Design of Synchronous Machines

Introduction
Synchronous machines are AC machines that have a field circuit supplied by an external DC
source. Synchronous machines are having two major parts namely stationary part stator and
a rotating field system called rotor.
In a synchronous generator, a DC current is applied to the rotor winding producing a rotor
magnetic field. The rotor is then driven by external means producing a rotating magnetic
field, which induces a 3-phase voltage within the stator winding.
Field windings are the windings producing the main magnetic field (rotor windings for
synchronous machines); armature windings are the windings where the main voltage is
induced (stator windings for synchronous machines).

Types of synchronous machines

1. Hydrogenerators : The generators which are driven by hydraulic turbines are called
hydrogenerators. These are run at lower speeds less than 1000 rpm.
2. Turbogenerators: These are the generators driven by steam turbines. These
generators are run at very high speed of 1500rpm or above.
3. Engine driven Generators: These are driven by IC engines. These are run at aspeed
less than 1500 rpm.
Hence the prime movers for the synchronous generators are Hydraulic turbines, Steam
turbines or IC engines.
Hydraulic Turbines: Pelton wheel Turbines: Water head 400 m and above
Francis turbines: Water heads up to 380 m
Keplan Turbines: Water heads up to 50 m
Steam turbines: The synchronous generators run by steam turbines are called
turbogenerators or turbo alternators. Steam turbines are to be run at very high speed to
get higher efficiency and hence these types of generators are run at higher speeds.
Diesel Engines: IC engines are used as prime movers for very small rated generators.

Construction of synchronous machines

1. Salient pole Machines: These type of machines have salient pole or projecting poles
with concentrated field windings. This type of construction is for the machines which
are driven by hydraulic turbines or Diesel engines.
2. Nonsalient pole or Cylindrical rotor or Round rotor Machines: These machines are
having cylindrical smooth rotor construction with distributed field winding in slots. This
type of rotor construction is employed for the machine driven by steam turbines.
1. Construction of Hydro-generators: These types of machines are constructed based on
the water head available and hence these machines are low speed machines. These
machines are constructed based on the mechanical consideration. For the given
frequency the low speed demands large number of poles and consequently large
1

diameter. The machine should be so connected such that it permits the machine to be
transported to the site. It is a normal to practice to design the rotor to withstand the
centrifugal force and stress produced at twice the normal operating speed.
Stator core:
The stator is the outer stationary part of the machine, which consists of

The outer cylindrical frame called yoke, which is made either of welded sheet steel,
cast iron.
The magnetic path, which comprises a set of slotted steel laminations called stator
core pressed into the cylindrical space inside the outer frame. The magnetic path is
laminated to reduce eddy currents, reducing losses and heating. CRGO laminations of
0.5 mm thickness are used to reduce the iron losses.

A set of insulated electrical windings are placed inside the slots of the laminated stator.
The cross-sectional area of these windings must be large enough for the power rating of
the machine. For a 3-phase generator, 3 sets of windings are required, one for each
phase connected in star. Fig. 1 shows one stator lamination of a synchronous generator.
In case of generators where the diameter is too large stator lamination can not be
punched in on circular piece. In such cases the laminations are punched in segments. A
number of segments are assembled together to form one circular laminations. All the
laminations are insulated from each other by a thin layer of varnish.
Details of construction of stator are shown in Figs 2 -

Fig. 1. Stator lamination

Fig 2. (a) Stator and (b) rotor of a salient pole alternator

Fig 3. (a) Stator of a salient pole alternator

3

Fig 4. Rotor of a salient pole alternator

(a )
(b)
Fig 5. (a) Pole body (b) Pole with field coils of a salient pole alternator

Fig 6. Slip ring and Brushes

Fig 7. Rotor of a Non salient pole alternator

Fig 8. Rotor of a Non salient pole alternator

Rotor of water wheel generator consists of salient poles. Poles are built with thin silicon steel
laminations of 0.5mm to 0.8 mm thickness to reduce eddy current laminations. The laminations are
clamped by heavy end plates and secured by studs or rivets. For low speed rotors poles have the bolted
on construction for the machines with little higher peripheral speed poles have dove tailed construction
as shown in Figs. Generally rectangular or round pole constructions are used for such type of
alternators. However the round poles have the advantages over rectangular poles.
Generators driven by water wheel turbines are of either horizontal or vertical shaft type. Generators
with fairly higher speeds are built with horizontal shaft and the generators with higher power ratings
and low speeds are built with vertical shaft design. Vertical shaft generators are of two types of
designs (i) Umbrella type where in the bearing is mounted below the rotor. (ii) Suspended type where
in the bearing is mounted above the rotor.

In case of turbo alternator the rotors are manufactured form solid steel forging. The rotor is slotted to
accommodate the field winding. Normally two third of the rotor periphery is slotted to accommodate
the winding and the remaining one third unslotted portion acts as the pole. Rectangular slots with
tapering teeth are milled in the rotor. Generally rectangular aluminum or copper strips are employed
for filed windings. The field windings and the overhangs of the field windings are secured in place by
steel retaining rings to protect against high centrifugal forces. Hard composition insulation materials
are used in the slots which can with stand high forces, stresses and temperatures. Perfect balancing of
the rotor is done for such type of rotors.
Damper windings are provided in the pole faces of salient pole alternators. Damper windings are
nothing but the copper or aluminum bars housed in the slots of the pole faces. The ends of the damper
bars are short circuited at the ends by short circuiting rings similar to end rings as in the case of
squirrel cage rotors. These damper windings are serving the function of providing mechanical balance;
provide damping effect, reduce the effect of over voltages and damp out hunting in case of alternators.
In case of synchronous motors they act as rotor bars and help in self starting of the motor.

Relative dimensions of Turbo and water wheel alternators:

Turbo alternators are normally designed with two poles with a speed of 3000 rpm for a 50 Hz
frequency. Hence peripheral speed is very high. As the diameter is proportional to the peripheral
speed, the diameter of the high speed machines has to be kept low. For a given volume of the machine
when the diameter is kept low the axial length of the machine increases. Hence a turbo alternator will
have small diameter and large axial length.
However in case of water wheel generators the speed will be low and hence number of poles required
will be large. This will indirectly increase the diameter of the machine. Hence for a given volume of
the machine the length of the machine reduces. Hence the water wheel generators will have large
diameter and small axial length in contrast to turbo alternators.
Introduction to Design
Synchronous machines are designed to obtain the following informations.
(i)
Main dimensions of the stator frame.
(ii)
Complete details of the stator windings.
(iii) Design details of the rotor and rotor winding.
(iv)
Performance details of the machine.
To proceed with the design and arrive at the design information the design engineer needs the
following information.
(i)
Specifications of the synchronous machine.
(ii)
Information regarding the choice of design parameters.
(iii) Knowledge on the availability of the materials.
(iv)
Limiting values of performance parameters.
(v)
Details of Design equations.
Specifications of the synchronous machine:
Important specifications required to initiate the design procedure are as follows:

Rated output of the machine in kVA or MVA, Rated voltage of the machine in kV, Speed, frequency,
type of the machine generator or motor, Type of rotor salient pole or non salient pole, connection of
stator winding, limit of temperature, details of prime mover etc.
Main Dimensions:
Internal diameter and gross length of the stator forms the main dimensions of the machine. In order to
obtain the main dimensions it is required to develop the relation between the output and the main
dimensions of the machine. This relation is known as the output equation.
Output Equation:
Output of the 3 phase synchronous generator is given by
Output of the machine Q = 3Vph Iph x 10-3 kVA
Assuming Induced emf Eph = Vph
Output of the machine Q = 3Eph Iph x 10-3 kVA
Induced emf Eph = 4.44 f TphKw
= 2.22 f ZphKw
Frequency of generated emf f = PNS/120 = Pns/2,
Air gap flux per pole = BavDL/p, and Specific electric loading q = 3Iph Zph/ D
Output of the machine Q = 3 x (2.22 x Pns/2 x BavDL/p x Zphx Kw) Iph x 10-3 kVA
Output Q = (1.11 x BavDL x ns x Kw ) (3 x IphZph ) x 10-3 kVA
Substituting the expressions for Specific electric loadings
Output Q = (1.11 x BavDL x ns x Kw ) (D q ) x 10-3 kVA
Q = (1.11 2 D2L Bav q Kw ns x 10-3) kVA
Q = (11 Bav q Kw x 10-3) D2L ns kVA
Therefore Output Q = Co D2Lns kVA
or D2L = Q/ Cons m3
where Co = (11 Bav q Kw x 10-3)
Vph = phase voltage ; Iph = phase current Eph = induced emf per phase

