Status of development of superconducting AC generators

Abstract

Superconducting generators are being developed throughout the world. The present status of this effort is reviewed and the different ways in the development programs of the leading manufacturers are outlined. The report describes tne comprehensive multi-step program of advanced turbogenerator technology established by KWU/Siemens which includes the manufacture and testing of a superconducting rotor of full commercial size but reduced active length. Rotor design and materials as well as the test facilities are shown. Some major problems of superconducting generators are discussed and the technical and economic benefits in comparison with conventional generators are described.