Experimental characterization of a belt-driven multi-phase induction machine for 48 V automotive applications: Losses and temperatures assessments

This paper presents the simulation and experimental results of the tests conducted for losses and temperature assessments on a belt-driven starter generator designed for 48-V mini-hybrid powertrains. In particular, a double three-phase 10-kW induction machine has been selected as the suitable candidate for the application. This paper reports and discusses in detail the experimental calibration of the lumped-parameter steady-state thermal model, particularly concerning the heat transfer thermal parameters. The testing activity has been conducted on a water-cooled prototype. Therefore, the validated thermal model has been used to predict the thermal behavior of the prototype at different load conditions in accordance with the design specifications. In the final part of this paper, some considerations regarding the prototype packaging and the embedded power electronics thermal issues are also reported.