Abstract: An improved generator rotor (30) and a method of repairing an existing generator rotor (12) are disclosed. Methods consistent with the present invention provide techniques for repairing existing stress-damaged rotors (12) to remove stress-induced cracks (29), without requiring new retaining rings (16), to significantly extend the useful life of a generator without the cost and complexity of conventional repair techniques. Improved generator rotors (30) consistent with the present invention provide a tooth-top design that is more resistant to stress-induced cracking than conventional designs, resulting in new generators with longer useful lives.

Abstract: An improved generator rotor (30) and a method of repairing an existing generator rotor (12) are disclosed. Methods consistent with the present invention provide techniques for repairing existing stress-damaged rotors (12) to remove stress-induced cracks (29), without requiring new retaining rings (16), to significantly extend the useful life of a generator without the cost and complexity of conventional repair techniques. Improved generator rotors (30) consistent with the present invention provide a tooth-top design that is more resistant to stress-induced cracking than conventional designs, resulting in new generators with longer useful lives.

Abstract: An improved generator rotor (30) and a method of repairing an existing generator rotor (12) are disclosed. Methods consistent with the present invention provide techniques for repairing existing stress-damaged rotors (12) to remove stress-induced cracks (29), without requiring new retaining rings (16), to significantly extend the useful life of a generator without the cost and complexity of conventional repair techniques. Improved generator rotors (30) consistent with the present invention provide a tooth-top design that is more resistant to stress-induced cracking than conventional designs, resulting in new generators with longer useful lives.

Abstract: A dynamoelectric machine 20 includes a rotor assembly 24 and a main lead insulating assembly 26. The rotor assembly 24 includes a shaft 28 having a main lead receiving recess 32 in its outer surface, a rotor 30 mounted to the shaft 28, and a stator 22 surrounding the rotor 30. The main lead insulating assembly 26 lines the main lead receiving recess 32 and includes at least one insulating bottom block 34 axially secured to the shaft 28 and at least one insulating sidewall block 40 secured to the at least one insulating bottom block 34 with at least one interlocking joint 42. A main lead 35 is received in the main lead insulating assembly 26.

Abstract: A dynamoelectric machine 20 includes a rotor assembly 24 and a main lead insulating assembly 26. The rotor assembly 24 includes a shaft 28 having a main lead receiving recess 32 in its outer surface, a rotor 30 mounted to the shaft 28, and a stator 22 surrounding the rotor 30. The main lead insulating assembly 26 lines the main lead receiving recess 32 and includes at least one insulating bottom block 34 axially secured to the shaft 28 and at least one insulating sidewall block 40 secured to the at least one insulating bottom block 34 with at least one interlocking joint 42. A main lead 35 is received in the main lead insulating assembly 26.

Abstract: A generator rotor lead path configuration includes a plurality of electrically conductive components attached to each other. These components may include an axial lead, a flexible connector, an intermediary, a radial lead, and/or a J-strap. The improved lead path inhibits, if not prevents, lead path failure. A method of assembling or fitting the lead path into a generator is also provided, as well as a method of replacing or retrofitting a lead path that is susceptible to failure with the improved lead path configuration. Assistance in determining causes of lead path failure and ways to overcome lead path failure are also provided.

Abstract: An electrical generator having a keyway for a retaining ring key formed in only the pole portion of the rotor and not in the tooth region of the rotor, and a method of repairing an electrical generator by forming such a keyway. The present invention lengthens the operating life of the rotor by eliminating a stress-concentrating discontinuity and by reducing the loads in the highly stressed tooth region of the rotor.

Abstract: A method for repairing stress-induced cracks in a generator rotor keyway is disclosed. The method comprises disassembling the retaining ring and ring key from the rotor, and machining away the crack and surrounding rotor metal from the rotor keyway. The machining step may be performed in a lathe or milling machine. This method diminishes the labor cost, equipment cost, and down time required for crack repairs because the slot contents may remain in the slots during the entire repair process. A spacer ring and an enlarged key that may be inserted into the machined, enlarged keyway are also disclosed.