Overview of the development of superconducting synchronous generators

Superconducting synchronous generators are being developed world wide. Early results established the feasibility of these machines and showed that the best configuration is a rotating superconducting field inside a normally conducting armature in the stator. Extensive analytical development is providing a sound basis for the design of superconducting AC machines. Recent experimental results have demonstrated power density improvements over that of conventional generators. The designs developed by different groups are significantly different in the following areas: Rotor shielding and rotor structure; field coil support and construction; superconductor design; helium system design; and armature configuration. The development strategies of the groups have different emphases on basic engineering, development of components, and construction of prototypes. The major deficiencies of the programs are no full-load or full-fault testing.