Zph = no of conductors/phase in stator

Tph = no of turns/phase
Ns = Synchronous speed in rpm
ns = synchronous speed in rps
p = no of poles,

q = Specific electric loading

= air gap flux/pole; Bav = Average flux density

kw = winding factor
From the output equation of the machine it can be seen that the volume of the machine is directly
proportional to the output of the machine and inversely proportional to the speed of the machine. The
machines having higher speed will have reduced size and cost. Larger values of specific loadings
smaller will be the size of the machine.
Choice of Specific loadings: From the output equation it is seen that choice of higher value of specific
magnetic and electric loading leads to reduced cost and size of the machine.
Specific magnetic loading: Following are the factors which influences the performance of the
machine.
(i)
Iron loss: A high value of flux density in the air gap leads to higher value of flux in the iron
parts of the machine which results in increased iron losses and reduced efficiency.
(ii)
Voltage: When the machine is designed for higher voltage space occupied by the insulation
becomes more thus making the teeth smaller and hence higher flux density in teeth and
core.
(iii) Transient short circuit current: A high value of gap density results in decrease in leakage
reactance and hence increased value of armature current under short circuit conditions.
(iv)
Stability: The maximum power output of a machine under steady state condition is
indirectly proportional to synchronous reactance. If higher value of flux density is used it
leads to smaller number of turns per phase in armature winding. This results in reduced
value of leakage reactance and hence increased value of power and hence increased steady
state stability.
(v)
Parallel operation: The satisfactory parallel operation of synchronous generators depends
on the synchronizing power. Higher the synchronizing power higher will be the ability of
the machine to operate in synchronism. The synchronizing power is inversely proportional
to the synchronous reactance and hence the machines designed with higher value air gap
flux density will have better ability to operate in parallel with other machines.
Specific Electric Loading: Following are the some of the factors which influence the choice of
specific electric loadings.
(i)
Copper loss: Higher the value of q larger will be the number of armature of conductors
which results in higher copper loss. This will result in higher temperature rise and reduction
in efficiency.

(ii)

Voltage: A higher value of q can be used for low voltage machines since the space required
for the insulation will be smaller.
(iii) Synchronous reactance: High value of q leads to higher value of leakage reactance and
armature reaction and hence higher value of synchronous reactance. Such machines will
have poor voltage regulation, lower value of current under short circuit condition and low
value of steady state stability limit and small value of synchronizing power.
(iv)
Stray load losses: With increase of q stray load losses will increase.
Values of specific magnetic and specific electric loading can be selected from Design Data Hand
Book for salient and nonsalient pole machines.
Separation of D and L: Inner diameter and gross length of the stator can be calculated from D2L
product obtained from the output equation. To separate suitable relations are assumed between D
and L depending upon the type of the generator.
Salient pole machines: In case of salient pole machines either round or rectangular pole
construction is employed. In these types of machines the diameter of the machine will be quite
larger than the axial length.
Round Poles: The ratio of pole arc to pole pitch may be assumed varying between 0.6 to 0.7 and
pole arc may be taken as approximately equal to axial length of the stator core. Hence
Axial length of the core/ pole pitch = L/p = 0.6 to 0.7
Rectangular poles: The ratio of axial length to pole pitch may be assumed varying between 0.8 to 3
and a suitable value may be assumed based on the design specifications.
Axial length of the core/ pole pitch = L/p = 0.8 to 3
Using the above relations D and L can be separated. However once these values are obtained
diameter of the machine must satisfy the limiting value of peripheral speed so that the rotor can
withstand centrifugal forces produced. Limiting values of peripheral speeds are as follows:
Bolted pole construction = 45 m/s
Dove tail pole construction = 75 m/s
Normal design = 30 m/s
Turbo alternators: These alternators will have larger speed of the order of 3000 rpm. Hence the
diameter of the machine will be smaller than the axial length. As such the diameter of the rotor is
limited from the consideration of permissible peripheral speed limit. Hence the internal diameter of
the stator is normally calculated based on peripheral speed. The peripheral speed in case of turbo
alternators is much higher than the salient pole machines. Peripheral speed for these alternators
must be below 175 m/s.

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Short Circuit Ratio:

Effect of SCR on Machine performance

1. Voltage regulation
2. Stability
3. Parallel operation
4. Short circuit Current
5. Cost and size of the machine

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3. Parallel operation:

SCR = 1/ Xs, as SCR Xs

IXs V Psync

5. Size and cost of the machine

as SCR Xs Zs Isc
and hence cost of control equipment reduces

For salient pole machines SCR value varies from 0.9 to 1.3
For turbo alternators SCR value varies from 0.7 to 1.1
Length of the air gap:
Length of the air gap is a very important parameter as it greatly affects the performance of the
machine. Air gap in synchronous machine affects the value of SCR and hence it influences many
other parameters. Hence, choice of air gap length is very critical in case of synchronous machines.
Following are the advantages and disadvantages of larger air gap.
Advantages:
(i)
Stability: Higher value of stability limit
(ii)
Regulation: Smaller value of inherent regulation
(iii) Synchronizing power: Higher value of synchronizing power
(iv)
Cooling: Better cooling
(v)
Noise: Reduction in noise
(vi)
Magnetic pull: Smaller value of unbalanced magnetic pull
Disadvantages:
(i)
Field mmf: Larger value of field mmf is required
(ii)
Size: Larger diameter and hence larger size
(iii) Magnetic leakage: Increased magnetic leakage
(iv)
Weight of copper: Higher weight of copper in the field winding
(v)
Cost: Increase over all cost.
Hence length of the air gap must be selected considering the above factors.
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Calculation of Length of air Gap: Length of the air gap is usually estimated based on the ampere
turns required for the air gap.
Armature ampere turns per pole required ATa = 1.35 Tphkw /p
Where Tph = Turns per phase, Iph = Phase current, kw = winding factor, p = pairs of poles
No load field ampere turns per pole ATfo = SCR x Armature ampere turns per pole
ATfo = SCR x ATa
Suitable value of SCR must be assumed.
Ampere turns required for the air gap will be approximately equal to 70 to 75 % of the no load
field ampere turns per pole.
ATg = (0.7 to 0.75) ATfo
Air gap ampere turns ATg = 796000 Bgkglg
Air gap coefficient or air gap contraction factor may be assumed varying from 1.12 to 1.18.
As a guide line, the approximate value of air gap length can be expressed in terms of pole pitch
For salient pole alternators: lg = (0.012 to 0.016) x pole pitch
For turbo alternators: lg = (0.02 to 0.026) x pole pitch
Synchronous machines are generally designed with larger air gap length compared to that of
Induction motors.
Design of stator winding:
Stator winding is made up of former wound coils of high conductivity copper of diamond shape.
These windings must be properly arranged such that the induced emf in all the phases of the coils
must have the same magnitude and frequency. These emfs must have same wave shape and be
displaced by 1200 to each other. Single or double layer windings may be used depending on the
requirement. The three phase windings of the synchronous machines are always connected in star
with neutral earthed. Star connection of windings eliminates the 3rd harmonics from the line emf.
Double layer winding: Stator windings of alternators are generally double layer lap windings either
integral slot or fractional slot windings. Full pitched or short chorded windings may be employed.
Following are the advantages and disadvantages of double layer windings.
Advantages:
(i)
Better waveform: by using short pitched coil
(ii)
Saving in copper: Length of the overhang is reduced by using short pitched coils
(iii) Lower cost of coils: saving in copper leads to reduction in cost
(iv)
Fractional slot windings: Only in double layer winding, leads to improvement in waveform
Disadvantages:
(i)
Difficulty in repair: difficult to repair lower layer coils
(ii)
Difficulty in inserting the last coil: Difficulty in inserting the last coil of the windings
(iii) Higher Insulation: More insulation is required for double layer winding
(iv)
Wider slot opening: increased air gap reluctance and noise

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Number of Slots:
The number of slots are to be properly selected because the number of slots affect the cost and
performance of the machine. There are no rules for selecting the number of slots. But looking into
the advantages and disadvantages of higher number of slots, suitable number of slots per pole per
phase is selected. However the following points are to be considered for the selection of number of
slots.
(a)
Advantages:
(i)
Reduced leakage reactance
(ii)
Better cooling
(iii) Decreased tooth ripples
Disadvantages:
(i)
Higher cost
(ii)
Teeth becomes mechanically weak
(iii) Higher flux density in teeth
(b) Slot loading must be less than 1500 ac/slot
(c) Slot pitch must be with in the following limitations
(i)
Low voltage machines 3.5 cm
(ii) Medium voltage machines up to 6kV 5.5 cm
(iv)
High voltage machines up to 15 kV 7.5 cm
Considering all the above points number of slots per pole phase for salient pole machines may be
taken as 3 to 4 and for turbo alternators it may be selected as much higher of the order of 7 to 9
slots per pole per phase In case of fractional slot windings number of slots per pole per phase may
be selected as fraction 3.5.
Turns per phase:
Turns per phase can be calculated from emf equation of the alternator.
Induced emf Eph = 4.44 f TphKw
Hence turns per phase Tph = Eph / 4.44 f Kw
Eph = induced emf per phase
Zph = no of conductors/phase in stator
Tph = no of turns/phase
kw = winding factor may assumed as 0.955
Conductor cross section: Area of cross section of stator conductors can be estimated from the stator
current per phase and suitably assumed value of current density for the stator windings.

