Abstract: Potentially very high power ratings can be achieved from rotary electrical generators in which permanent magnet rotor stages using modern high intensity magnetic materials, for example cobalt samarium or neodymium boron iron. The machine described comprises a plurality of axial field rotor stages each comprising a plurality of magnet segments arranged around a driven hub in a pre-stressed assembly in which encompassing hoop means exerts sufficient compressive stress on the magnets and hub assembly to counter centripetal forces generated by speeds of up to 100,000 rpm. Alternative methods of stressing the hoop means is described.