Synchronouus MachinesElectrical Machines - 526-746
Synchronouus MachinesElectrical Machines - 526-746
Synchronouus MachinesElectrical Machines - 526-746
CHAPTER
Synchronous Generators
or Alternators 6
Chapter Objectives
After the completion of this unit, students/readers will be able to understand:
What are the basic principles on which working of synchronous machine depends ?
How emf is induced in a synchronous generator.
Why stationery armature and revolving field system is preferred for large synchronous
generators?
What is the function and material of different parts of a synchronous machine ?
Where and why synchronous generators of salient or non-salient pole type construction are
preferred.
How magnetic poles of synchronous machines are excited.
What are various types of windings used in synchronous machines, viz. single-phase and three-
phase, concentrated and distributed, single-layer and double-layer, full-pitched and short-pitched,
concentric, lap and wave winding?
What is the meaning of different terms used while preparing different winding schemes viz. coil,
coil pitch, pole pitch, electrical and mechanical angle, slot pitch, phase spread etc.
What are coil span and distribution factors and their significance.
Various factors on which induced emf in an alternator depends.
How revolving field in set-up in the stator core of a 3-phase wound machine
What is Ferrari’s principle and its importance?
Why the alternators are rated in kVA?
What is armature resistance and leakage reactance?
What is armature reaction and how it is affected by the type of load (resistive, inductive or
capacitive)?
What is the effect of armature reaction on the terminal voltage or induced emf of an alternator?
How to draw a simplified equivalent circuit of an alternator?
What is voltage regulation and how it is affected by the power factor of the load?
How to perform open-circuit and short-circuit test on a synchronous generator?
What is ampere-turn (or mmf) method for determining voltage regulation of a synchronous
generator?
What is zero power factor (or Potier method) of determining voltage regulation of a synchronous
generator?
What power is developed by a cylindrical synchronous generator?
Synchronous Generators or Alternators 501
Introduction
In an AC system voltage level can be increased or decreased (as per requirement) very easily with
the help of a transformer, therefore, this system is exclusively used for generation, transmission and
distribution of electric power. The mechanical power or energy is converted into electrical power
or energy with the help of an AC machine called alternator or synchronous generator. However,
when the same machine can be used to convert electrical power or energy into mechanical power
or energy, then it is known as a synchronous motor. Thus, the same machine can be operated as a
generator or as a motor and in general, it is called as a synchronous machine. In fact, it is a machine
which rotates only at synchronous speed (NS = 120 f/P) under all conditions. To understand the
construction, working and performance of the machine its study is divided into number of main
topics as chapters, to be followed.
In this chapter, the readers will go through various topics related to this machine when working
as a synchronous generator or alternator.
Fig. 6.5 (a to d) Generation of alternating emf, (e) Wave shape of alternating emf
504 Electrical Machines
Fig. 6.6 One cycle is produced when a coil passes through a pair of poles
N PN s
f= P ¥ s = cycles/s or Hz
2 60 120
(v) It is easier to build and properly balance high speed rotors when they carry the lighter field
system.
(vi) The weight of rotor is small when field system is provided on rotor and as such friction losses
are produced.
(vii) Better cooling system can be provided when the armature is kept stationary.
For a speed of 200 rpm (alternators coupled with water turbines) the diameter of the
machines is as large as 14 metre and length is only 1 metre. The salient pole type rotor
has the following important parts:
(a) Spider: Spider is made of cast iron to provide an easy path for the magnetic flux. It
is keyed to the shaft and at the outer surface, pole core and pole-shoe are keyed to it
[see Fig. 6.9(a)].
(b) Pole core and pole shoe: It is made of laminated sheet material [see Figs. 6.8
(b) and 6.9(b)]. Pole core provides least reluctance path for the magnetic field and pole
shoe distributes the field over the whole periphery uniformly to produce sinusoidal
wave form of the generated emf.