14

Sectional area of the stator conductor as = Is / s where s is the current density in stator windings
Is is stator current per phase
A suitable value of current density has to be assumed considering the advantages and disadvantages.
Advantages of higher value of current density:
(i)
(ii)
(iii)

reduction in cross section

reduction in weight
reduction in cost

Disadvantages of higher value of current density

(i)
(ii)
(iii)
(iv)

increase in resistance
increase in cu loss
increase in temperature rise
reduction in efficiency

Hence higher value is assumed for low voltage machines and small machines. Usual value of
current density for stator windings is 3 to 5 amps/mm2.
Stator coils:
Two types of coils are employed in the stator windings of alternators. They are single turn bar coils
and multi turn coils. Comparisons of the two types of coils are as follows
(i)

Multi turn coil winding allows greater flexibility in the choice of number of slots than
single turn bar coils.
(ii)
Multi turn coils are former wound or machine wound where as the single turn coils are
hand made.
(iii) Bending of top coils is involved in multi turn coils where as such bends are not required in
single turn coils.
(iv)
Replacing of multi turn coils difficult compared to single turn coils.
(v)
Machine made multi turn coils are cheaper than hand made single turn coils.
(vi)
End connection of multi turn coils are easier than soldering of single turn coils.
(vii) Full transposition of the strands of the single turn coils are required to eliminate the eddy
current loss.
(viii) Each turn of the multi turn winding is to be properly insulated thus increasing the amount
of insulation and reducing the space available for the copper in the slot.
From the above discussion it can be concluded that multi turn coils are to be used to reduce the
cost of the machine. In case of large generators where the stator current exceeds 1500 amps single
turn coils are employed.

15

Single turn bar windings:

The cross section of the conductors is quite large because of larger current. Hence in order to
eliminate the eddy current loss in the conductors, stator conductors are to be stranded. Each slot of
the stator conductor consists of two stranded conductors as shown in Fig XXX. The dimensions of
individual strands are selected based on electrical considerations and the manufacturing
requirements. Normally the width of the strands is assumed between 4 mm to 7 mm. The depth of
the strands is limited based on the consideration of eddy current losses and hence it should not
exceed 3mm. The various strand of the bar are transposed in such a way as to minimize the
circulating current loss.

Fig XXX
Multi turn coils:
Multi turn coils are former wound. These coils are made up of insulated high conductivity copper
conductors. Mica paper tape insulations are provided for the portion of coils in the slot and
varnished mica tape or cotton tape insulation is provide on the over hang portion. The thickness of
insulation is decided based on the voltage rating of the machine. Multi turn coils are usually
arranged in double layer windings in slots as shown in Fig XXX.
Lip
Wedge
Top liner
Slot liner
Coil insulation
Coil separator
Cond. insulation
Conductor

Fig. XXX

16

Dimensions of stator slot:

Width of the slot = slot pitch tooth width
The flux density in the stator tooth should not exceed 1.8 to 2.0 Tesla. In salient pole alternators
internal diameter is quite large and hence the flux density along the depth of the tooth does not
vary appreciably. Hence width of the tooth may be estimated corresponding to the permissible flux
density at the middle section of the tooth. The flux density should not exceed 1.8 Tesla. However
in case of turbo alternators variation of flux density along the depth of the slot is appreciable and
hence the width of the tooth may be estimated corresponding to the flux density at the top section
of the tooth or the width of the tooth at the air gap. The flux density at this section should not
exceed 1.8 Tesla.
For salient pole alternator:
Flux density at the middle section =
Flux / pole /( width of the tooth at the middle section x iron length x number of teeth per pole arc)
Number of teeth per pole arc = pole arc/slot pitch
For turbo alternators:
Flux density at the top section =
Flux / pole /( width of the tooth at the top section x iron length x number of teeth per pole pitch)
As the 2/3rd pole pitch is slotted the number of teeth per pole pitch =
2/3 x pole pitch/( slot pitch at top section)
Slot width = slot pitch at the top section tooth width at the top section.
Once the width of the slot is estimated the insulation required width wise and the space available
for conductor width wise can be estimated.
Slot insulation width wise:
(i)
Conductor insulation
(ii)
Mica slot liner
(iii) Binding tape over the coil
(iv)
Tolerance or clearance
Space available for the conductor width wise = width of the slot insulation width wise
We have already calculated the area of cross section of the conductor. Using above data on space
available for the conductor width wise depth of the conductor can be estimated. Now the depth of
the slot may be estimated as follows.
Depth of the slot:
(i)
Space occupied by the conductor = depth of each conductor x no. of conductor per slot
(ii)
Conductor insulation
(iii) Mica slot liner
(iv)
Mica or bituminous layers to separate the insulated conductors
(v)
Coil separator between the layers
(vi)
Wedge
(vii) Lip
(viii) Tolerance or clearance

17

Mean length of the Turn:

The length of the mean turn depends on the following factors
(i)
Gross length of the stator core: Each turn consists of two times the gross length of stator
core.
(ii)
Pole pitch: The over hang portion of the coils depend upon the coil span which in turn
depends upon the pole pitch.
(iii) Voltage of the machine: The insulated conductor coming out of the stator slot should have
straight length beyond the stator core which depends upon the voltage rating of the
machine.
(iv)
Slot dimension: Length per turn depends on the average size of the slot.
Hence mean length of the turn in double layer windings of synchronous machines is estimated as
follows.
lmt = 2l + 2.5 p+ 5 kV + 15 cm
Numerical Problems:

Ex. 1 Design the stator frame of a 500 kVA, 6.6 kV, 50 Hz, 3 phase, 12 pole, star connected salient
pole alternator, giving the following informations.
(i)
Internal diameter and gross length of the frame
(ii)
Number of stator conductors
(iii) Number of stator slots and conductors per slot
Specific magnetic and electric loadings may be assumed as 0.56 Tesla and 26000 Ac/m respectively.
Peripheral speed must be less than 40 m/s and slot must be less than 1200.
Soln:
(i)
Diameter and gross length of stator:
Assuming the winding to be full pitched Kw = 0.955
Output coefficient Co = 11 x Bav q Kw x 10-3
= 11 x 0.56 x 26000 x 0.955 x 10-3
= 153
Speed in rps ns = 2f/p = 2 x 50/12
= 8.33 rps
2
Output Q = C0 D Lns =
D2L = Q / C0 ns = 500/( 153 x 8.33)
= 0.392 m3
Using round poles for the salient pole alternator and assuming ratio of pole arc to pole pitch as
0.65 and pole arc equal to core length
Pole arc/ pole pitch = core length/ pole pitch = 0.65
L = D/p = D/12

18

L = 0.17D
Substituting this relation in D2L product and solving for D and L
D = 1.32 m and L = 0.225 m.
Peripheral speed = Dns m/s
= x 1.32 x 8.33
= 34.6 m/s (with in limitations)
(ii)

Number of stator conductors

Eph = 6600/3 = 3810 volts
Air gap flux per pole = Bav x DL/p
= 0.56 x x 1.32 x 0.225/12
= 0.0436 wb

We have Eph = 4.44f Tph Kw

Hence

Tph = 3810/ ( 4.44 x 50 x 0.955 x 0.0436)

= 412
Total number of stator conductors/phase = 412 x 2 =824 conductors
Total number of conductors = 412 x 6 = 2472

(iii) Number of stator slots and conductors per slot

Considering the guide lines for selection of number of slots
Selecting the number of slots/pole/phase = 3
Total number of slots = 3 x 12 x 3 =108
Slot pitch = D/S
= x 132/ 108
= 2.84 cm (quite satisfactory)
Number of conductors per slot = 2472/108
24
Hence total number of conductors = 24 x 108 = 2592
Turns per phase = 2592/6 = 432
Slot loading:
Full load current = 500 x 103 / (3 x 6600)
= 43.7 amps
Slot loading = current per conductor x number of conductors/ slot

19

= 43.7 x 24
= 1048.8 ( satisfactory)
Ex. 2. A 3 phase 1800 kVA, 3.3 kV, 50 Hz, 250 rpm, salient pole alternator has the following design
data.
Stator bore diameter = 230 cm
Gross length of stator bore = 38 cm
Number of stator slots = 216
Number of conductors per slot = 4
Sectional area of stator conductor = 86 mm2
Using the above data, calculate
(i)
Flux per pole
(ii)
Flux density in the air gap
(iii) Current density
(iv)
Size of stator slot
Soln:
(i)

