Magnetic circuit properties of the flux-switch inductor alternator

The importance of the flux-switch-type inductor alternator as a device to provide electric power from high-shaft-speed turbine-driven sources has provided the need to extend the previous information available on the characteristics of the typical magnetic circuit used in such alternators. The experimental program presented in this paper includes data on the flux distribution in the electromagnet, yoke, stator pole tips, and rotor sections as functions of the field excitation. Standard ballistic galvanometer test procedures were employed to measure flux densities. Leakage patterns associated with the magnetic circuit are described. The relatively high internal impedance of the flux-switch alternator is shown to be the result of multiple flux paths linking the armature.