Effect of sub-micron deformations at opposing strain rates on the micromagnetic behaviour of non-oriented electrical steel
Year: 2024
Type: article
Abstract: We are entering an era of re-electrification, seeking high-power density electrical machines with minimal resource use. Significant performance gains in electrical machines have been achieved through precise manufacturing processes, including the shaping/cutting of soft magnetic materials. However, most studies have evaluated magnetic performance at a macro level, focusing on components, while the fundamental mechanisms, e.g., how the micromagnetic behaviour is affected by mechanical interference, remain unclear. In this study, we examine the impact of sub-micron deformations at opposing strain rates (10−2 to 101 s−1) on the micromagnetic behaviour of soft magnetic non-oriented electrical steel. Using a diamond probe to indent within a single grain of polycrystalline material at different velocities, we induce quasi-static and dynamic mechanical loading. Our analysis, employing magnetic force microscopy, transmission Kikuchi diffraction, and scanning transmission electron microscopy with a pixelated detector, reveals that magnetic texture disturbances rely on the time-dependent dislocation dynamics of the Fe-BCC material. Additionally, we compress micro-pillars to further investigate these effects under bulk-isolated deformation. These findings highlight the importance of considering even ultra-small loads, such as nano-indentations and micro-pillar compressions, in the manufacturing of next-generation electric machines, as they can affect magnetic texture and performance.
Source: Nature Communications
Institution: University of Nottingham
Language: English
Field: Materials Science
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $6,790
Awards: G2131171916, G2235261069, High resolution, cryogenic analytical and transfer scanning electron microscope (HR-CAT-SEM), G349319337, G4595814977, A New Correlative Approach for Structure Determination & Imaging of Molecular Materials, G519660675, DTP 2020-2021 University of Nottingham, G5701109433, G700078396
OpenAlex ID: W4403539772