Operational Performance Analysis of the Cryogenic Electrical Machine for Submerged Liquefied Natural Gas Pumps

Abstract

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The electrical machine is one of the key components for submerged liquefied natural gas (LNG) pumps. This study deals with a cryogenic permanent magnet synchronous motor (CPMSM) for submerged LNG pumps. An 18.5-kW CPMSM prototype was developed according to the needs of users. The basic design of the CPMSM was proposed by using a cryogenic temperature (CT) design method. To analyze the operational performance accurately, simulation modeling and analysis are carried out, and a liquid nitrogen (−196°C) experimental platform is built. The test results verify the rationality of the design and the accuracy of the simulation. Based on the simulation and experimental data, the working characteristics and mechanical properties of the prototype in liquid nitrogen are analyzed. In addition, the performance of the prototype operating in liquid nitrogen (−196°C) and LNG (−161°C) are compared and analyzed, and the results show that the operating characteristics of the prototype in the two fluid environments are similar.

Keywords

• LNG pumps
• cryogenic motor
• finite element simulation
• liquid nitrogen test
• operational performance