possibilities of their utilization to iron loss estimation in case of deformed flux. On the other hand, it discusses the influence of DC-bias field on static hysteresis and classical eddy current losses. Research limitations/implications - Experimental verification will still be needed as to the accuracy of the proposed model and applicability to various magnetic materials. Practical implications - The paper provides an easy mathematical method of iron loss estimation, under PWM voltage supply. Originality/value - The paper explains how to use an analytical method and results of iron losses come from single harmonics, obtained under coexistence with DC-bias field, to iron loss estimation in case of longitudinal magnetisation where deformed magnetic flux occurs.