Fig. 6.9 (a) Spider Fig. 6.9 (b) Pole core pole shoe
(c) Field winding or Exciting winding: Field winding [see Fig. 6.8 (c)] is wound on the
former and then placed around the pole core. DC supply is given to it through slip
Synchronous Generators or Alternators 507
rings. When direct current flows through the field winding, it produces the required
magnetic field.
(d) Damper winding: At the outermost periphery, holes are provided [see Fig. 6.9 (b)] in
which copper bars are inserted and short-circuited at both the sides by rings forming
damper winding.
Generally, the segments on individual poles are joined together to form common rings
resulting in a short-circuited squirrel cage winding similar to that used in induction
machines with squirrel cage rotors. Salient pole machines are frequently provided with
a damper winding on the rotor to damp rotor oscillations during transient-conditions
and to facilitate smooth operation under unbalanced load conditions.
Fig. 6.10 Salient pole type alternator mounted vertically at hydro-electric power plant (half-sectional view)
At hydro-electric power plants, usually, salient pole type alternators are placed with
their shafts in vertical position, as shown in Fig. 6.10.
(ii) Non-salient pole type rotor: A non-salient pole alternator is shown in Fig. 6.11. In this
case, there are no projected poles but the poles are formed by the current flowing through
508 Electrical Machines
the rotor (exciting) winding. Non-salient pole type construction is suited for the high
speeds. The steam turbines rotate at a high speed (3000 rpm). When these turbines are
used as prime-mover for this machine working as a generator, a small number of poles
are required for given frequency. Hence, these machines have smaller diameter and larger
length. Non salient pole type rotors have the following parts:
(a) Rotor core: Rotor core is made of silicon steel stampings. It is keyed to the shaft. At
the outer periphery slots are cut in which exciting coils are placed. It provides an easy
path to the magnetic flux.
(b) Rotor winding or Exciting winding: It is placed in rotor slots and current is passed
through the winding in such a way that poles are formed according to the requirement
(see Fig. 6.12).
Fig. 6.11 Non-salient pole type alternator Fig. 6.12 Non-salient pole type rotor
6.8.1 DC Exciters
This is a conventional method of exciting the field windings of synchronous generators. In this method,
three machines namely pilot exciter, main exciter and the main 3-phase alternator are mechanically
coupled and are therefore, driven by the same shaft. The pilot exciter is a DC shunt generator feeding
the field winding of a main exciter. The main exciter is a separately-excited DC generator which
provides the necessary current to the field winding of the main alternator through brushes and slip
rings as shown in Fig. 6.13.
This conventional method of excitation suffers from cooling and maintenance problems associated
with slip rings, brushes and commutator with the higher rating alternators. The modern excitation
systems have been developed by eliminating the sliding contacts and brushes. This has led to develop
static and brushless-excitation systems.
510 Electrical Machines
While initiating the process of static excitation, first of all, field winding is switched on to the
battery bank to establish field current in the alternator. The alternator speed is adjusted to rated
speed. When the output voltage from alternator is built up sufficiently, the alternator field windings is
Synchronous Generators or Alternators 511
disconnected from battery bank and is switched on to the thyristor bridge output. Sufficient protection
devices are installed in the static excitation scheme for any possible fault in the excitation system.
The advantages of static excitation are as follows:
1. Its response time is very small about 20 m sec.
2. It eliminates the exciter windage loss and commutator, bearing and winding maintenance.
3. As the excitation energy is taken from alternator terminals itself, the excitation voltage is directly
proportional to alternator’s speed. This improves the overall system performance.
The base excitation is controlled by an input setting to the thyristor gating circuits. This control
signal is derived from the PMG via a regulated DC supply, which also serves the regulator logic
circuitry. The regulator controls excitation by supplying a buck-boost control signal, which adds
algebraically to the base setting. The regulator elements also comprise of solid state circuits.
This excitation system has a short time constant and a response time of less than 0.1 second.
512 Electrical Machines
Q.4. What can be the maximum speed of synchronous machines operating at 50 Hz?
