Iron Loss (Core Loss) Analysis

Category: Electromagnetic Field Analysis | Integrated 2026-04-06
CAE visualization for core loss iron loss theory - technical simulation diagram
Iron Loss (Core Loss) Analysis

Iron Loss (Core Loss): Theoretical Foundations

Overview

๐Ÿง‘โ€๐ŸŽ“

Teacher! Today's topic is about iron loss (core loss) analysis, right? What is it about?


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Separate calculation of hysteresis loss, eddy current loss, and anomalous eddy current loss. Differences in iron loss characteristics depending on electrical steel sheet grade. Efficiency evaluation of transformers and reactors.




Governing Equations




$$ P_{core} = P_h + P_e + P_a $$
$$ P_h = k_h f B_m^\alpha $$



๐Ÿง‘โ€๐ŸŽ“

So, if you cut corners on the core loss part, you'll face trouble later. I'll keep that in mind!


Discretization Method

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How do you actually solve these equations on a computer?


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We use spatial discretization by the Finite Element Method (FEM). We assemble the element stiffness matrices and construct the global stiffness equation.


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We perform transformation to the weak form (variational form) and use formulation by the Galerkin method using test functions and shape functions. The choice of element type (low-order elements vs. higher-order elements, full integration vs. reduced integration) directly affects the trade-off between solution accuracy and computational cost.




Matrix Solution Algorithms

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What exactly are matrix solution algorithms?


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We solve the simultaneous equations using direct methods (LU decomposition, Cholesky decomposition) or iterative methods (CG method, GMRES method). For large-scale problems, preconditioned iterative methods are effective.



SolverClassificationMemory UsageApplicable Scale
LU decompositionDirect methodO(nยฒ)Small to medium scale
Cholesky decompositionDirect method (symmetric positive definite)O(nยฒ)Small to medium scale
PCG methodIterative methodO(n)Large scale
GMRES methodIterative methodO(nยทm)Large scale / Non-symmetric
AMG preconditionerPreprocessingO(n)Very large scale
๐Ÿง‘โ€๐ŸŽ“

So, if you cut corners on the finite element method part, you'll face trouble later. I'll keep that in mind!


Implementation in Commercial Tools

๐Ÿง‘โ€๐ŸŽ“

So, what software can be used for iron loss (core loss) analysis?


Tool NameDeveloper/CurrentMain File Format
JMAG-DesignerJSOL Corporation.jmag, .jproj
Ansys MaxwellAnsys Inc..aedt, .maxwell
COMSOL MultiphysicsCOMSOL AB.mph

Vendor History and Product Integration Background

๐Ÿง‘โ€๐ŸŽ“

Is the origin of each software quite dramatic?



JMAG-Designer

๐Ÿง‘โ€๐ŸŽ“

What exactly is JMAG?


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Developed by Japan's JSOL Corporation. An electromagnetic field analysis tool specialized for electrical equipment design.

Current affiliation: JSOL Corporation



Ansys Maxwell

๐Ÿง‘โ€๐ŸŽ“

Tell me about "Ansys Maxwell"!


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Ansoft Maxwell. Low-frequency electromagnetic field analysis. Integrated into Ansys in 2008.

Current affiliation: Ansys Inc.


๐Ÿง‘โ€๐ŸŽ“

After hearing this, I finally understand why the Japanese one is important!



COMSOL Multiphysics

๐Ÿง‘โ€๐ŸŽ“

Tell me about "COMSOL Multiphysics"!


๐ŸŽ“

Founded in Sweden in 1986. Started as FEMLAB with MATLAB integration, later renamed to COMSOL. Strong in multiphysics.

Current affiliation: COMSOL AB



File Formats and Interoperability

๐Ÿง‘โ€๐ŸŽ“

Are there any points to note when transferring data between different software?


FormatExtensionTypeOverview
STEP.stp/.stepNeutral CAD3D CAD data exchange format compliant with ISO 10303. Supports geometry + PMI.
IGES.igs/.igesNeutral CADEarly CAD data exchange standard. Has issues with surface data compatibility. Transition to STEP is progressing.
JT.jtLightweight 3DLightweight 3D format developed by Siemens. Standardized as ISO 14306.
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When converting models between different solvers, attention must be paid to the correspondence of element types, compatibility of material models, and differences in the representation of loads and boundary conditions. Particularly, higher-order elements and special elements (cohesive elements, user-defined elements, etc.) often cannot be directly converted between solvers.


๐Ÿง‘โ€๐ŸŽ“

I see... Formats seem simple at first glance, but they're actually quite profound.


Practical Considerations

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Are there any "field wisdom" things not found in textbooks?


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Verifying mesh convergence, validating the appropriateness of boundary conditions, and performing sensitivity analysis of material parameters are extremely important.


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  • Mesh dependency verification: Confirm convergence with at least 3 levels of mesh density.
  • Boundary condition validity: Setting physically meaningful constraint conditions.
  • Result verification: Comparison with theoretical solutions, experimental data, and known benchmark problems.


๐Ÿง‘โ€๐ŸŽ“

Wow, iron loss (core loss) analysis is really profound... But thanks to your explanation, I've been able to organize my thoughts a lot!


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