Application of a high speed, high power eddy current coupling on a turbine test stand

This paper discusses the design philosophy and problems associated with a 5 MW, 3000 RPM eddy current coupling with integral eddy current brake. The application is a turbine blade test facility. The test stand facility is used to simulate and monitor turbine blade performance under the following conditions: (1) blade loss test; (2) impact test (simulates bird impact); (3) overspeed test; (4) high frequency fatigue test (water spray); and (5) low frequency fatigue test (life cycle, testing). To minimise the air resistance and subsequent running loads the turbine is housed in a vacuum chamber.