Ans. 3000 rpm, since minimum number of poles can be 2 and Ns = 120f = 120 ¥ 50 = 3000 rpm .
P 2
Q.5. Which type of rotor is used in high speed alternators?
Ans. Non-salient pole type rotors are used in high speed alternators.
Q.6. Mention the major advantages and disadvantages of salient pole type rotor construction.
Ans. Advantages:
1. These are cheaper in cost in comparison to non-salient pole type rotor construction.
2. They provide more space to accommodate field winding
Disadvantages:
These cannot be operated at high speeds due to heavy mechanical stresses.
Q.7. Where do you suggest to apply salient pole type of alternators and non-salient pole type of
alternators.
Ans. (i) Salient pole type alternators are operated at low speeds and are coupled with water turbines at
hydro-electric power plants and with diesel engines at diesel power plants. These machines have
large number of poles, larger diameter and smaller length.
(ii) Non-salient pole type alternators are operated at high speeds and are coupled with steam turbines
at thermal power plants. These machines have less number of poles, smaller diameter and larger
length.
Q.8. Why are the pole core and pole shoes laminated?
Ans. To reduce eddy current losses.
Synchronous Generators or Alternators 513
Q.11. What are the different methods by which excitation is provided in synchronous machines ?
Ans. 1. By DC exciters
2. By static excitation system.
3. By brushless excitation system.
emf induced in the short pitch winding is less than that. However, short pitch winding is preferred
over full pitch winding because of the following reasons:
(i) It decreases the length at the end-connections and thus amount of copper required is saved.
(ii) It reduces the slot reactance and thus improves the wave shape of the generated emf, i.e., the
generated emf can be made to approximately sinusoidal more easily by properly chording
the winding.
(iii) It reduces or eliminates distorting harmonics in the wave form of generated emf
The only disadvantage of short pitch winding is that a few more turns are used to obtain the
same voltage as it would be induced in full pitch winding.
5. Concentric (or spiral), Lap and Wave windings: When each group of coils under a pole is
arranged into a sort of concentric shape i.e., when the current flow is traced through one such
properly connected set of coils that the conductors seem to form a spiral around a portion of
the core (see Fig. 6.16) the winding is called concentric or chain or spiral winding. This type
of winding scheme is preferred for large diameter, low speed synchronous machines.
In the alternators, the lap and wave windings give the same emf as long as the other conditions
are the same. In case of lap winding as shown in Fig. 6.17, coils or coil sides overlap the other
consecutively and connections are made. Whereas in wave winding, as shown in Fig. 6.18 the
coils are always forward connected. The connections of a lap winding are simpler to that of the
wave winding, therefore lap winding is exclusively used.
(iv) Coil pitch or coil span: The distance between two active sides of a coil is called coil span. It
is expressed in terms of number of slots or electrical degrees. Refer to Fig. 6.20.
(v) Slot pitch: The distance between centre points (or similar points) of two consecutive slots or
teeth is called slot pitch. It is expressed in electrical degrees. Refer to Fig. 6.20.
Example 6.1
Draw a developed winding diagram for a 4 pole,
1-phase synchronous machine when (i) the winding is
single layer concentrated in one slot (ii) the winding is
single layer and distributed in three slots per pole.
Solution:
(i) The developed winding diagram is shown in Fig.
6.21.
(ii) The developed winding diagram is shown in Fig.
Fig. 6.21 Single layer concentrated winding
6.22.
Synchronous Generators or Alternators 517
Example 6.2
Draw a single-layer, full-pitch, distributed lap-winding for a 3-phase, 4-pole, 24-slot armature.
Solution:
T1 – 1 – 7 – 2 – 8 – 13 – 19 – 14 – 20 – T1c – Phase-I
T2 – 5 – 11 – 6 – 12 – 17 – 23 – 18 – 24 – T2c– Phase-II
T3 – 9 – 15 – 10 – 16 – 21 – 3 – 22 – 4 – T3c – Phase-III
Example 6.3
Draw a double-layer, full-pitch, distributed lap-winding (for one-phase only) for a 3-phase, 4-pole,
48-slot armature of an alternator. Give the winding scheme for all the three phases:
Solution:
Example 6.4
Draw a double-lay, short-pitch (5/6),distributed lap-winding (for one-phase only) for a 3-phase,
4-pole, 48 slot armature of an alternator. Also give the winding scheme for all the three phases.