Flux per pole

Eph = 3300/3 = 1905 volts

Number of slots per phase 216/3 = 72
Number of conductors per slot = 4
Total number of conductors per phase = 72 x 4 = 288
Number of turns per phase Tph = 288/2 =144
We have from emf equation Eph = 4.44f Tph Kw
Assuming Kw =0.955
Flux per pole = Eph/ (4.44f Tph Kw)
= 1905/( 4.44 x 50 x 144 x 0.955)
= 0.0624 wb
(ii)

Flux density in the air gap

Air gap flux per pole = Bav x DL/p
D = 230 cm,
L = 38 cm,
Ns = 250 rpm
P = 24
Bav = / DL/p
= 0.0624 x 24 / ( x 2.3 x 0.38)
= 0.55 Tesla

(iii) Current density

20

Sectional area of the conductor = 86 mm2

Full load current of the machine = 1800 x 103 / (3x 3300)
= 314.9 amps
Hence Current density = 314.9/86
= 3.7 amp/mm2
(iv) Size of the stator slot
Before fixing up the width of the slot flux density in the middle section of the tooth has to be
assumed as 1.7 Tesla. Based on this flux density width of the slot at the middle section can be
found.
Flux per pole = 0.0624 wb
Gross length of the core = 38 cm
Assume
Number of ventilating duct = 4
Width of the ventilating duct = 1cm
Iron space factor =0.92
Net iron length of the core li =( L nd x wd)ki
= ( 38 4 x 1) 0.92
= 31.28 cm
Pole pitch = D/p
= x 230/24
= 30.12 cm
Pole arc/ pole pitch = 0.65 ( Assumed)
Pole arc = 0.65 x pole pitch
= 0.65 x 30.12
= 19.6 cm
Number of stator teeth = 216
Slot pitch = D/s
= x 230/216
= 3.35 cm
Number of teeth per pole arc = pole arc/ slot pitch
= 19.6/3.35
=6
Flux density in stator teeth = flux per pole /( bt x li x number of teeth per pole arc)
bt = 0.0624/( 1.7 x 0.3128 x 6)
= 1.95 cm
Thus the width of the slot should not exceed = 3.35 1.95
= 1.4 cm
Slot insulation width wise:
(i) Conductor insulation
(ii) Micanite slot liner
(iii) Binding tape
(iv) tolerence

2 x 0.5
2 x 1.5
2 x 0.4

= 1.0 mm
= 3.0 mm
= 0.8 mm
= 1.2 mm

21

Total

= 6.0 mm

Maximum space available for the conductor width wise = width of the slot insulation width wise
= 1.4 0.6
= 0.8 cm
Area of cross section of the conductor = 86 mm2
Hence thickness of the conductor = 86/8 = 10.75 mm
Hence the dimension of the standard conductor selected = 7.8 mm x 11.0 mm
Hence the width of the conductor = 7.8 + 6.0 = 13.8 mm =1.38 cm
Arrangement of the conductor:
All the four conductors are arranged depth wise
Depth of the slot:
(i) Space occupied by the conductor
(ii) Conductor insulation
(iii) Micanite slot liner
(iv)Bituminous insulation between the
insulated conductors
(v)Binding tape on the conductors
(vi) Lip
(vii) Wedge
(viii) Tolerance

4 x 11
4 x 2 x 0.5
2 x 1.5

= 44.0 mm
= 4.0 mm
= 3.0 mm

(4-1) x 0.2
2 x 0.4

= 0.6 mm
= 0.8 mm
= 1.5 mm
= 3.5 mm
= 1.6 mm

Total

59 mm

Size of the slot = 1.38 cm x 5.9 cm

Ex.3. A water wheel generator with power output of 4750 kVA, 13.8 kV, 50 Hz, 1000 rpm,
working at a pf of 0.8 has a stator bore and gross core length of 112 cm and 98 cm respectively.
Determine the loading constants for this machine.
Using the design constants obtained from the above machine determine the main dimensions of
the water wheel generator with 6250 kVA, 13.8 kV, 50 Hz, 750 rpm operating at a power factor of
0.85. Also determine (i) Details of stator winding (ii) Size of the stator slot, (iii) Copper losses in
the stator winding.
For 4750 kVA Generator:
D = 112 cm
L = 98 cm
Ns = 1000 rpm
Ns = 1000/60 = 16.67 rps
kVA out put Q = C0 D2Lns
C0 = Q / D2Lns
= 4750 / [(1.12)2 x 0.98 x 16.67]

22

= 232
Output coefficient Co = 11 x Bav q Kw x 10-3
Hence Bav x q = Co / (11 x Kw x 10-3)
= 232 / (11 x 0.955 x 10-3)
= 22200
Assuming the flux density of 0.6 Tesla
Hence q = 22200/0.6 = 37000 Ac/m
Main Dimensions of the second machine:
kVA out put Q = C0 D2Lns
C0 = 232
Q = 6250 kVA
Ns = 750 rpm
Ns = 750/60 = 12.5 rps
D2L = Q / C0 ns
= 6250 / 232 x 12.5
= 2.16 m3
For the first machine pole pitch p = D/p
= x 112/6
= 58.6 cm
Core length / pole pitch = gross length/ pole pitch
= 98/58.6
= 1.67
No. of poles for the second machine p = 120f/Ns= 120 x 50 / 750 = 8
Assuming the same ratio of gross length to pole pitch for the second machine as that of first
machine
L / D/p = 1.67
L = 1.67 x D/8
= 0.655 D
We have D2L = 2.16 m3
Substituting the value of L in D2L and solving for D & L
D = 149 cm and L = 97.5 cm
Peripheral speed for machine 1: DNs /60 = x 1.12 x 1000/60 = 58.5 m/s

23

Peripheral speed for machine 2: DNs /60 = x 1.49 x 750/60 = 58.5 m/s
As the peripheral speed is same for both the machines the diameter and length of the machine are
satisfactory.
Stator winding details:
Assuming star connection emf per phase Eph = 13.8/3 = 7960 volts
We have from emf equation Eph = 4.44f Tph Kw
Assuming Kw =0.955, f = 50 Hz
Air gap flux per pole = Bav x DL/p
Assuming the air gap flux density of machine 2 same as that of machine 1 Bav = 0.6 Tesla
Hence = Bav x DL/p = 0.6 x x 1.49 x 0.975/ 8 = 0.342 wb
Hence Tph = Eph/4.44f Kw
= 7960/ (4.44 x 50 x 0.342 x 0.955)
= 110
Total number of Conductors =110 x 6 = 660
Full load current per phase Iph = 6250 x 103 / 3 x 13.8 x 103
= 262 amps
Assuming number of slots per pole per phase = 4 1/2
Total number of slots = 4.5 x 8 x 3 = 108
Slot pitch = D/s = x 149/108 = 4.35 cm ( quite satisfactory)
Number of conductors per slot = 660/108 6
Total number of conductors revised = 108 x 6 = 648
Number of turns/phase = 108
Total slot loading = Iph x Cond/slot
= 262 x 6 = 1572 amp cond (quite satisfactory)
Dimension of the stator slot:
Full load current per phase Iph = 6250 x 103 / 3 x 13.8 x 103
= 262 amps
Assuming a current density of 4.2 amps/mm2
Area of cross section of the conductor = 262/4.2 = 62.4 mm2
Based on the allowable flux density, width of the stator tooth can be calculated and then the width
of the slot can be estimated.
Flux density in stator tooth Bt = / (Number of teeth/pole arc x width of the teeth x Iron length)

24

In a large salient pole alternator the flux density in the tooth along the depth of the tooth does not
vary appreciably. Thus the flux density at the top of the tooth may be assumed as 1.7 Tesla and the
width of the tooth is calculated at the top section.
Hence number of teeth per pole arc = pole arc/ slot pitch
Assuming pole arc/ pole pitch = 0.65
Pole arc = 0.65 x 58.6 = 38.1 cm
Thus the number of teeth per pole arc = 38.1/4.35 = 9
Net Iron length = (L ndwd) ki
Assuming 10 ventilating ducts of each 1 cm width and an iron space factor of 0.92
Li = (97.5 -10 x 1)0.92 = 80.5 cm = 0.805 m
Bt = / (Number of teeth/pole arc x x Li)
= 0.342/ ( 9 x bt x 0.805)
Assuming the flux density Bt as 1.7 Tesla
Hence width of the teeth = 2.78 cm
We have the slot pitch = 4.35 cm
Thus the slot pitch = 4.35 2.78 = 1.55 cm

Slot insulation width wise:

Slot insulation width wise:
(i) Conductor insulation
(ii) Micanite slot liner
(iii) Binding tape
(iv) tolerence

