PhD Studentship: Next-Generation Brushless Doubly Fed Generators: Electromagnetic Design and Optimisation

Primary Supervisor: Dr Malihe Heidary 

Brushless Doubly Fed Machines (BDFMs) offer a promising solution for offshore wind energy applications due to their brushless operation, reduced maintenance requirements, and ability to operate with partially rated power converters. However, their wider adoption is limited by challenges such as relatively low torque density, complex electromagnetic interactions, and undesirable harmonic effects. 

This PhD project aims to develop advanced mathematical and electromagnetic modelling approaches to support the design and optimisation of high-performance BDFMs for offshore wind energy applications. 

A key focus will be the development of an accurate and computationally efficient analytical or Magnetic Equivalent Circuit (MEC) model capable of representing the complex magnetic interactions between the stator windings and rotor. Particular attention will be given to capturing the effects of rotor geometry, winding configurations, magnetic harmonics, and potentially magnetic saturation on machine performance. 

The developed model will be validated against Finite Element Analysis (FEA) and used to investigate the influence of key design parameters on electromagnetic torque, torque ripple, and power factor. Building on these findings, optimisation techniques will be applied to identify improved machine configurations, aiming to enhance torque density and overall electromagnetic performance. 

The project will contribute to the development of efficient modelling and design tools for next-generation BDFMs, supporting their potential application in reliable and cost-effective offshore wind energy systems.

Entry Requirements: The minimum entry requirement is 2:1 in Electrical and Electronic Engineering.

Mode of Study: Full-time

Start date: 1 October 2027

Additional Funding Information

This PhD project is in a competition for a Faculty of Science funded studentship. Funding is available to UK applicants and comprises ‘home’ tuition fees and an annual stipend for 3 years. The current UEA / institutional PhD stipend rate is £21,805 and will be subject to any agreed inflationary uplift for 2027/28. 

Advert information