New AC+DC Generator to Reduce Weight/Increase Power Availability on the H-1Y/Z Aircraft

Electrodynamics Associates, Inc. (EAI) has designed an AC+DC generator suitable for aircraft applications. The generator is a variable speed machine with a nominal speed of 8000 rpm. It provides a 28V DC output with a nominal rating of 400A, and a 115/ 200 V, three-phase output with a nominal rating of 5 kVA and a power factor of 0.7 to 1. This is a compact generator with the capability of eliminating the need for external inverters to provide AC power on helicopters. This helps improve the power density, efficiency, and reliability of the electric power system on helicopters. A controller to provide independent voltage regulation for the AC and DC power as well as protective functions is also designed. During Phase II it is planned that EAI will fabricate two sets of the AC +DC generator and controller. The generator geometric profile will be made to suit the existing mounting arrangements on the gearbox pads of specific helicopters. Tests will be performed to meet and demonstrate the electrical performance requirements per the relevant military standards: Mil-G-21480, Mil-PRF-21480, and Mil-G-6162. The performance tests will include load tests to full load and overload, tests to verify parallel operation and load sharing by the DC generators, voltage regulation under steady state and transient states, and fault protection. Two sets of hardware will be delivered to Navair. It is anticipated that follow up programs with Navair support will be requested to transition the generator technology for insertion in specific helicopter programs.