Beyond IEEE Std 115 & API 546: Test procedures for high-speed, multi-megawatt permanent-magnet synchronous machines

High-speed multi-megawatt permanent-magnet machines have been proposed in the literature and offered for sale in a variety of petro-chemical applications. Presently, the discussion of synchronous machines in both IEEE Std 115 and American Petroleum Institute (API) 546 exclude consideration of permanent-magnet synchronous machines. These machines pose special problems when attempting to apply the test procedures given for wound-field synchronous machines in that many of the tests rely on the ability to adjust the field strength. In addition, a permanent-magnet-rotor topology has different performance and robustness concerns than a wound-field machine that should be addressed. This paper attempts to outline a coherent method for evaluating high-speed permanent-magnet machines by extending the test procedures outlined in IEEE Std 115, and by presenting additional procedures specific to permanent-magnet machines. Extended application guidelines will be discussed for high-speed, multi-megawatt machines. The differences between the risk profile for permanent-magnet machines and wound-field machines will be highlighted with a particular emphasis on risk mitigation via test for the permanent-magnet machine.