Title :
Generator reliability as influenced by engineering design parameters
Author :
Maughan, Clyde V.
Author_Institution :
Maughan Eng. Consultants, Schenectady, NY, USA
Abstract :
In recent years, power-plant life expectancy has extended beyond 40 to 50 years, including on large, high-duty generating equipment. Simultaneously, commercial pressures have lead generator designers of new equipment to: (1) reduce safety and duty margins; (2) move toward higher stress levels; and (3) increase the rate of implementation of new design concepts. The net effect has been a negative impact on generator reliability and life expectancy, and has lead to a significant increase in maintenance costs. In this paper, the impacts of the four basic deterioration mechanisms on generators are considered (TEAM): thermal, electrical, ambient, and mechanical. Only those design factors directly relating to deterioration are considered. These topics are discussed rather comprehensively but in relatively nontechnical terms. A better understanding of these deterioration mechanisms should assist owners of generators to implement better operating and maintenance practices, and thus reduce maintenance costs and extend reliable life of the generator
Keywords :
design engineering; electric generators; failure analysis; maintenance engineering; reliability; design factors; deterioration mechanisms; duty margins; engineering design parameters; generator life expectancy; generator reliability; high-duty generating equipment; maintenance costs; maintenance practices; operating practices; safety margins; stress levels; Costs; Design engineering; Dielectrics and electrical insulation; Electronic mail; Maintenance; Manufacturing; Power engineering and energy; Power generation; Reliability engineering; Stators;
Conference_Titel :
Electrical Insulation Conference and Electrical Manufacturing & Coil Winding Conference, 2001. Proceedings
Conference_Location :
Cincinnati, OH
Print_ISBN :
0-7803-7180-1
DOI :
10.1109/EEIC.2001.965605