Design Study of Large-Scale HTS Linear Generators for Wave Energy Conversion

We propose a direct-drive MW class high-temperature superconducting linear generator (HTS-LG) system for wave energy conversion. The HTS-LG consists of stationary HTS field part and iron-cored copper windings as translator. Moreover, we develop an electrical design method with leakage coefficient and HTS heat loss obtained by 3-D simulation for HTS-LGs. Determination of main machine parameters is studied. Design results of a 2-MW HTS-LG are finally presented, which are compared with those of a permanent magnet (PM) linear generator. We found that the HTS-LG has lighter weight, smaller volume, and higher efficiency than the PM counterpart does.