2 x 0.5
2 x 1.5
2 x 0.25

= 1.0 mm
= 3.0 mm
= 0.5 mm
= 1.0 mm

Total

= 5.5 mm

Insulation depth wise:

(i) Conductor insulation
(ii) Micanite slot liner
(iii)Bituminous insulation between the
insulated conductors
(iv) coil separator between layers
(iv)Binding tape on the conductors
(v) Lip
(vi) Wedge
(vii) Tolerance

6 x 2 x 0.5
2 x 1.5

= 6.0 mm
= 3.0 mm

(6-1) x 0.3

= 1.5 mm
= 0.4 mm
= 3.0 mm
= 1.0 mm
= 3.0 mm
= 1.6 mm

6 x 2 x 0.25

25

Total

19.5 mm

Maximum space available for the conductor width wise = width of the slot insulation width wise
= 1.55 0.55
= 1.0 cm
The area of cross section of the conductor = 62.4 mm2
Approximate depth of the conductor = 62.4/ 10 = 6.2 mm
Selecting the standard conductor of size 9 mm x 7 mm
Thus the area of the conductor = 63 mm2
Six conductors are arranged as 3 conductors depth wise in two layers.
Hence width of the slot = 9 mm + 5.5 mm = 14.5 mm = 1.45 cm
Depth of the slot = 6 x 7 + 19.5 mm = 61.5 mm =6.15 cm
Copper loss in stator winding
Approximate length of the mean turn = ( 2L + 2.5 p + 5 x kV + 15)
= ( 2 x 97.5 + 2.5 x 58.6 + 5 x 13.8 + 15)
= 426 cm
= 4.26 m
Resistance of the stator winding = x lmt x Tph /a
= 0.021 x 4.26 x 108 / 63
= 0.153 ohm
Total Copper losses = 3 I2R
= 3 x (262)2 x 0.153
= 31500 watts
Ex. 4. Two preliminary designs are made for a 3 phase alternator, the two designs differing only
in number and size of the slots and the dimensions of the stator conductors. The first design uses
two slots per pole per phase with 9 conductors per slot, each slot being 75 mm deep and 19 mm
wide, the mean width of the stator tooth is 25 mm. The thickness of slot insulation is 2 mm, all
other insulation may be neglected. The second design is to have 3 slots per pole per phase.
Retaining the same flux density in the teeth and current density in the stator conductors as in the
first design, calculate the dimensions of the stator slot for the second design. Total height of lip and
wedge may be assumed as 5 mm.
Slon.
First Design:
Slot per pole per phase q = 2
Total height of the conductor = 75 5 2 x 2 = 66 mm
Height of each conductor = 66/9 = 7.33 mm
Width of each conductor = 19 -2 x 2 = 15 mm
Area of each conductor = 7.33 xx 15 = 110 mm2

26

Slot pitch at mean diameter = slot width + tooth width = 19 + 25 = 44 mm

Second Design:
Slots per pole per phase = 3
Hence, the number of stator slots in this design are 3/2 times that in the first design.
Retaining the same flux density in the teeth and current density in the stator conductors
The number of conductors per slot in this design is 2/3 times that in the first design.
Number of conductors per slot = 2/3 x 9 = 6
Slot pitch at mean diameter = 2/3 x 44 = 29.3 mm
Tooth width at the same flux density = 2/3 x 25 = 16.7 mm
Hence slot width = 29.3 -16.7 = 12.6 mm
Width of each conductor = 12.6 2 x 2 = 8.6 mm
Height of each conductor = 110/8.6 = 12.8 mm
Total height of the conductor = 6 x 12.8 = 76.8 mm
Conductor dimensions 12.8 x 8.6 mm2
Depth of the slot = 76.8 + 5 + 2 x 2 = 85.8 mm
Slot dimensions = 85.8 x 12.6 mm2
Ex. 5. A 1000 kVA, 3300 volts, 50 Hz, 300 rpm, 3 phase alternator has 180 slots with 5 conductors
per slot. Single layer winding with full pitched coils is used. The winding is star connected with
one circuit per phase. Determine the specific electric and magnetic loading if the stator bore is 2
m and core length is 0.4 m. Using the same specific loadings determine the design details for a
1250 kVA, 3300 volts, 50 Hz, 250 rpm, 3 phase star connected alternator having 2 circuits per
phase. The machines have 600 phase spread.
Slon: Total stator conductors = 180 x 5 =900
Turns per phase = 900 / 6 = 150
Synchronous speed =300/60 =5 rps
Number of poles = 120f / Ns = 120 x 50/ 300 = 20
Slots per pole per phase = 180/(20 x 3) = 3
Distribution factor = (sin 60/2) / (3 sin 60/6) = 0.96
For Full pitched winding, pitch factor kp = 1
Winding factor = kp x kd = 0.96
Eph = 3300/3 =1910 volts
Flux per pole = 1910 / ( 4.44 x 50 x 150 x 0.96) = 59.8 mwb
Pole pitch = D/p = x 2 / 20 = 0.314 m
Area of one pole pitch Ap = pole pitch x core length = 0.314 x 0.4 = 125.6 x 10-3 m2
Specific magnetic loading = / Ap = 59.8 x 10-3 / 125.6 x 10-3 = 0.476 Tesla
Current per phase Iph = 1000 x 103 / ( 3 x 1910) = 175 amps
As there is one circuit per phase current per conductor = 175 amps
Specific electric loading = 3 Iph zph/ D = 6 Iph Tph/ D = 6 x 175 x 150/ ( x 2) = 25000 Ac/m
Peripheral speed = DNs/60 = x 2 x 300/60 = 31.4 m/s
1250 kVA generator
Synchronous speed = 250/60 = 4.167 rps
Number of poles = 120f / Ns = 120 x 50/ 250 = 24
Winding factor = 0.96
Output coefficient C0 = 11 Bav q Kw x 10-3 = 11 x 0.476 x 0.96 x 25000 x 10-3 = 126

27

D2L = Q/ C0 ns = 1250 / (126 x 4.167) = 2.39 m3

Keeping the peripheral speed same as that of the first machine
DNs/60 = x D x 250/60 = 31.4 m/s
Hence D = 2.4 m and L 0.414 m
Pole pitch = D/p = x 2.4 / 24 = 0.314 m
Flux per pole = Bav x DL/p = 0.476 x 0.314 x 0.414 = 0.062 wb
When there are more than one circuit per phase ( number of parallel paths = a)
Voltage per phase Eph = 4.44f Tph Kw / a; a = 2
Hence Tph = (2 x 1910) / ( 4.44 x 50 x 0.062 x 0.96) = 289
Total number of conductors = 6 Tph = 6 x 289 = 1734
Total number of slots = 3 x 24 x 3 = 216
Number of conductors per slot = 1734/216 8
Revised number of conductors = 8 x 216 = 1728
Revised number of turns per phase = 1728/ 6 = 288
Ex. 6. Determine the main dimensions of a 75 MVA, 13.8 kV, 50 Hz, 62.5 rpm, 3 phase star
connected alternator. Also find the number of stator slots, conductors per slot, conductor area
and work out the winding details. The peripheral speed should be less than 40 m/s. Assume
average gap density as 0.65 wb/m2, Specific electric loading as 40,000 AC/m and current density
as 4 amp/ mm2.
Slon:
Synchronous speed = 62.5/60 = 1.0417 rps
Number of poles = 120f / Ns = 120 x 50/ 62.5 = 96
Winding factor = 0.955
Output coefficient C0 = 11 Bav q Kw x 10-3 = 11 x 0.65 x 0.955 x 40000 x 10-3 = 273
D2L = Q/ C0 ns = 75000 / (273 x 1.0417) = 264 m3
Taking the peripheral speed as 40 m/s
Peripheral speed = DNs/60
Hence D = 40 x 60/ x 300 = 12.2 m and L = 1.77 m
Pole pitch = D/p = x 12.2 / 96 = 0.4 m
Flux per pole = Bav x DL/p = 0.65 x 0. 4 x 1.77 = 0.46 wb
Eph = 13800/3 = 7960 volts
Assuming one circuit per phase
Turns per phase Tph = Eph / 4.44f Kw = 7960 / ( 4.44 x 50 x 0.46 x 0.955) 82
As the terminal voltage of the machine is 13.8 kV slot pitch of about 5.5 cm should be used.
Hence the number of slots = D / s = x 12.2 x 100/5.5 = 696
Number of slots per pole per phase = S/ 3p = 696 / (3 x 96) = 2.42
The above fractional value of slots per pole per phase indicates that fractional slot winding is
used. Number of slots and turns per phase must be finalized such that they should not differ
significantly from the earlier calculated values.
It is also to be noted that for fractional slot winding double layer winding is a must and hence
conductors per slot must be an even.
Assuming number of slots per pole per phase as 2.5
Total number of slots = 2.25 x 3 x 96 = 648
Total number of conductors = 2 x 3 x Tph = 6 x 82 = 492
Hence number of conductors per slot = 492/648 = fraction

