Rotor Arrangement with Axial Spacer Elements for Cooling
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Solution Overview
Problem
The cooling efficiency of generators is compromised due to uneven axial distribution of radial flow velocity of the cooling medium, resulting from inverse proportionality between axial and radial flow velocities, leading to inadequate heat dissipation from copper losses.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating axially extending spacer elements between circumferentially adjacent magnetic elements in the rotor arrangement to influence and even out the axial flow velocity of the cooling gas, thereby achieving a more uniform radial flow distribution within radial channels.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Temperature
If cooling medium is blown from face sides into the air gap, then cooling of the generator is achieved, but uneven axial distribution of radial flow velocity occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The spacer elements are strategically positioned at specific locations between magnetic elements to create local modifications in the air gap geometry. This local intervention alters the flow characteristics specifically in regions where flow velocity needs to be increased, thereby achieving more uniform radial flow distribution without changing the overall cooling system design
Solution Approach 2:
The spacer elements act as intermediary structures between the magnetic elements and the cooling medium flow path. These spacers mediate the flow distribution by creating controlled obstructions that redirect and redistribute the cooling gas, ensuring more even radial flow velocity across different axial positions
2Speed
If axial flow velocity decreases from face sides to centre, then cooling medium circulates through the generator, but radial flow velocity in face side regions becomes lower
Solution Approach 1:
Spacer elements are positioned specifically in the central region of the generator where axial flow velocity is lowest. This local modification creates additional flow paths and reduces flow resistance in the low-velocity region, thereby increasing radial flow velocity where it was previously insufficient
Solution Approach 2:
The spacer elements extend in the axial dimension and create three-dimensional flow redistribution patterns. By introducing axial extensions between magnetic elements, the system transforms the two-dimensional flow problem into a three-dimensional flow control solution, enabling better distribution of cooling medium across both axial and radial dimensions
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 approach enhances the cooling efficiency of generators by ensuring a consistent axial flow profile, leading to a more even distribution of radial flow velocities and improved heat dissipation along the generator's axial length.
Implementation Method 1
the axial flow velocity of a respective gaseous cooling medium or cooling gas flowing in the air gap between the rotor and a respective stator
Implementation Method 2
The gaseous cooling medium circulates in axial direction, i.e. axially along the air gap, and in radial direction, i.e. through respective radial channels or ducts within the stator, through the electric machine
Data Source
AI summary
Rotor arrangement for a generator is disclosed. The rotor arrangement includes a rotor including a number of circumferentially adjacently disposed magnetic elements, at least one axially extending spacer element is disposed between at least two circumferentially adjacently disposed magnetic elements.