Self-Excited Synchronous Machine Using Airgap Harmonics

This article introduces a self-excitation technology for field wound synchronous machines (FWSMs) to eliminate conventional components required by brushless and brushed static excitation systems. This technology is based on the utilization of pre-existing airgap flux harmonics, so no exciter or brush is required. The energy of these airgap harmonics at the slotting frequency is captured using rotor-mounted harvesting coils. A power electronic converter is then used to rectify the induced harvesting coil voltage and regulate the field winding current of the FWSM. Simulation results are presented showing the efficacy of the proposed method for a prototype FWSM under various loading conditions. For demonstration, a full-scale 5.4-MVA synchronous generator is used for design and validation.