Generator Mounting Adaptor for Power Plant Retrofit
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Solution Overview
Problem
The challenge of structurally supporting new electrical generators in power plants is complicated by their smaller footprint compared to older generators, requiring costly and time-consuming rebuilding of foundational configurations due to mismatched footprints and increased power density.
Innovation Solution
The use of an adaptor system comprising a generator casing with rail structures, adaptor plates featuring rabbet features and bolt holes, and structural feet that can be aligned and bolted to existing rail structures and feet, allowing for efficient transfer and distribution of loads without modifying the generator frame.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If new generators with smaller footprint are installed in existing power plants, then power density and efficiency are improved, but structural compatibility with existing foundations deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
An adaptor plate serves as an intermediary component between the new generator's rail structures and the existing foundation's anchor bolts. The adaptor plate includes rabbet features that interface with the generator's rail structures and bolt holes that align with the existing foundation anchors, enabling structural compatibility without modifying the generator frame or foundation configuration.
2Adaptability or versatility
If existing foundation configurations are rebuilt to match new generator footprints, then structural compatibility is improved, but installation time and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The adaptor plate is designed and prepared in advance with pre-configured rabbet features and bolt hole patterns. This preliminary preparation allows the adaptor to be quickly installed during generator replacement, eliminating the need for time-consuming foundation rebuilding while ensuring structural compatibility from the outset.
3Power
If new generators with different footprint are installed, then power density is improved, but manufacturing complexity of mounting system increases
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting system is segmented into distinct components: the generator's existing rail structures, the intermediary adaptor plate, and the foundation's anchor bolts. This segmentation allows each component to maintain its original design and function while the adaptor plate provides the necessary interface, thereby reducing overall mounting system complexity despite footprint differences.
Data Source
AI summary
A generator system includes an electrical generator; a generator casing disposed around the electrical generator; at least one rail structure axially disposed on an outer surface of the generator casing; at least one adaptor plate coupled to the rail structure, the adaptor plate including a substantially rectangular shape. The adaptor plate includes: at least one rabbet feature; and a plurality of bolt holes disposed therethrough. The generator system includes at least one structural foot coupled to the adaptor plate.