Synchronous Generators Flashcards

Flashcards for reviewing lecture notes on synchronous generators.

Effect of increasing connected load on synchronous generator:

Increments in active power (P) or reactive power (Q) of the generator.

Power factor of a generator connected with an inductive load:

It will be lagging.

Voltage regulation of a synchronous generator connected with an inductive load:

Voltage regulation is highly positive.

Voltage regulation of a synchronous generator connected with a resistive load:

Voltage regulation is less positive.

Remote or Isolated Power Supply:

Supplies power where grid access is unavailable and acts as the primary source of power.

Backup Power (Emergency Generation):

Provides electricity when the main grid fails and automatically or manually starts during outages.

Advantage of Synchronous Generator Operating Alone: Reliable Backup Power

Critical in emergency systems (hospitals, data centers) during grid outages.

Disadvantage of Synchronous Generator Operating Alone: Sensitive to Load Changes

Voltage and frequency can fluctuate significantly with sudden load variations.

Purpose of Parallel Operation of AC Generators:

To ensure reliability, flexibility, and efficiency in power generation.

Requirement before connecting a generator in parallel:

Voltage, frequency, and phase must match precisely.

Paralleling Condition: The two generators…

They must have the same rms line voltages.

Use of Parallel Operation: Increased Reliability and Redundancy

Ensures overall system reliability and minimizes downtime.

Use of Parallel Operation: Load Sharing

Generators can share the load proportionally based on their capacity.

Disadvantage of Parallel Operation of AC Generators: Circulating Currents

Small mismatches in voltage or phase angle can cause unwanted currents to flow between generators, reducing efficiency and risking damage.

Synchronous Generator / Alternator:

Transforms mechanical energy into electrical energy at a specific voltage and frequency.

Use of Synchronous Generator Transients: Power System Protection

Detect and isolate faults quickly (e.g., short circuits, overloads) using transient signals.

Use of Synchronous Generator Transients: Post-Fault Diagnostics

Analyze transient waveforms to identify the cause of failures after a blackout or fault.

Synchronous Generator Transients:

Short-term electrical and mechanical disturbances caused by an abrupt change in operating conditions.

Rated frequency of the synchronous generator:

Depends on the power system with which the generator is attached.

Advantage of Synchronous Generator Ratings: Safe Operation

Define maximum limits (voltage, current, frequency, etc.), helping to avoid overheating, overloading, and damage.

Disadvantage of Synchronous Generator Ratings: Operational Limitations

Cannot exceed ratings without risking malfunction or failure.