Influence factors to affect eddy current loss of damper winding in 24 MW bulb tubular turbine generator

Purpose The purpose of this study is to find out the influence degree of harmonic current on the generator operating parameters. In practical operation of the salient-pole synchronous generator, the heat generated by eddy current loss may lead to the breaking of damper winding, and the damper winding is a key component for ensuring the reliable operation of generators. Therefore, it is important to study the distribution characteristics and the influence factors of eddy current loss. Taking a 24-MW bulb tubular turbine generator as a reference, the influence factors that affect the eddy current loss of damper winding are analyzed. Design/methodology/approach A two-dimensional (2-D) electromagnetic field model of the generator is established, and the correctness of the model is verified by comparing simulation results and experiment data. The eddy current losses of damper winding in various conditions are calculated by using the finite element method. Findings It is identified that the cogging effect, pole shoe magnetic saturation degree, pole arc coefficient and armature reaction are the main factors that affect the eddy current loss of the generator rotor. When the generator is installed with magnetic slot wedges, the distribution characteristic of eddy current loss is obtained through the study of the eddy current density distributions in the damper bars. The variations of eddy current losses with time are gained when the generator has different permeability slot wedges, pole arc coefficients and pole shoe magnetic saturation degrees. Practical implications The study of this paper provides a theoretical reference for the design and optimization of bulb tubular turbine generator structure. Originality/value The research can help enhance the understanding of eddy current distribution characteristics and influence factors of eddy current loss in bulb tubular turbine generator.