28

Hence a double layer winding is not possible with one circuit per phase. Hence the number of
circuits is to be selected in such a way that number of conductors per slot is even and the
winding becomes symmetrical.
Taking the number parallel circuits as a = 8
Turns per phase Tph = a x Eph / 4.44f Kw = 8 x 7960 / ( 4.44 x 50 x 0.46 x 0.955) 654
Hence total number of conductors = 2 x 3 x Tph = 6 x 654 = 3924
Number of conductors per slot = 3924/ 648 6
Hence the number of conductors = 6 x 648 = 3888
Hence turns per phase Tph = 3888/6 = 648
Current per phase = (75000 x 103) / ( 3 x 7960) = 3140 amps
Current in each conductor = Current per parallel path = 3140/8 = 392.5 amps
Area of cross section of each conductor = 392.5/4 = 98.125 mm2
Area of cross section of conductor being very large conductors are stranded and used.
Ex.7. Calculate the stator dimensions for 5000 kVA, 3 phase, 50 Hz, 2 pole alternator. Take mean
gap density of 0.5 wb/m2, specific electric loading of 25,000 ac/m, peripheral velocity must not
exceed 100 m/s. Air gap may be taken as 2.5 cm.
Soln: Output Q = Co D2Lns kVA
Co = 11 Bav q Kw x 10-3
Assuming Kw = 0.955
Co = 11 x 0.5 x 25000 x 0.955 x 10-3
= 130
Ns = 120f/p = 120 x 50/ 2 = 3000
ns = 3000/60 = 50 rps
D2L = Q/ Cons
= 5000/(130 x 50)
= 0.766 m3
Peripheral velocity = DrNs/60
= 100 m/s
Dr = 100/(50 x )
= 63.5 cm
D = Dr + 2lg
= 63.5 + 2 x 2.5
= 68.5 cm
L = 163 cm
Numerical Problems: Turbo alternators
Ex.1. Calculate the stator dimensions for 5000 kVA,
3 phase, 50 Hz, 2 pole alternator. Take mean gap density of 0.5 wb/m2, specific electric loading
of 25,000 ac/m, peripheral velocity must not exceed 100 m/s. Air gap may be taken as 2.5 cm.
Soln: Output Q = Co D2Lns kVA

29

Co = 11 Bav q Kw x 10-3
Assuming Kw = 0.955
Co = 11 x 0.5 x 25000 x 0.955 x 10-3
= 130
Ns = 120f/p = 120 x 50/ 2 = 3000 rpm
ns = 3000/60 = 50 rps
D2L = Q/ Cons
= 5000/(130 x 50)
= 0.766 m3
Peripheral velocity = DrNs/60
= 100 m/s
Dr = 100/(50 x )
= 63.5 cm
D = Dr + 2lg
= 63.5 + 2 x 2.5
= 68.5 cm
L = 163 cm
Ex.2. A 3000 rpm, 3 phase, 50 Hz, turbo alternator
Has a core length of 0.94 m. The average gap density
is 0.45 Tesla and the ampere conductors per m are 25000. The peripheral speed of the rotor is
100 m/s and the length of the air gap is 20mm. Find the kVA output of the machine when the
coils are (i) full pitched (ii) short chorded by 1/3rd pole pitch. The winding is infinitely
distributed with a phase spread of 600.
Soln:
Synchronous speed Ns = 3000 rpm
ns= 3000/60 = 50 rps
Peripheral speed np = DrNs/60
= 100 m/s
Hence diameter of the rotor Dr = 100 x 60 / ( x 3000)
= 0.637 m
Hence inner diameter of stator D = Dr + 2lg
= 0.637 + 2 0.02
= 0.677 m
(i) With infinite distribution and 600 phase spread the distribution factor may be given by where
is the phase spread
Kd = sin /2 / /2 = sin /6 / /6 = 0.955
With full pitched coils Kp = 1
Winding factor = Kp x Kd = 0.955
Output of the machine Q = C0 D2Lns
= 11 Bav q Kw x D2Lns x 10-3
= 11 x 0.45 x 25000 x 0.955 x 0.6672 x 0.94 x 50 x 10-3
= 2480 kVA

30

(ii) With chording of 1/3rd of pole pitch:

chording angle = 180/3 =600
Pitch factor = cos /2 = 0.866
Winding factor = Kp x Kd = 0.955 x 0.866 = 0.827
Output of the machine

Q = C0 D2Lns
= 11 Bav q Kw x D2Lns x 10-3
= 11 x 0.45 x 25000 x 0.827 x 0.6672 x 0.94 x 50 x 10-3
= 2147 kVA

Ex. 3. Estimate the stator dimensions, size and number

of conductors and number of slots of 15 MVA 11kV,
3 phase, 50 Hz, 2 pole turbo alternator with 600 phase spread.
Assume Specific electric loading = 36000 AC/m, specific magnetic loading = 0.55 Tesla,
Current density = 5 Amp/mm2 , peripheral speed = 160 m/s. The winding must be designed to
eliminate 5th harmonic.
Soln: Synchronous speed Ns = 120f/p = 120 x 50/ 2 = 3000 rpm
ns= 3000/60 = 50 rps
Peripheral speed np = DrNs/60
= 160 m/s
Hence diameter of the rotor Dr D
= 160 x 60 / ( x 3000)
=1m
With a phase spread of 600 distribution factor
Kd = sin /2 / /2 = sin /6 / /6 = 0.955
In order to eliminate 5th harmonic chording angle = 180/5= 360
Pitch factor Kp = cos /2 = 0.951
Winding factor = Kp x Kd = 0.955 x 0.951 = 0.908
Output coefficient C0 = 11 Bav q Kw x 10-3
= 11 x 0.55 x 36000x 0.908 x10-3
= 198
D2L
= Q / C0 ns
= 15 000/ (198 x 50) = 1.51 m3
We have D = 1 m and D2L =1.51 m3
Solving for L, L= 1.51 m
Flux per pole = Bav x DL/p
= 0.55 x x 1 x 1.51 / 2
= 1.3 wb
Eph
= 1100/3 =6360 volts
Hence Tph = Eph/4.44f Kw
= 6360 / ( 4.44 x 50 x 1.3 x 10-3 x 0.908)
= 24
Total number of conductors = 6 x 24
=144
For the turbo alternator selecting slots/pole/phase = 5

31

Total number of stator slots = 5 x 2 x 3 = 30

Conductors/slot = 144 /30 = 5
can not use double layer winding,
using two circuits per phase
conductors/slot = 10
Total conductors 10 x 30 = 300.

Design of the field System: Salient pole Alternator:

Dimension of the pole:
(i)
Axial Length of the pole: Axial length of the pole may be assumed 1 to 1.5 cm less than
that of the stator core.
(ii)
Width of the pole: Leakage factor for the pole is assumed varying between 1.1 to 1.15.
Thus the flux in the pole body = 1.1 to 1.15
Area of the pole = Flux in the pole body/ Flux density in the pole body.
Flux density in the pole body is assumed between 1.4 to 1.6 wb/m2.
Area of the pole = width of the pole x net axial length of the pole.
Net axial length of the pole = gross length x stacking factor
Stacking factor may be assumed as 0.93 to 0.95.
Hence width of the pole = Area of the pole / net axial length of the pole.
(iii) Height of the pole:
Height of the pole is decided based on the mmf to be provided on the pole by the field winding at full
load. Hence it is required to find out the mmf to be provided on the pole at full load before finding the
height of the pole. Full load field ampere turns required for the pole can be calculated based on the
armature ampere turns per pole.
Hence full load field ampere turns per pole can be assumed 1.7 to 2.0 times the armature ampere turns
per pole.
Armature ampere turns per pole ATa = 1.35 Iph Tph Kw /p
And
ATfl = (1.7 to 2.0) ATa
Height of the pole is calculated based on the height of the filed coil required and the
insulation.
Height of the filed coil:
If = current in the field coil
af = area of the field conductor
Tf = number of turns in the field coil
Rf = resistance of the field coil
lmt = length of the mean turn of the field coil

