API 546 - Sealed winding conformance

[NickParker]

The specification states: "The insulation system shall be completely sealed per API 546."
Generators manufactured to IEC 60034 are easier to procure, have shorter lead times, and are less expensive compared to those built to API 546.
I understand that the testing requirements under API 546 are more rigorous than those under IEC 60034, but I am unsure about the broader advantages and disadvantages between the two standards.
According to API 546, Section 4.3.5, the stator windings, including the lead connections, must have a sealed insulation system capable of passing a sealed winding conformance test in accordance with NEMA MG 1, Part 20.
If we choose not to perform the API 546 test, are there any significant disadvantages that I should be aware of?

 

[edison123]

API machines are mostly for Ex applications which are naturally costlier than generic IEC or IEEE machines.

Buy the standards and learn the differences.

 

[Gr8blu]

If the machine is intended to operate where there is a high likelihood of appreciable moisture - either through condensation or other environmental conditions - using a sealed insulation system is probably a wise choice, particularly for machines operating above a few hundred volts. The more critical the machine is to the process, the "better" the system should be.

API standards are - like most standards - written by those who "survived" an event where the "normal" construction didn't hold up. Thus, they ask for better construction and materials, as well as better testing to prove the machine can handle the incidents which caused the standard to be written. And manufacturing a "better mousetrap" costs more - both in time and money.

Some testing defined in the API standards is optional and some is not. As Muthu mentioned - get a copy of the standard and know the differences.