Modelling framework for electromagnetic noise generation from traction motors

Abstract

Electromagnetic noise from traction motors is often the single most dominating noise source from trains at low train speeds. This electromagnetic noise is tonal and annoying for both passengers on the train and people near the track and on the platform. A thorough understanding of the cause and the prediction of the electromagnetic noise is needed to be able to design low noise components. This paper describes a real time multi-physics modelling framework for prediction of the audible electromagnetic noise generated by traction motors fed by power converters. The cause of the electromagnetic noise is influenced by several different domains. To be able to fully simulate the final acoustic sound, all these domains needs to be modelled and simulated together. Simulations of some relevant operational conditions for acoustic noise generation has been performed and discussed. Some of these results have been compared to real measurements from a converter fed traction motor.