Electromagnetic Core Defect Detection (ELCID) Test

Generators are very important components in an industrial power plant and are designed to operate reliably for years. One of the most expensive parts of a 3-phase generator is the stator, where energy from the magnetic field is converted into electrical energy. The condition of the generator and its core deteriorates over time and the probability of failure increases. 

Quantitative tests and periodic inspections of the generator core are required to avoid unplanned outages. ARGIS allows checks to be done not only when the rotor is removed, but also when the rotor is still in place, thus saving you time, effort and money.

Big savings for In Situ Inspection with ARGIS: Less labor required to prepare the Generator for Inspection (0.5-3 shifts instead of a few weeks)

• Reducing downtime costs by up to 300.000 Euros
• Reducing lost productivity due to downtime (up to millions of euros)
• Less risk of damage to the generator
• Generator inspection may be out of an interruption critical path
• High repeatability
• All data is stored for future benchmarks and data trends
• Low flux leakage test with rotor forging excitation reduces generator disassembly
• Better expectation and planning possible for the next big outage (plan repair work or postponement)
• ARGIS can be combined with retaining ring test (KIRR)

About ELCID

For the Generator Inspection Vehicle (GIV), a chain containing motor drives and a docking station is mounted around one of the generator's retaining rings. The chain is placed correctly in front of each slot so the GIV can be placed in a gap of 17 mm (0,67 inches) and smaller. The GIV then moves to the other end of the stator core and back to perform LFCT, Wedge tightness test and visual inspections to save time.

Low flux leakage test
Electromagnetic core flux leakage test (ELCID or equivalent) is a standard specification. Step irons are measured with a separate module.

Wedge tightness test
The GIV is equipped with a stator wedge tap tester and determines wedge tightness based on spectral analysis of the sound response.

Visual test
The GIV is equipped with 4 camera modules: a forward-looking camera is used for general inspection of the stator teeth and wedges, another camera inspects the rotor body and cooling slots, and 2 cameras inspect the stator cooling slots.

EUROLAB, with its highly expert team and internationally accredited laboratories, Electromagnetic Core Defect Detection (ELCID) Test It performs all test, analysis, measurement, evaluation and report generation services completely and reliably.