An evaluation of alternative stator lamination materials for a high-speed, 1.5 MW, permanent magnet generator

The influence of the choice of stator lamination material on the iron loss in a high speed, high power permanent magnet generator, which is interfaced to a DC link via a simple bridge rectifier, is investigated. The rating of the generator is representative of machines which would be employed in 'more-electric' ships and for embedded power generation. It is shown that the iron loss can be reduced considerably by employing 6.5% SiFe laminations rather than 3% SiFe. It is also shown that, due to the high harmonic content in the phase current waveforms, the iron loss density can vary widely over the stator laminations.