09. Heat and Mass Transfer

The significant rise in carbon emissions has driven the push towards utilizing new and renewable energy sources, including the acceleration of the electric vehicle (EV) program. In EVs, the electric motor serves as the primary component that converts electrical energy into mechanical energy. However this conversion process can lead to increased motor temperature, potentially reducing performance and shortening the motor's lifespan. This study aims to investigate and test Rotating Heat Pipe (RHP) technology as a thermal management solution to prevent electric motor temperatures from exceeding 60 degrees Celcius. The heat pipe used in this study has a diameter of 10 mm, a length of 500 mm, and is made of copper. The working fluid utilized for this research is water, with varying filling ratios of 10%, 30%, and 50%. Temperature distribution along the RHP is measured and recorded using thermocouples connected to an acquisition module via slip rings. The heat pipe in a stationary condition with a 50% fill ratio indicated good performance, with a thermal resistance of 0.090 K/W. In low-speed rotation conditions at 150 rpm, as well as at higher speeds of 225 rpm and 300 rpm, the heat pipe showed thermal resistances of 0.774 K/W, 0.593 K/W, and 0.268 K/W, respectively. The findings suggest that RHP technology is effective in managing the thermal performance of electric motors, thereby enhancing their efficiency and lifespan, which is crucial for the advancement of EV technology and the reduction of carbon emissions.