**Abstract**

The aim of this research is to optimize the design of an 18-poled 8000 rpm 7 kVA high-speed permanent magnet synchronous generator. The goal is to find the best factor levels for the design parameters, namely magnet thickness (MH), offset, and embrace (EMB) to optimize the responses namely efficiency (%), rated torque (N.m), air-gap flux density (Tesla), armature current density (A/mm<sup>2</sup> ), armature thermal load (A<sup>2</sup> /mm<sup>3</sup> ). The aim is to keep the air-gap flux density at 1 tesla while maximizing efficiency and minimizing the rest of the responses. Optimization was carried out with one sample algorithm selected from each of the commonly used optimization algorithm classifications. For this purpose, different class of well-known optimization techniques such as response surface methodology (gradient-based methods), genetic algorithm (evolutionary-based algorithms), particle swarm optimization algorithm (swarm-based optimization algorithms), and modified social group optimization algorithm (human-based optimization algorithms) are selected. In the Ansys Maxwell environment, numerical simulations are carried out. Mathematical modeling and optimizations are performed by using Minitab and Matlab, respectively. Confirmations are also performed. Results of the comparisons show that modified social group optimization and particle swarm optimization algorithms a bit outperform the response surface methodology and genetic algorithm, for this design problem.

**Keywords:** high-speed alternator, permanent magnet synchronous generator, electric machine design, design optimization, response surface methodology, modified social group optimization algorithm, particle swarm optimization algorithm, genetic algorithm