Solution:
Pole pitch = 48 = 12 slot
4
No. of slots/pole/phase = 48 = 4 slot
4¥3
Synchronous Generators or Alternators 519
Fig. 6.24 Developed winding diagram of a double-layer, full-pitch, distributed lap-winding for a 3-phase, 4-pole, 48-slot armature
Fig. 6.25 Develop winding diagram of a double-layer, short-pitch (5/6), distributed lap-winding for a 3-phase, 4-pole, 48-slot armature.
Synchronous Generators or Alternators 521
When three windings are placed on the armature and three emfs are obtained at the output which are
displaced by an angle of 120 degree electrical, the winding is called three-phase winding.
Let ‘e’ be the induced emf in each of the two sides of the same coil. For a full pitch winding the
emf induced in two sides of the coil i.e., OA and AB are 180 electrical degrees apart as shown in Fig.
27. However, when the winding is short pitched by an angle E electrical degrees, the emf induced in
the two sides of the coil are OA and AC, i.e., (180 – E) electrical degrees apart of shown in Fig. 6.27.
For a full pitch winding,
Total induced emf in the coil = OA + AB = e + e = 2e
522 Electrical Machines
The emfs induced in the conductors lying in two adjacent slots is similar in wave shape and
magnitude but there is a phase difference between them. This phase difference is equal to the angular
displacement between two adjacent slots, i.e., slot pitch.
For the winding scheme considered here,
AB = BC = CD = DE
= emf induced in each coil side.
AE = Vector sum of emfs of m coils.
A, B, C, D and E are the points laying on the circle of radius r having centre at point ‘O’. Drop a
perpendicular on AB at F and on AE at G from point ‘O’.
Now AF = FB
and AB = AF + FB = 2AF
In right angle triangle OAF,
AF = r sin D/2
? AB = 2r sin D/2
Total induced emf in the coil group when all the coil sides are concentrated in one slot.
ea = Arithmetic sum of the induced emf in each coil
= AB + BC + CD + DE = 4 AB
= m × AB = 2m r sin a
2
Now AG = GE
and AE = AG + GE = 2GE
In right angle triangle OGE,
GE = r sin ma
2
? AE = 2GE = 2r sin ma
2
Total induced emf in the coil group when the winding is distributed in number of slots to the
induced emf in the coil group when the winding is concentrated in one slot is called a distribution
factor or breadth factor and it is generally denoted by Kd . It is always less than unity.
524 Electrical Machines
ev 2r sin ma sin ma
? Distribution factor, Kd = = 2 = 2
ea 2 mr sin a m sin a
2 2
( ) =E
eb1b2 = Em sin w t - 2p
3 m sin (Zt – 120°)
= 4 × I × Tph × PN = 4 I f Tph
120
R.M.S. values of emf induced per phase,
Eph = Average value × form factor
Eph = 4 I f Tph × 1·11
= 4·44 I f Tph volt
Taking into consideration the coil span factor (KC) and distribution factor (Kd) of the winding.
Actual emf induced per phase
Eph = 4·44 Kc Kd I f Tph volt
Suppression of Harmonics
Harmonics can be suppressed or eliminated by various methods as mentioned below:
(i) By well distributing the armature winding.
(ii) By using short-pitched winding.
(iii) By skewing the poles by one slot-pitch.
(iv) By using fractional slot winding.
(v) By using slightly larger air-gap length to increase the reluctance.
Example 6.5
What will be the number of poles of a 3-phase, 50 Hz synchronous generator running at a speed of
187.5 rpm. Which type of prime mover would you suggest for this machine?
