Development of a 5 MVA Superconducting Generator Testing and Evaluation

A 5 MVA superconducting generator has been tested and the design performance has been achieved. The test results demonstrate the feasibility of applying superconducting electrical machinery to central station power plants and to ship propulsion systems. The testing and operation of a superconducting generator required a test facility with a number of features which are not normally found in a test facility for conventional electrical rotating machinery. The instrumentation and control systems are described, and the methods of operation and testing are discussed. The results of these tests and their significance are discussed.