Thermal Stress Analysis and Design of the Stator of a 300 MVA Superconducting Generator

This paper presents the results for an axisymmetric finite element analysis of the stator armature and flux shield of a 300 MVA superconducting generator subject to manufacturing and operational thermal events. These machines typically will have large air gap armatures, departing from conventional generator experience. The mechanical design of such an armature to withstand operational loads is a new area. Key stresses are determined in the structure, especially interlaminar tensile stresses in the insulating skins and conductors, and compressive and tensile stresses along the axes of the armature conductors. Recommendations are made for further investigations. This work was performed as part of a joint effort with the Electrtc Power Research Institute to design a 300 MVA superconducting generator.