Synchronous Generators or Alternators 527
Solution:
Frequency, f = 50 Hz
Speed, Ns = 187·5 rpm
= 120 ¥ 50 = 32 (Ans.)
120 f
P=
NS 187 ◊ 5
Since the speed of the synchronous generator is very low the prime-mover would be a water turbine
(hydraulic-turbine). For such a large number of poles the machine would be a salient-pole type.
Example 6.6
The armature coils of a 3-phase, 4-pole, 24-slot alternator are short pitched by one slot. Determine
(i) distribution factor and (ii) pitch factor.
Solution:
No. of phases = 3; No. of poles, P = 4
No. of slots/pole/phase, m = 24 = 2
4¥3
sin ma sin 2 ¥ 30
? Distribution factor, Kd = 2 = 2 = 0·9659 (Ans.)
m sin a 2 sin 30
2 2
Angle by which the coil is short pitched, E = D = 30°
Solution:
No. of poles, P = 4; No. of slots = 36
No. of phases = 3; Coil span = 8 slots (short pitch winding)
No. of slots/pole/phase, m = 36 = 3
4¥3
sin ma sin 3 ¥ 20
Distribution factor, Kd = 2 = 2 = 0·9598 (Ans.)
m sin a 3 sin 20
2 2
528 Electrical Machines
b
Pitch factor, Kc = cos = cos 20 = 0·9848 (Ans.)
2 2
Example 6.8
A 3-phase, 20-pole, 50Hz alternator has single-layer winding with full-pitch coils. The coils are
connected in 60° phase group and each coil is having six turns. If the flux per pole is 0.025 Wb,
determine the rms value of emf induced per phase.
Solution:
No. of poles, P = 20; Frequency, f = 50 Hz
No. of slots = 180; Flux per pole, I = 0·025 Wb
No. of turns/coil = 6; Coil span factor, Kc = 1 (full-pitch winding)
Winding is single layer, full-pitched, thee-phase
sin ma sin 3 ¥ 20
Distribution factor, Kd = 2 = 2 = 0 ◊ 9598
m sin a 3 sin 20
2 2
No. of turns per phase, Tph = 180 ¥ 6 = 360
3
Induced emf/phase, Eph = 4·44 Kc Kd I f Tph
= 4·44 × 1 × 0·9598 × 0·025 × 50 × 360 = 1917·7 V (Ans.)
Example 6.9
Calculate the no-load terminal voltage of a 3-phase, 8-pole, star connected alternator running at
750 rpm having following data:
Sinusoidally distributed flux per pole = 55 m Wb
Total No. of armature slots = 72
Number of conductors/slot = 10
Distribution factor = 0·96
Assume full pitch windings.
Synchronous Generators or Alternators 529
Solution:
No. of poles, P = 8; Speed, Ns = 750 rpm
Flux, I = 55 × 10 –3 Wb; No. of slots = 72
No. of conductors/slot = 10; Distribution factor, Kd = 0·96
For full pitch winding,
Coil span factor, Kc= 1
Distribution factor is given, therefore, it is not to be calculated
= 8 ¥ 750 = 50 Hz
PN s
Supply frequency, f =
120 120
Emf induced per phase, Eph = 4·44 K c Kd f I Tph
= 4·44 × 1 × 0·96 × 50 × 55 × 10 –3 × 120 = 1406·6 V
Since the alternator is star connected;
No-load terminal voltage, EL = 3 E ph = 3 ¥ 1406 ◊ 6 = 2436·3 V (Ans.)
Example 6.10
Calculate the voltage per phase for a 3-phase 1500 rpm, 4-pole alternator having a double layer
winding with 16 turns per coil. The slots per pole per phase are 8 and the coil span is 20 slots. The
phase spread is 60° and the flux per pole is 25·8 × 10 –3 weber.
