2002 · 18 citations · 2 references
EngineeringElectrical EngineeringPhysicsElectromagnetismFinite Element AnalysisFinite Element MethodsMagnetic CharacterizationMagnetic Circuit AnalysisMagnetic ComponentsMagnetization ProcessesPermanent Magnet MachinesAlternator TestingFinite Element Analysis Of Magnetic ComponentsFinite Element Magnetic AnalysisFlux Distribution AnalysisMagnetic Component ModelingMagnetic Field StrengthOpen-circuit VoltageSpace Power Systems
The NASA Glen Research Center and DOE are developing advanced radioisotope Stirling converters, and a lightweight, highly efficient linear alternator is critical for space power applications. This paper presents a 3‑D finite element method (FEM) approach for evaluating Stirling convertor linear alternators. The authors use the 3‑D FEM to model and assess the magnetic performance of the linear alternator. Preliminary results show that the FEM model correlates well with measured open‑circuit voltage and that high‑field regions near the permanent magnets could alter their magnetic moment, indicating the need for further testing.
The NASA Glen Research Center and the Department of Energy (DOE) are developing advanced radioisotope Stirling convertors, under contract with Stirling Technology Company (STC), for space applications. Of critical importance to the successful development of the Stirling convertor for space power applications is the development of a lightweight and highly efficient linear alternator. This paper presents a 3-D finite element method (FEM) approach for evaluating Stirling convertor linear alternators. Preliminary correlations with open-circuit voltage measurements provide an encouraging level of confidence in the model. Spatial plots of magnetic field strength (H) are presented in the region of the exciting permanent magnets. These plots identify regions of high H, where at elevated temperature and under electrical load, the potential to alter the magnetic moment of the magnets exists. This implies the need for further testing and analysis.
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