Motor-CAD is a unique software package dedicated to the electromagnetic performance of motors and generators and the optimisation of their cooling. Developed more than 12 years ago, Motor-CAD is used by major motor manufacturers and universities worldwide. Motor-CAD provides the ability to quickly and easily perform electromagnetic and thermal performance tests on prototype designs. Accurate electromagnetic and thermal calculations can be done in seconds. The results are presented in an easy to understand form for analysis to allow design decisions to be taken in an efficient manner. The software has a carefully constructed user interface that makes for easy data input and interpretation of results. Many of the features that make Motor-CAD the perfect optimisation tool have been developed in close consultation with customers to meet the needs of the industry. This image shows the 3D view of the motor from within Motor-CAD. Motor-CAD Thermal The thermal model in Motor-CAD is based upon analytical lumped-circuit analysis making it extremely fast to calculate. This allows the user to perform 'what-if' calculations in real time. Alternative numerical methods typically require days or even weeks to model and several hours to calculate a solution. All the thermal resistances and capacitances in the Motor-CAD model are calculated automatically from geometric dimensions and material properties. The user does not need to be familiar with complex heat transfer phenomena such as dimensionless analysis correlations for convection. Motor-CAD automatically selects and solves the most appropriate formulation for a given surface and the cooling type selected. Motor-CAD features efficient, accurate and robust mathematical algorithms for forced and natural convection, liquid cooling, radiation and conduction. An extensive library of proven laminar and turbulent convection correlations are used to give accurate models for all internal and external surfaces. The airgap model includes laminar, vortex and turbulent convection. The software is used to optimise the cooling of a wide variety of motor types and cooling methods. The fast calculation speeds are huge benefit when modelling complex duty cycles, such as traction motor drive cycles, and applications such as elevator load cycles.