Continued Development of Higher Energy Density, Higher Current Rated Homopolar Generators at CEM-UT
Abstract
The Center for Electromechanics at The University of Texas at Austin is continuing development of compact, high energy density homopolar generators for field-portable applications begun in 1979. In May 1982, the compact homopolar generator (HPG), which has a volumetric energy density of 17 MJ/m3), was assembled and successfully tested. Feasibility of the design depended on three novel features: inner brush mechanisms having small radial height; a means of removing one rotor half from the shaft and replacing it to permit assembly of the machine; and a magnetic shield for the rolling-element bearings. To facilitate the development of still more compact HPGs, design work was begun in June 1982 on the Compact HPG Systems Tester. Built to test the systems and components necessary for machines storing up to 60 MJ/m3, the Systems Tester is one-half of a full-size counterrotating HPG storing 2.5 MJ at 6900 rpm and generating 20 V. The Systems Tester, scheduled to be operational in June 1983, will incorporate face brushes and a stationary-shaft hydrostatic bearing. These experimental concepts allow changes in machine configuration in order to rotate a higher proportion of the magnetic circuit and to eliminate much of the stationary support structure. The Systems Tester will also provide an excellent test facility for future experiments on higher current density brushgear necessary for drawing higher currents from the reduced slip ring areas of smaller machines.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jun 01, 1983
- Accession Number
- ADA638403
Entities
People
- E. G. Estes
- W. A. Walls
Organizations
- University of Texas at Austin