New Publication: Fault Impact on Dual-Rotor Surface PMSG via Finite Element Method
We are pleased to announce the latest MEGA WAVE PTO project research, presented at the 2025 IEEE International Conference on Environment and Electrical Engineering (EEEIC) and IEEE Industrial and Commercial Power Systems Europe (I&CPS Europe). This study examines how common electrical and mechanical faults affect the performance of the dual-rotor permanent magnet synchronous generator (PMSG) known as C-GEN, using advanced finite element analysis (FEA).
About the research
Permanent magnet synchronous generators (PMSGs) are central to offshore renewable applications, providing high torque density, compact design, and low maintenance. However, they remain vulnerable to key electrical faults such as inter-turn short circuits, partial and uniform demagnetization, and static or dynamic eccentricities.
This study applies detailed FEA simulations to evaluate how these faults impact the voltage, current, power input/output, efficiency, and magnetic field distribution of C-GEN. The results highlight the importance of early diagnosis to prevent fault escalation, excessive heating, and efficiency losses in wave, tidal, and wind energy systems.
Key contributions
Investigates fault behaviour in dual-rotor PMSGs using finite element method (FEM) simulations
Evaluates performance degradation across voltage, current, efficiency, and electromagnetic fields
Demonstrates the necessity of innovative diagnostic strategies for early fault detection
Provides insights to improve reliability and reduce maintenance requirements in offshore renewables
Publication details
Title: Fault Impact on Dual-Rotor Surface Permanent Magnet Synchronous Generator via the Finite Element Method
Authors: Nikolaos Gkiolekas, Marios Salinas, Alexandros Sergakis, Stefanos Karampas, Konstantinos N. Gyftakis
Published in: 2025 IEEE International Conference on Environment and Electrical Engineering (EEEIC) & IEEE Industrial and Commercial Power Systems Europe (I&CPS Europe)
Conference Dates: 15–18 July 2025, Chania, Crete, Greece
DOI: 10.1109/EEEIC/ICPSEurope64998.2025.11169032
Why this research matters
By quantifying the impact of faults on dual-rotor PMSG performance, this work provides a foundation for developing fault-tolerant designs and robust condition monitoring systems for offshore renewable applications. These advances directly support the MEGA WAVE PTO project’s mission to deliver reliable and resilient generator technology for wave energy conversion.
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