Breathing Innovation into Shaft Generators : Rotating Machinery Development Department Jimin Seo, Senior Engineer

Chapter 1.  Launching the Shaft Generator Project

Jimin Seo is a Senior Engineer specializing in structural development in the Rotating Machinery Development Department at HD Hyundai Electric. Recently, he led the groundbreaking development of advanced Surface Permanent Magnet (SPM) shaft generator technology, significantly outperforming traditional approaches. In this edition of "People of HDE," we spoke with Jimin to explore the challenges and insights he gained throughout this ambitious project.

Covering A to Z in Rotating Machinery Development

The Rotating Machinery Development Department manages the complete lifecycle of product innovation—from initial design and development to standardization and AI-driven automation of production processes. This collaborative culture, which encourages ambitious goals and collective problem-solving, was instrumental in launching the SPM shaft generator project.

“Typically, new development projects undergo extensive review processes to assess their feasibility. However, given the strategic significance of this initiative—even though it wasn't initially planned as a formal project—we proactively moved forward. In the process of communicating with our customers, we felt that they wanted lighter and more efficient products. To tackle these concerns, our development team proposed developing a lighter, more cost-effective solution.”

“I constantly reflect on my work, asking myself questions like, ‘Why was it designed this way?’ and ‘What exactly does the customer expect from this specification?’ These questions push me to explore innovative ideas and practical solutions.”

Chapter 2: Beyond the Limits of Conventional Methods

Developing the shaft generator marked a significant new challenge for Jimin.

New Methods, New Challenges

“To meet the specifications our customers wanted, we had to move away from the conventional Interior Permanent Magnet(IPM) method and adopt the new Surface Permanent Magnet(SPM) approach.  Although the SPM method promised substantial advantages in weight reduction and manufacturing efficiency over traditional methods, it also introduced numerous structural challenges.”

Traditionally, the general SPM method required high-grade magnets because of their vulnerability to demagnetization, which negatively affects magnet performance.

Jimin actively collaborated with the Rotating Machinery Research Department and HD Hyundai Hungary Kft.-an R&D center for rotating machinery products- to refine ideas, ultimately developing HD Hyundai Electric’s unique SPM technology to address these challenges and securing a patent for it.

Solutions for Safe Assembly

The SPM method also raised safety considerations due to magnets being directly attached to the surface structure.

“The magnets used in the SPM method generate roughly 500 kg of magnetic force,  requiring dedicated assembly equipment for safe operation. To ensure stable attachment of the magnets, we developed a new piece of equipment. HD Hyundai Electric and HD Hyundai Hungary Kft. directly designed the core components, while efforts were focused on incorporating maximum automation features in collaboration with our partners. A patent application for this equipment is also currently in progress.”

“Throughout development, we encountered numerous challenges, but we resolved each issue step by step through close collaboration with the Rotating Machinery Research Department, our partners, and HD Hyundai Hungary Kft.. 

By bringing together diverse ideas to create solutions, we successfully developed a shaft generator incorporating HD Hyundai Electric’s unique SPM method.

Chapter 3: Achievements of Today, Goals for Tomorrow

Jimin led the project by proactively responding to market changes and proposing a new approach. By collaborating closely with multiple departments and industry experts, he successfully led the development of HD Hyundai Electric’s advanced SPM shaft generator technology—an accomplishment recognized with last year's prestigious "HD Electric Award."

Moments When the Puzzle Pieces Fit Together

"Every stage of this development journey was uncharted territory. With no existing benchmarks, we constantly had to define our own path and discover the best possible solutions. It certainly wasn't easy, and we faced numerous hurdles. Yet, there were rewarding moments when previously scattered challenges gradually came together, like puzzle pieces finally fitting perfectly."

Through this process of overcoming numerous technical challenges, he gained an important realization.

“While working on this project, I realized how much I truly enjoy this work. The endless challenges and the pursuit of solutions became the driving force that kept me going."

New Challenges, Greater Goals

Continuous dedication to new technologies and collaborative efforts led to the invaluable achievement of developing proprietary technology. Jimin emphasized that teamwork with his colleagues was a key factor in the project's success. His journey of innovation is far from over. "If we compare this technology to automobiles, ships equipped with shaft generators are similar to hybrid cars. Just as electric vehicles are rapidly gaining popularity, the maritime industry is also moving toward electrification in response to stricter environmental regulations and increasing demands for fuel efficiency."

“To prepare for this shift, the Rotating Machinery Development Department is actively developing various propulsion motors, and within the HD Hyundai Group, an Electrification Center has been established to research electric propulsion systems. Moving forward, my goal is to lead the next-generation eco-friendly ship market”'