Slim is in for Mitsubishi Electric Corp.’s power generator inspection robot. The inspection system is designed to pass through the narrow gap between the rotor and stator, eliminating the need to remove the rotor.

Thin inspection robot.The 19.9-mm-thin robot performs assessments of stator wedge tightness, detailed visual examinations, and core insulation inspections. It is capable of inspecting all Mitsubishi Electric mid- and large-sized generators.

A tapping mechanism incorporates a space-saving cam and can deliver a striking force 10 times that of a conventional mechanism. The tapping test uses original vibration analysis technology to detect five levels of stator wedge tightness, compared to the three levels detectable by a conventional robot, the company says.

Conventional generators inspections conducted by professionals every four years require approximately 34 days to complete, in part because the rotor must be removed. Because the inspection robot eliminates the need for rotor removal, inspections can be completed in six days, the company says. And data acquisition means that inspections can be carried out less frequently than every four years and help operators avoid stocking parts.