Numerical simulation of a high-power density 10 MW REBCO superconducting synchronous generator cooled by sub-cooled LN2 for low AC loss

Abstract

Generators used in electric aircraft require a high-power density, and AC loss is also a significant problem. We designed 10 MW REBCO superconducting synchronous generators at 64 K to achieve a power density of 20 kW/kg and low AC loss. In this study, electromagnetic analyses were performed using finite element method software. Consequently, the thickness of the back yoke is 50 mm or less so that the generator can meet the target power density. The method of decreasing the magnetic field of the armature winding and increasing that of the field winding was used to effectively reduce the AC loss. As a result, the generator achieved a high-power density of 21.0 kW/kg, reducing the AC loss from over 600 kW to 415 kW.