32

sf = copper space factor

hf = height of the field coil
df = depth of the field coil
pf = permissible loss per m2 of the cooling surface of the field coil
= specific resistance of copper
Watts radiated from the field coil = External surface in cm2 x watts/cm2
= External periphery of the field coil x Height of the field coil x watts/cm2
Total loss in the coil = (If2 x Rf) = ( If2 x x lmt x Tf / af)
Total copper area in the field coil = af x Tf = sf hf df
Hence af = sf df hf / Tf
Thus watts lost per coil = ( If2 x x lmt x Tf ) Tf / sf hf df
= (If Tf)2 x lmt/ sf hf df
Loss dissipated form the field coil = qf x cooling surface of the field coil
Normally inner and outer surface of the coils are effective in dissipating the heat. The heat
dissipated from the top and bottom surfaces are negligible.
Cooling surface of the field coil = 2 x lmt x hf
Hence loss dissipated from the field coil = 2 x lmt x hf x qf
For the temperature rise to be with in limitations
Watts lost per coil = watts radiated from the coil
(If Tf)2 x lmt/ sf hf df = 2 x lmt x hf x qf
Hence hf = (If Tf) / [ 104 x (sf df qf)]
= ATfl x 10-4/ (sf df qf)
Depth of the field coil is assumed from 3 to 5 cm,
Copper space factor may be assumed as 0.6 to 0.8,
Loss per m2 may be assumed as 700 to 750 w/m2
Hence the height of the pole = hf + height of the pole shoe + height taken by insulation

Design of field winding for salient pole Alternator:

Design of the field winding is to obtain the following information.
(i)
Cross sectional area of the conductor of field winding
(ii)
Current in field winding

33

(iii)
(iv)
(v)
(vi)

Number of turns in field winding

Arrangement of turns
Resistance of the field winding
Copper loss in the field winding

Above informations can be obtained following the following steps

(i)
Generally the exciter voltage will be in the range of 110 volts to 440 volts. 15-20 % of
voltage is kept as drop across the field controller.
Hence voltage per coil Vc = (0.8 to 0.85) exciter voltage / Number of field coils
(ii)
Assume suitable value for the depth of the field coil
(iii) Mean length of the turn in field coil is estimated from the dimensions of the pole and the
depth of the field windings. Mean length of the turn = 2( lp + bp) + (df + 2ti) where ti is
the thickness of insulation on the pole.
(iv)
Sectional area of the conductor can be calculated as follows
Resistance of the field coil Rf = x lmt x Tf / af = voltage across the coil/ field coil
Vc/ If = x lmt x Tf / af
Hence af = x lmt x If Tf / Vc
Field current can be estimated by assuming a suitable value of current density in the field
winding. Generally the value of current density may be taken as 3.5 to 4 amp/mm2.
Hence If = f x af
(vi)
Number of turns in the field winding Tf = Full load field ampere turns / field current
= ATfl/ If
(vii) Height of the field winding hf = ATfl x 10-4/ (sf df qf)
(viii) Resistance of the field winding Rf = x lmt x Tf / af
(ix)
Copper loss in the field winding = If2 x Rf
(v)

Numerical Problems on Field System Design of Salient pole machines:

Ex.1. The following information has been obtained during the preliminary design of a 3 phase 500
kVA, 6.6 kV, 12 pole, 500 rpm, star connected salient pole alternator.
Stator diameter = 1.3 m, gross length of stator = 0.21m, air gap flux per pole = 0.0404 wb
Based on the above information, design the field system of the alternator giving the following
details.
(i)
Length of the air gap
(ii)
Diameter of the rotor at the air gap surface
(iii) Dimension of the pole
Soln:
(i) Length of the air gap : Air gap flux per pole = Bav x DL/p
= (12 x 0.0404)/( x1.3 x 0.21)
= 0.56 Tesla
We have ATf0 = SCR x ATa and ATa=1. 35 Iph Tph Kw /p
We have Eph = 4.44 f Tph kw and

34

Hence Tph x Kw = Eph/(4.44f ) = 6600/3/ ( 4.44 x 50 x 0.0404) = 424

Full load current = 500 x 103/ 3 x 6600 = 43.7 amps
ATa=1. 35 Iph Tph Kw /p = 1.35 x 43.7 x 424 /6 = 4169 AT
Assuming a short circuit ratio of 1.1 ATf0 = SCR x ATa = 1.1 x 4169 = 4586 AT
Assuming AT required for the air gap as 70 % of the no load field ampere turns per pole
ATg = 0.7 x ATfo = 0.7 x 4586 = 3210 AT
Assuming Carters coefficient for the air gap kg as 1.15 and field form factor Kf as 0.7
Bg = Bav/Kf = 0.56/0.7 = 0.8 Tesla
We have air gap ampere turns ATg = 796000 Bg kg lg
Hence air gap length lg = 3210 / ( 796000 x 0.8 x 1.15) = 0.0044 m = 4.4 mm
(ii)
Diameter of the rotor Dr = D - 2 lg = 1.2 2 x 0.0044 = 1.191m
(iv)
Peripheral speed = DrNs / 60 = x 1.191 x 500/60 =31.2 m/s
(v)
Dimensions of the pole : Assuming the axial length as 1 cm less than that of the gross
length of the stator
(a) Axial length of the pole Lp= 0.21 0.01 = 0.2 m
(b) Width of the pole: Assuming the leakage factor for the pole as 1.15
Flux in the pole body p = 1.15 x 0.0404 = 0.0465 wb
Assuming flux density in the pole body as 1.5 Tesla
Area of the pole = 0.0465/1.5 = 0.031 m2
Assuming a stacking factor of 0.95
Width of the pole = area of the pole / stacking factor x Lp = 0.031/ (0.95 x 0.2) = 0.16 m
Height of the pole: Assuming ATfl = 1.8 x ATa = 1.8 x 4169 = 7504 AT
Assuming : Depth of the field coil = 4 cm
Space factor for the filed coil = 0.7
Permissible loss per unit area = 700 w/m2
Height of the filed coil
hf = (If Tf) / [ 104 x (sf df qf)]
= 7504 / [104 x (0.04 x 0.7 x 700)]
= 0.17 m
Hence the height of the pole = hf + height of the pole shoe + height taken by insulation
Assuming height of the pole shoe + height taken by insulation as 0.04 m
Height of the pole = 0.17 + 0.04 = 0.21 m
Ex.2. The field coils of a salient pole alternator are wound with a single layer winding of bare copper
strip 30 mm deep, with a separating insulation of 0.15 mm thick. Determine a suitable winding length,
number of turns and thickness of the conductor to develop an mmf of 12000 AT with a potential
difference of 5 volts per coil and with a loss of 1200 w/m2 of total coil surface. The mean length of the
turn is 1.2 m. The resistivity of copper is 0.021 /m and mm2.
Soln. Area of field conductor af = x x (If Tf ) / Vc
= 0.021 x 1.2 x 12000/ 5
= 60.4 mm2
Hence height of the conductor = 60.4/30 = 2 mm
Revised area of the conductor = 60 mm2
Total heat dissipating surface S = 2 x lmt (hf + df )
= 2 x 1.2 (hf + 0.03)
= 2.4 hf + 0.072 m2

35

Hence total loss dissipated Qf = 1200 (2.4 hf + 0.072) watts

= 2880 hf + 86.4 watts
Field current If = Qf/vc= (2880 hf + 86.4)/ 5 = 5.76 hf + 17.3
And If Tf = (5.76 hf + 17.3) Tf =12000
If Tf = 5.76 hf Tf + 17.3 Tf =12000
Height occupied by the conductor including insulation = 2 + 0.15 = 2.15 mm
Hence height of the field winding hf = Tf x 2.15 x 10-3
Substituting this value in the expression for If Tf we get
If Tf = 5.76 x Tf x 2.15 x 10-3 Tf + 17.3 Tf =12000
Solving for Tf, Tf = 91
Hence height of the field winding = 2.15 x 91 = 196 mm
Ex. 3 Design the field coil of a 3 phase, 16 pole, 50 Hz, salient pole alternator, based on the following
design information. Diameter of the stator = 1.0 m, gross length of the stator = 0.3 m, section of
the pole body = 0.15 m x 0.3 m, height of the pole = 0.15 m, Ampere turns per pole =6500, exciter
voltage = 110 volts, Assume missing data suitably.
Slon. Sectional area of the conductor:
Assuming 30 volts as reserve in field regulator
Vc = 110 30 / 16 = 5 volts
Assuming depth of the field coil = 3 cm, thickness of insulation = 1 cm
Mean length of the turn = 2( lp + bp) + (df + 2ti) = 2 ( 0.3 + 0.15) + ( 0.03 + 2 x 0.01) = 1.05 m
Sectional area of the conductor af = x lmt x If Tf / Vc
= (0.021 x 1.05 x 6000)/5 = 28.66 mm2
Standard size of the conductor available = 28.5 mm2 with the size 16 mm x 1.8 mm
Assuming an insulation thickness of 0.5 mm over the conductor
size of the conductor = 16.5 mm x 2.3 mm
Assuming an insulation of 2mm between the layers
Actual depth of the field winding = 16.5 + 2 + 16.5 = 35 mm or 3.5 cm
Field current: Assuming a current density of 2.6 amps/ mm2
Field current If = af x f =28.5 x 2.6 = 74 amps
Number of turns: Tf = If Tf/ If = 6000/74 = 88 turns
Arrangement of turns: As decided above 88 turns are arranged in two layers with 44 turns in each
layer. Height of each field turn = 2.3 mm
Hence height of the field coil = 44 x 2.3 = 10.1 cm
As height of the pole is 15 cm, height of the field coil is satisfactory.
Resistance of the field coil Rf = x lmt x Tf / af
= 0.021 x 1.05 x 88/ 28.5
= 0.068
Filed Copper loss: If2 Rf = 742 x 0.068 = 372 watts
Total field cu loss = 16 x 372 = 5.95 kW.
Ex.4. Design the field coil of a 500 rpm, 3 phase, 50 Hz alternator having the following design data.
Diameter of stator = 95 cm, Core length = 30 cm, Pole body = 10 cm x 30 cm, Field ampere
turns = 6000, Excitation voltage = 80 volts. Heat dissipation from the outer surface = 0.35
watts/ cm2. Assume missing data suitably.

