Electrical Machines and Drives

The Electrical Machines and Drives research group develops and improves power electronics and motor drives.

3D drawing of an engine

We are particularly interested in alternative magnetic materials, including: 

  • soft composites - ideal for high-volume, low-cost applications, such as appliance motors
  • amorphous material - useful where efficiency is important, such as in pumps. 

Our Electrical Machines and Drives group aims to:

  • provide a wider range of electric motor design options, varying in cost and performance
  • assist with the development of more efficient machines for electric vehicles, including through novel efficiency-mapping techniques
  • reduce or eliminate the need for feedback devices in the motor-control loop to improve performance, reduce system cost and increase reliability.
  • Research impact

    Our research has had direct industry impact. This includes through, for example:

    • constructing various prototype machines using scalable manufacturing techniques, with the potential for commercialisation 
    • developing a range of sensorless motor-control software, applicable to variable-speed pump applications.
  • Consulting services

    We consult at all stages of machine and drive development—from design, analysis and prototyping, through to testing and implementation.

  • Our researchers

    We have expertise across a wide range of areas. Many of our researchers are available to assist with research project supervision for Master of Philosophy and Doctor of Philosophy students. 

    Research team Expertise
    Associate Professor Nesimi Ertugrul Electric machines and drives; Renewable energy/energy storage; Driverless systems
    Associate Professor Wen Soong Electric machines and drives; Renewable energy/energy storage

    Enquiries

    To enquire about consulting services or working with us on a research project, please contact Associate Professor Nesimi Ertugrul.

Higher degree by research opportunities

Higher degree by research opportunities

Be involved in engineering discovery, invention, and cutting-edge research through a higher degree by research. Join our Master of Philosophy or Doctor of Philosophy programs. 

HDR opportunities