What sets us apart is our groundbreaking C-GEN technology, a modular and lightweight permanent magnet direct drive generator concept developed by experts at the University of Edinburgh's Institute for Energy Systems. This technology is an exceptional tool in our arsenal and is available for application if deemed suitable for your project. Its adaptability to diverse sectors ensures that solutions are efficient and cost-effective.

C-GEN Technology Overview

C-GEN is an innovative type of Permanent Magnet Generator (PMG) that uses air-cored technology. This technology is notable for its unique and patented design features, making it suitable for direct-drive applications at slow or medium speeds.

Key Design Features

1. Axial Flux Topology with C-shaped Rotor Core:
   • Axial Flux Topology: In traditional generators, the magnetic flux moves radially (from the centre outwards or vice versa). In axial flux designs, the magnetic flux moves parallel to the axis of rotation. This typically allows for a more compact and efficient design.
   • C-shaped Rotor Core: The rotor (the rotating part of the generator) is designed in a C-shape, which can help optimise the magnetic flux paths and improve the efficiency and performance of the generator.
2. Air-cored Stator Arrangement:
   • Air-cored Stator: The stator (the stationary part of the generator) does not have a solid iron core. Instead, it uses air as the core material, reducing weight and eliminating core losses (energy losses that typically occur in iron-cored generators due to magnetic hysteresis and eddy currents).
3. Electrically Independent Axial Generator Stages:
   • The generator is divided into multiple stages along the axis. Each stage functions independently in terms of its electrical output. This modularity can enhance reliability because if one stage fails, the others can continue to operate.
4. Low Weight Standardised Modules:
   • Modular Design: The rotor and stator are divided into standardised, lightweight modules arranged around the generator's circumference. This modular approach makes the generator easier to manufacture, assemble, and maintain.

Application and Benefits

• Direct Drive: Suitable for applications where the generator is directly driven by the prime mover (e.g., a turbine) without needing a gearbox, simplifying the mechanical design and improving reliability.
• Slow or Medium Speed: Designed to operate efficiently at lower speeds, making it ideal for applications like wind turbines or tidal generators, where the rotational speeds are generally lower.
• Efficiency and Maintenance: The air-cored design reduces losses and weight, and the modular design facilitates more manageable maintenance and potential scalability.

More Information

• CGEN website

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