Materials for Generator Retaining Rings

Retaining rings are among the highest stressed components of electricial generators, whose integrity is critical to the reliable and safe operation of the generators. The steel currently used for this application is susceptible to stress corrosion cracking and is also limited by yield strength to about 1200 MPa. The use of alternate materials with improved mechanical properties can enhance the reliability, efficiency, size capability and availability of generators. This paper is a state-of-the-art review of the materials technology pertaining to retaining rings.