Abstract: In a dynamoelectric machine having a rotating field and a stationary stator core, electrical conductors are contained within axially-extending radial slots which are part of the stator core construction. These electrical conductors are subject to electromagnetic forces and thermal cycling effects which, over a period of time, tend to cause the electrical conductors to become loose within their slots. A system of wedges is used to retain these electrical conductors in place and in particular a dovetail wedge is used in combination with a mating surface in a stator slot.

Abstract: In a dynamoelectric machine having a rotating field and a stationary stator core, electrical conductors are contained within axially-extending radial slots which are part of the stator core construction. The electrical conductors for stator bars are subject to electromagnetic forces and thermal cycling effects which, over a period of time, tend to cause the stator bars to become loose within their slots. The invention is an improved wedging system which provides both an immediate and residual force on the stator bars which holds the bars in place even after certain settlements have taken place. Further, it is possible to determine the amount of force applied initially to the stator bars by the wedging system and any residual force after a period of operation.