Development of salient pole rotor for conventional automotive and aircraft alternator to increase reliability

Abstract

This thesis includes the redesign and construction details of a salient pole rotor for an existing aircraft alternator. Salient pole rotor was designed to increase reliability of the conventional automotive and aircraft alternator. Details of the mechanical and electrical design methodology and implementation are included. Various parameters considered for design are also explained. The designed rotor matches the dimensions of the conventional automotive and aircraft alternator rotor, since the same alternator stator was used. The stator had a three phase delta-connected winding. It is used in aircraft to charge a battery at various modes of operation, as explained here. The experimental results of conventional automotive and aircraft alternator rotors and the salient pole rotor are compared and discussed. The salient pole rotor experiment included various air gaps and different field-winding tests. The rotor design is not exactly as required, but a thorough understanding of different aspects of the machine was achieved. Guidelines for further modifications are included in this thesis.