2500INSPMG

Reformatted, February 1999 with

Permission of Electric Machinery

GE Power Systems
Generator

Electric Machinery
PMG Instruction Manual

These instructions do not purport to cover all details or variations in equipment nor to provide for every possible
contingency to be met in connection with installation, operation or maintenance. Should further information be desired or
should particular problems arise which are not covered sufficiently for the purchasers purposes the matter should be
referred to the GE Company.

2500INSPMG

Electric Machinery

I. CONSTRUCTION
The PMG stator has a single phase winding in a laminated core. The rotor contains 12 strong permanent magnets. The PMG is coated with a fungus and moisture resistant varnish. The PMG is bolted to the end of the
main generator shaft, outboard of the diode wheel and exciter.
With reasonable care the PMG will give years of trouble-free service. It is not adversely affected by a dead
short at its terminals for a short time. Prolonged overloads or short circuits can damage the windings.
CAUTION
Do not apply ac or dc voltage to the winding of the PMG that will cause current
to flow through the winding.
II. DESCRIPTION OF OPERATION
The brushless excitation system with a PMG is an independent, reliable device for providing dc excitation
current to the main generator. Rotation of the permanent magnet furnishes ac power which is rectified and
controlled by the voltage regulator for excitation of the exciter field. Alternating current is produced by the
exciter and rectified by the diode assembly. The output of the diode assembly is fed directly to the main generator field.
The PMG is self-ventilated by the inherent fan action of the diode wheel. Air is drawn in through the exciter
assembly and passes over the PMG.
III. INITIAL INSPECTION AND STORAGE
If not mounted on the main generator, the PMG parts are shipped in a foam sealed container. Desiccant is
included and unpainted surfaces are rust protected. This provides adequate protection for indoor storage of
3 to 6 months. Inspect for shipping damage.
The PMG motor is a strong magnet. It should be covered to keep it from picking up iron filings. Large iron
masses should not touch the rotor as this could demagnetize the rotor.

Rotor

Stator

Electric Machinery

2500INSPMG

IV. ASSEMBLY
Follow the instructions and drawings supplied with the exciter.
The PMG stator weight is 32 pounds. The rotor weight is 31 pounds.
After mounting the PMG stator and rotor, measure the PMG air gap (0.0880.083 inches) at 4 positions 90
apart. Center the PMG rotor so that the air gaps are whin 5% of the average. Tighten the mounting bolts.
Check to make sure that all bolts are torqued as required. Bend all lockplates and install lock wires to secure
the critical bolts.
V. PERIODIC MAINTENANCE
The PMG should be cleaned with the same regularity and tin the same manner as the main generator. All lead
wires should be in good condition and tightly fastened. The corrosion resistant coating should not be damaged. Any connections removed and replaced should be sprayed with a good quality, air drying insulating
varnish.
WARNING
Adequate cleaning requires solvent use. Provide adequate ventilation and
avoid contact with skin. Use extreme caution with petroleum solvents, as
their fumes are highly flammable.
For best results, apply solvents under pressure using an aspirator or similar device with a clean, dry compressed air supply. Less efficient, but acceptable means of applying solvent include self-contained (gardentype) sprayers, vacuum cleaner with spray attachment, portable sprayers and so forth.
Initial cleaning should be done with a slow drying solvent having good oil and dirt cutting properties. This
should wash out most of the dirt, oil and soot. Use Stoddard solvent, mineral spirits or alcohol. This should
be followed by a quick drying solvent, such as Freon-TF, which finish-cleans and leaves the wheel dry.
VI. INSULATION RESISTANCE
The PMG stator insulation resistance should be over 50 Megohms when tested with a 1,500 volt megger.
A low megger reading can be caused by dirt, moisture, or insulation damage (usually at some terminal).
Cleaning and drying is recommended.
VII. LOSS OF EXCITATION
If the PMG is suspected, disconnect the PMG from the regulator and check for winding continuity. The normal resistance of the PMG is 0.1 ohm. If the unit is running the open circuit voltage should be 100 to 150
volts ac.
If the problem still cannot be corrected, then thoroughly examine the main generator and control circuitry.
At this time contact the nearest Service Office for assistance.

GE Power Systems

Reference:
Electric Machinery
PMG Instruction Manual 9/81

General Electric Company

One River Road, Schenectady, NY 12345
518 385 2211 TX: 145354