Solution:
No. of poles, P = 4
Speed, Ns = 1500 rpm
No. of slots/pole/phase, m = 8
Coil span = 20 slots
Flux per pole, I = 25·8 × 10 –3 Wb
Pole pitch = No. of slots/pole = m × No. of phases = 8 × 3 = 24
No. of slots by which coil is short pitched = pole pitch – coil span = 24 – 20 = 4 slots
sin ma sin 8 ¥ 7 ◊ 5
Distribution factor, Kd = 2 = 2 = 0 ◊ 5 = 0 ◊ 9556
m sin a 8 sin 7 ◊ 5 0 ◊ 5232
2 2
Supply frequency, f = PNs = 1 ¥ 1500 = 50 Hz
120 120
For double layer winding:
No. of conductors/slot = 16 + 16 = 32 (double layer)
No. of slots/phase × 32
No. of turns/phase, Tph =
2
m × No. of poles × 32 8 ¥ 4 ¥ 32
= = = 512
2 2
Emf induced per phase: Eph = 4·44 Kc Kd f I Tph
= 4·44 × 0·9659 × 0·9556 × 50 × 25·8 × 10 –3 × 512
= 2706·77 V (Ans.)
Example 6.11
What will be the rms value of emf induced per phase in 3-phase, 6-pole, star-connected alternator
having a stator with 90 slots and 8 conductors per slot? The flux per pole is 4u10 –2 Wb and it runs
at a speed of 1000 rpm. Assume full-pitched coils and sinusoidal flux distribution.
Solution:
No. of poles, P = 6; No. of phases = 3 (star connected)
No. of slots = 90; No. of conductors/slot = 8
Speed, Ns = 1000 rpm Flux per pole, I = 4 × 10 –2 Wb
Coil span factor, Kc = 1 (coil is full pitched)
sin ma sin 5 ¥ 12
Distribution factor, Kd = 2 = 2 = 0 ◊ 9567
m sin a 5 sin 12
2 2
= 6 ¥ 1000 = 50 Hz
PN s
Frequency, f =
120 120
Generated emf/phase, Eph = 4·44 Kc Kd I f Tph
= 4·44 × 1 × 0·9567 × 4 × 10 –2 × 50 × 120
= 1019·4 V (Ans.)
Synchronous Generators or Alternators 531
Example 6.12
Determine the useful flux per pole required to develop 6600 V across the terminals of a 3-phase,
star connected, 50 Hz, 4-pole alternator having 60 slots with 2 conductors per slot. The coils are
short pitched such that if one coil side lies in slot No.1 and the other lies in slot No.13. Assume a
double-layer winding.
Solution:
Number of poles, P = 4; Frequency, f = 50 Hz
No. of slots = 60; No. of conductors/slot = 2
Terminal voltage, EL = 6600 V
= 3810 ◊ 5
4 ◊ 44 ¥ 0 ◊ 951 ¥ 0 ◊ 9567 ¥ 50 ¥ 20
= 0·9433 Wb (Ans.)
532 Electrical Machines
Example 6.13
A three-phase, 16 pole, 50 Hz star connected alternator has 144 slots and 10 conductors per slot.
The flux per pole is 2·48 × 10 –2 weber sinusoidally distributed. The coil pitch is 2 slots short of full
pitch. Find (i) speed (ii) line emf
Solution:
No. of poles, P = 16; Frequency, f = 50 Hz
No. of slots = 144; Flux/pole, I = 2·48 × 10 –2 Wb
No. of conductors/slot = 10 (3-phase, star connected)
Coil is short pitched by 2 slots
120 f 120 ¥ 50
Synchronous speed, Ns = = = 375 rpm (Ans.)
P 16
Slot pitch, D = 180∞ = 180∞ ¥ 16 = 20∞ (elect .)
No. of slots/pole 144
Angle by which the coil is short pitched,
E = 2 × v = 2 × 20° = 40°
Example 6.14
A 10 MVA, 11 kV, 50 Hz, three-phase, star-connected alternator is driven at 300 rev/min. The stator
winding is housed in 360 slots and has 6 conductors per slot. The coils spanning five-sixth of a pole
pitch. Calculate:
(i) The sinusoidally distributed flux/pole required to give a line voltage of 11 kV on open circuit;
and
(ii) the full load current per conductor.