36

Soln: Area of the field coil:

Number of field coils or poles = 120f/Ns = 120 x 50 /500 =12
Assuming 20 volts in the field regulator
Voltage per coil = 80 -20/ 12 = 5 volts
Ampere turns /pole =6000
Pole body = 10 cm x 30 cm,
Assuming depth of the field coil = 3 cm,
Thickness of insulation = 1 cm
Mean length of the turn = 2( lp + bp) + (df + 2ti)
= 2 ( 0.3 + 0.1) + ( 0.03 + 2 x 0.01) = 0.957 m
Sectional area of the conductor af = x lmt x If Tf / Vc
= (0.021 x 0.957 x 6000)/5 = 24.2 mm2
Standard size of the conductor available 14.2 mm x 1.7 mm
Assuming an insulation thickness of 0.5 mm over the conductor
Assuming an insulation of 1.6 mm between the layers
Actual depth of the field winding = 14.2 + 1.6 + 14.2 = 3.0 cm
Number of turns: Heat dissipation from the outer surface = 0.35 watts/cm2
Area of the outer surface of the field coil = ( lmt + df ) hf = (95.7 + x 3) hf
= 105.1 hf cm2
Hence heat dissipated = 0.35 x 105.1 hf = 36.8 hf = Vc x If
= Vc x If Tf / Tf
Hence 36.8 hf = Vc x If Tf / Tf
= 5 x 6000/ Tf
Hence hf Tf = 5 x 6000/ 36.8 = 815
Assuming an insulation thickness of 0.15 mm between the conductors
Height of each conductor = Height of conductor + insulation
= 1.7 + 0.15 = 1.85 mm =0.185 cm
Assuming that the turns are arranged in two layers
Height of turns / layer hf = 0.185 x Tf /2
Hence hf Tf = 0.185 x Tf /2 x Tf = 815
Tf = 94
Hence height of the field coil hf = 0.185 x Tf /2 = 0.185 x 94/2 = 8.7 cm
Field current If = 6000/94 = 64 amps
Resistance of the field coil Rf = x lmt x Tf / af
= 0.021 x 0.957 x 94/ 24.2
= 0.078
Filed Copper loss: If2 Rf = 642 x 0.078 = 320 watts
Total field cu loss = 12 x 320 = 3.84 kW.

Design of the field System: NonSalient pole Alternator:

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In case of turbo alternators, the rotor windings or the field windings are distributed in the rotor
slots. The rotor construction of the turbo alternator is as shown in fig. below.

Normally 70% of the rotor is slotted and remaining portion is unslotted in order to form the pole.
The design of the field can be explained as follows.
(i)
Selection of rotor slots: Total number of rotor slots may be assumed as 50 70 % of stator
slots pitches. However the so found rotor slots must satisfy the following conditions in
order to avoid the undesirable effects of harmonics in the flux density wave forms.
(a) There should be no common factor between the number of rotor slot pitches and number of
stator slot pitches.
(b) Number of wound rotor slots should be divisible by 4 for a 2 pole synchronous machine. That
means the number of rotor slots must be multiple of 4.
(c) Width of the rotor slot is limited by the stresses developed at the rotor teeth and end rings.
(ii)
Design of rotor winding
(a) Full load field mmf can be taken as twice the armature mmf.
ATfl = 2 x ATa = 2 x 1.35 x Iph x Tph x kw /p
(b) Standard exciter voltage of 110 - 220 volts may be taken. With 15-20 % of this may be
reserved for field control. Hence voltage across each field coil Vf = (0.8 to 0.85) V/p
(c) Length of the mean turn lmt = 2L + 1.8 p + 0.25 m
(d) Sectional area of each conductor af = x lmt x (If x Tf) / vf
(e) Assume suitable value of current density in the rotor winding. 2.5 3.0 amp/mm2 for
conventionally cooled machines and 8 12 amp/mm2 for large and special cooled machines.
(f) Find area of all the rotor conductors per pole = 2 x (If x Tf) /f
(g) Find the number of rotor conductors per pole = 2 x (If x Tf) / (f x af)
(h) Number of field conductors per slot = 2 x (If x Tf) / (f x af x sr), where sr is the number of
rotor slots.
(i) Resistance of each field coil Rf = x lmt x Tf / af
(j) Calculate the current in the field coil If = vf/ Rf
Based on the above data dimensions may be fixed. The ratio of slot depth to slot width may be
taken between 4 and 5. Enough insulation has to be provided such that it with stands large amount
of mechanical stress and the forces coming on the rotor.
The following insulation may be provided for the field coil.
(i)
All field conductors are provided with mica tape insulation.

38

(ii)
(iii)
(iv)
(v)

Various turns in the slots are separated from each other by 0.3 mm mica separators.
0.5 mm hard mica cell is provided on all the field coil.
Over the above insulation, 1.5 mm flexible mica insulation is provided.
Lastly a steel cell of o.6 mm is provided on the whole field coil.

Ex. 1. Design the rotor of a 3 phase 20 MVA, 11 kV, 3000 rpm, 50 Hz, turbo alternator with the
following design data. Diameter at the air gap = 0.8 m, Gross length = 2.4 m, stator turns per phase
= 18, Number of stator slots = 36, Exciter voltage = 220 volts, Estimate (i) Number of rotor slots,
(ii) area of the field conductor (iii) Turns in the filed coil and (iv) Field current
Soln: (i) Number of rotor slots : Selection of rotor slots: Total number of rotor slots may be
assumed as 50 70 % of stator slots. Normally 70% of the rotor is slotted and remaining portion is
unslotted.
Number of stator slots = 36
Hence number of slots pitches must be between 18 to 26
Satisfying the conditions number of rotor slot pitches = 23
Number of wound slots = 16
(ii)Area of the field conductor
Assuming 40 volts in the field regulator voltage across filed coil = 220 40 /2 = 90 volts
Armature ampere turns /pole ATa=1. 35 Iph Tph Kw /p
= 1.35 x 1050 x 18 x 0.955/ 1 = 24300 AT
Assuming full load field ampere turns/pole = 2 x ATa = 2 x 24300 = 48600 AT
Mean length of the turn is given by lmt = 2L + 1.8 p + 0.25 m
= 2 x 2.4 + 1.8 x 1.256 + 0.25
= 7.31 m
Area of the field conductor af = x lmt x (If x Tf) / vf
= 0.021 x 7.31 x 48600/90
= 83.22 mm2
(iii) Number of field turns : Full load field ampere turns/pole = 48600 AT
Full load field ampere conductors/pole = 2 x 48600 AT
Assuming a current density of 2.6 amp/mm2
Area of all the rotor conductors = 2 x 48600 / 2.6 = 37400 mm2
Number of rotor conductors/pole = 37400/84 = 445
Number of wound slots per pole = 16/2 = 8
Number of conductors per slot = 445/8 = 56
Modified value of conductors per pole = 56 x 8 = 448
Number of field turns per pole Tf = 448/2 = 224
Number of coils per pole = 8/2 = 4
(iv)
Field current: Resistance of the field coil Rf = x lmt x Tf / af
= 0.021 x 7.31 x 224/ 84
= 0.41
Current in the field winding If = Vc/ Rf = 90/0.41 = 219 Amps.

39

References
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.

A Course in Electrical Machine Design A. K. Sawhney

Design of Electrical Machines V. N. Mittle
Performance and Design of A C Machines M G Say
Design and Testing of Electrical Machines M. V. Deshapande
Electrical Machine Design Data Book Shanmugsundaram and Palani
www.google.com and related websites
www.phasemotorparts.com
www.wikipedia.org
Krishna Vasudevan et. al. Electrical Machines II, Indian Institute of Technology, Madras

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