Winding element for an axial flow machine, stator assembly for an axial flow machine and methods for manufacturing a stator for an axial flow

The invention relates to a winding element (1) for manufacturing a stator (2) for an electrical machine, in particular an axial flow machine, wherein the winding element (1) is formed of a conductor strand, comprising: - a plurality of loop portions (11) to be placed on the stator teeth (22) of a stator; and - one or more connecting portions (12) are provided between the loop portions (11), to space the loop portions (11) evenly in the arrangement direction of the plurality of loop portions (11) from each other, wherein at least one of the connecting portions (12) (with a gradation 14) is provided transversely to the extension of the loop portions (11).