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Technical Tuesday: Cooling Improvement DELTA-XE
The cooling loops of the Delta-XE are being improved. Over the past few weeks, the cooling of theĀ motorĀ controller has been revised. To convert from the direct current from the battery to the three-phase alternating currentĀ for the electromotor, a motor controller is used. The Delta-XE uses a CascadiaĀ PM150DZRĀ which requires active cooling.Ā ToĀ achieve the required flowrate, a separate cooling loop is used for theĀ motor controller. This loop contains a radiator, pump, flowrate sensor and the Cascadia itself.Ā
ThisĀ coolingĀ loopĀ has been revised, as the flowrate of the previous iteration was insufficient. To this end, the main focus of the improvement was on reducing frictional losses.Ā This is in part achieved by relocating the pump further forward.Ā In addition, the adapters used to switch between different diameters of tubing have been replaced by new, custom adapters. TheĀ main change for these adapters is the angle with which the fluid expands and contracts, known as the diffuser angle.Ā By allowing forĀ a lower diffuser angle, theĀ transition between the different diametersĀ is extended. As a result,Ā losses will be minimized.Ā
The pump and radiator have not changed in the redesign. With these changes implemented, the length of tubing was decreased. The flowrate hasĀ increased by 50% and it now meets the requirement of the Cascadia.Ā
The next step will be to examine the cooling of the electromotorĀ of the Delta-XEĀ to determine points of improvements.Ā The main refinement of this loop concerns the length of the tubing, which can be reduced.Ā
After this has been taken care of, the airflow around the bike will be examined.Ā The addition of ducting and vents might improve the flow of air through the radiators, which increases theĀ cooling. For the electronic components, such as the motor controller, more cooling results in improved performance.Ā The cooling loops of the Apex-RS will be improved in conjunction with the Delta-XE, such thatĀ the knowledge gained from working on one bike can be applied to the other.Ā
– Marc Shair Ali
Team Interview: Bram Harbers
Hello, my name is Bram Harbers. I am a chassis engineer at Electric Superbike Twente, where I focus on the mechanical and structural aspects of the motorcycles. As a mechanical engineering student, EST challenges me to apply my theoretical knowledge in a more practical sense. On top of that, it allows me to work on some really awesome technology and attend amazing events.
Are you passionate about motorcycles?
As someone who does not own a motorcycle license, racecars always felt a more natural evolution of the transportation I have used so many times already. However, after seeing real motorcycle racing in action, I saw the agility and speed these monstrous machines possess. The skill and bravery the drivers need to keep them just above the asphalt is something I really admire.
Do you believe in the superbikes you produce?
This is a very talented and passionate group of students who (most of the time) know what they are doing. I have the utmost confidence that we can create a ground-breaking product.
Do you think the chassis team has enough potential to reach the goal you have in mind?
The chassis team consists of a diverse group with very different skillsets. Therefore, there is all kinds of knowledge about all kinds of topics available within the group. Everyone within the group can specialize in their own field, while also learning new things from the others. I am confident the chassis team has what it takes to be successful.
What is the funniest encounter while being part of EST?
In an attempt to practice our presentation skills as a group, we all had to make a brief presentation about a randomly assigned topic. Since the preparation time was very short and the topics were all over the place, the presentations were interesting, to say the least. We all had a good laugh about it.
Do you prefer the Delta-XE or the Apex-RS?
Although the Apex-RS has been extremely important in laying the foundation for a superfast electric superbike, the Delta-XE takes it to a whole new level. While maintaining all that is good about the Apex, it improves on the power delivery systems, allowing for even more speed and power on track