Simulating Electric Refuse Collecting Vehicle Performance: Permanent Magnet Versus Switched Reluctance Traction Motor

Refuse collecting vehicles (RCVs) that use internal combustion engines (ICEs) have very poor mileage, mainly due to their tendency to idle for long periods and frequent number of stops. This type of drive cycle is better suited for electric RCVs (ERCVs) which consume much less energy during idle periods and are generally more efficient. ERCVs traditionally use traction motors that incorporate rare earth metals in their design. These permanent magnet motors (PMMs) have as draw-backs: high cost of magnet material, sensitivity to demagnetization and increased concern towards properly securing magnets in the rotor. Switched reluctance motors (SRMs) do not use magnets and thus do not suffer from these drawbacks. Their low-cost design and high durability offer an enticing possibility for an ERCV, which typically sees heavy use and requires significant maintenance. The ERCV is also potentially less affected by the SRM torque ripple. This paper examines substitution of a conventional PMM with an SRM in an ERCV. A model is created in MATLAB/Simulink to represent the ERCV and performance of the vehicle using both motors is analyzed. SRM thermal analysis during the drive cycle is also conducted using a Motor-CAD model previously designed to assess maximum operating temperatures.