PI: Michael McHenry
Co-PI(s): Paul Ohodnicki
University: Carnegie Mellon University

Michael E. McHenry and Paul R. Ohodnicki propose work leveraging funding from Carpenter Technology, the National Energy Technology Lab, and Carnegie Mellon University to benchmark soft magnetic magnetic materials (SMMs) in rotating machinery with increased energy efficiency. Co- and FeNi-based metal amorphous nanocomposite (MANC) alloys are being studied with DOE SunLamp funding (CMU subcontractor to NETL). A CMU-led DOE Advanced Manufacturing Office (AMO) program targets Co- and FeNi-based MANCs for high-speed motors (HSMs). Frequency limitations with silicon-steels, Carpenter FeCo Hiperco, and other conventionally cast and rolled alloys, are typically less than 400 Hz. MANCs enable higher speed motors (magnetic switching frequencies) and higher power densities. Worldwide studies cite greater than 50% of the world’s power to pass through motors, making increased motor efficiency attractive for sustainable energy demands.

The project aims are:

  1. To use PITA funding for a CMU MSE grad student to benchmark MANCs against crystalline materials in finite element analysis (FEA) of motor designs
  2. To accept Carpenter support for a second CMU MSE grad student to explore MANC glass former modifications to improve mechanical properties and formability in shapes needed in novel motor designs
  3. To utilize year three SunLamp funding for CMU Ph.D. student Natan Aronhime to benchmark economics of Co-based vs. FeNi-based MANCs for which CMU has IP on both.

CMU will interact with Carpenter through Sam Kernion, Manager Alloy Design & R&D, and 2012 McHenry group Ph.D. Yuval Krimer, who will receive a 2018 CMU M.S. degree in MSE, will intern the summer of 2018 at Carpenter and, if accepted, return to complete a Ph.D. beginning Fall 2018. The second PITA-funded CMU student will be identified to begin in Fall 2018. CMU will interface with NETL through Paul Ohodnicki, staff scientist and CMU adjunct professor, a 2008 McHenry group Ph.D.