Compression Band Shim Pack for Stator Core Vibration
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Generators face challenges in maintaining a stiff connection between the stator core and the annular frame due to operational vibrations, as existing methods struggle to provide a robust connection over the life of the device.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a compression band shim pack between stator core laminates, which includes a dovetail slot configured to couple with keybars and extends radially to cover the entire length of adjacent space blocks, providing axial compression and additional stiffness by radially compressing keybars within the compression band.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If rigid mounting of stator core to annular frame is used, then initial connection stiffness is achieved, but connection stiffness deteriorates over time due to operational vibrations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a compression band that can dynamically adjust and maintain compression force on the shim pack, allowing the connection to adapt to vibrational loads over time. The compression band applies continuous radial compression to counteract the loosening effect of vibrations, maintaining connection stiffness throughout the generator's operational life.
Solution Approach 2:
The shim pack is pre-installed between stator core laminates before final assembly, creating a pre-compressed state that anticipates vibrational loosening. This preliminary compression action prepares the connection to resist the expected operational vibrations, maintaining stiffness over time.
2Manufacturing precision
If tight tolerances are used for dovetail and slot machining, then precise location and initial stiffness are achieved, but manufacturing complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The shim pack acts as an intermediary element between the dovetail and slot connection. Instead of relying solely on tight machining tolerances for direct metal-to-metal contact, the shim pack mediates the connection, providing a compliant interface that compensates for tolerances while maintaining precise alignment and stiffness.
3Strength
If compression band is applied to radially compress keybars, then connection stiffness is improved, but additional components and assembly complexity are introduced
Solution Approach 1:
The compression band serves multiple functions simultaneously: it applies radial compression to the keybars, maintains the shim pack in compression, compensates for vibrational loosening, and provides a simple adjustable mechanism. This multi-functionality justifies the additional component by consolidating several protective and stiffening functions into a single element.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This solution effectively reduces vibrations and maintains connection stiffness between the stator core and the stator frame, enhancing the rigidity and operational stability of the generator over its lifespan.
Implementation Method 1
a compression band for radially compressing the keybars
Implementation Method 2
a compression band shim pack positioned between a pair of the plurality of laminates and axially adjacent to the compression band for axially compressing the plurality of laminates
Data Source
AI summary
A shim pack to reduce vibration of a stator core is disclosed. The stator core may include a plurality of laminates coupled to a dovetail of a keybar and separated by a space block. The shim pack may include an elongated body extending from a first end including a dovetail slot configured to couple to the dovetail of the keybar to a second end extending radially at least substantially an entire length of an adjacent space block. A stator and related generator including the shim pack may also be provided.