Performance Characterization of an Electric Motor for Marine Propulsion

Abstract

Despite the incredible growth experienced by the electric car industry, marine electrification is still in its early stages. Boating unfortunately pollutes in a number of ways beyond greenhouse gas emissions, making the shift to clean energy alternatives instrumental in protecting the environment. Marine engines have a different set of performance requirements than automotive ones, namely the need for continuous power. As such, electric powertrains need to be developed and tested specific to boating. In this thesis I aim to characterize an electric powertrain through motor performance specifically for marine propulsion. I designed and built the high and low voltage electrical system, implemented a battery management system, as well as fabricated a motor mount to couple the powertrain to an eddy brake dynamometer. Despite testing limitations on the dynamometer, I was able to validate the design and demonstrate viability for a marine application.