Comparison of various methods of analysis and finite elements in 3-D magnetic field analysis

In order to evaluate the most suitable method of analysis (A- phi or T- Omega method) and finite element (nodal or edge element) for a given problem, the features of each method and element have been investigated. The accuracy, computer storage, and CPU time of each method and element are compared for a 3-D nonlinear magnetostatic model and a 3-D eddy current model. The flux and eddy current densities calculated are compared with those measured. It is shown that the accuracy and the CPU time of the edge element are better than those of the nodal element. The A- phi method is better than T- Omega method for nonlinear problems from the viewpoint of convergence characteristics of nonlinear iterations.