Non-Invasive Detection of Rotor Short-Circuit Fault in Synchronous Machines by Analysis of Stray Magnetic Field and Frame Vibrations

This paper concerns a coupled analysis of the stray magnetic field and the external housing vibration of a synchronous machine to detect rotor short-circuit faults. Indeed, in addition to the possibility to measure these parameters with non-invasive equipment, these two measures depend on the air-gap flux density that is directly impacted by the short circuits of any nature. Hence, correlating these two quantities, it is achievable to confirm or discard an eventual motor fault. This method allows both to develop an analysis of non-invasive manner and to establish the magnetic state of a synchronous generator in normal operation. The experimental survey of stray magnetic field and housing vibration spectrum is shown as a promising alternative at low cost and easy to implement and to determine, for instance, rotor turn-to-turn winding faults. Faulty and healthy signatures are drawn from the measured spectra to determine a degree of healthy state of the synchronous machine.