Solution:
Rated output = 10 MVA = 10 × 106 VA
Line voltage, EL = 11 kV = 11 × 103V
Synchronous Generators or Alternators 533
= 120 ¥ 50 = 20
120 f
No. of poles, P =
Ns 300
sin ma sin 6 ¥ 10
Distribution factor, Kd = 2 = 2 = 0 ◊ 5 = 0 ◊ 9561
m sin a 6 sin 10 0 ◊ 5229
2 2
No. of turns/phase, Tph = 360 ¥ 6 = 360
2¥3
3
Induced, emf/phase, Eph = L = 11 ¥ 10 = 6350 ◊ 8 V
E
3 3
Now, Eph = 4·44 Kc Kd f I Tph
E ph
? Flux/pole, I =
4.44 ¥ K c K d fTph
= 6350 ◊ 8
4 ◊ 44 ¥ 0 ◊ 9698 ¥ 0 ◊ 9561 ¥ 50 ¥ 360
= 86 m Wb (Ans.)
Solution:
Line voltage, EL = 6600 V; No. of poles, P = 20
Speed, Ns = 300 rpm; No. of slot = 180
Coil span = 160° elect.; Flux per pole, I = 80 × 10 –3 Wb
= 20 ¥ 300 = 50 Hz
PN s
Frequency, f =
120 120
534 Electrical Machines
sin ma sin 3 ¥ 20
Distribution factor, Kd = 2 = 2
m sin a 3 sin 20
2 2
= 0 ◊ 5 = 0 ◊ 9598
0 ◊ 5209
E
Induced emf per phase, Eph = L = 6600 = 3810 ◊ 5 V
3 3
Now, Eph = 4·44 Kc Kd f I Tph
E ph
? No. of turns/phase, Tph =
4 ◊ 44 K c K d f f
= 3810 ◊ 5 = 227
4 ◊ 44 ¥ 0 ◊ 9548 ¥ 0 ◊ 9598 ¥ 50 ¥ 80 ¥ 10 -3
No. of conductors in series per phase, Zph = 2 Tph = 2 × 227 = 454 (Ans.)
2. Find the breadth factor for 3-Iwinding with 2 slots per pole per phase. (Ans. 0.96)
3. A star connected, three-phase 4 pole, 50 Hz alternator has a single layer winding in 24 stator slots. There
are 50 turns in each coil and the flux per pole is 5 mega lines. Find the open circuit line voltage.
(Ans. 3715 V )
4. The field system of a 50 Hz alternator has sinusoidal flux per pole of 0.075 Wb. Find emf generated in one
turn of the machine if the winding has a span of 150° (Electrical). (Ans. 16 V )
5. The air gap flux of a 12 pole, 3- Ialternator is 0.058 weber per pole and is distributed sinusoidally over the
pole. The stator has 2slots per pole per phase and 8 conductors per slot. The winding is a double layer
winding with a coil span of 135° electrical apart. Find the voltage generated per phase at no-load when
the machine runs at 500 rpm. (Ans. 1175 V )
Synchronous Generators or Alternators 535
Q.2. What is the relation between electrical and mechanical angle of an electrical machine.
sin ma
Distribution factor, Kd = 2
m sin a
2
where, m is the phase spread = No. of slots/pole/phase and
2 2
Ê 3 ˆ Ê 3 ˆ Ê 3 ˆÊ 3 ˆ 1
or IR = ÁË 2 fm ˜¯ + ÁË 2 fm ˜¯ + 2 ÁË 2 fm ˜¯ ÁË 2 fm ˜¯ ¥ 2
or IR = 1·5 Im
At another instant t 2, where T = 90°, the direction of flow of current in coil-side a is inward and
in b and c is outward. Whereas, the flow of current in the other sides of the coils is opposite, i.e.,
in ac it is outward and in bc and cc it is inward as shown in Fig. 6.33(a). The resultant field and its
direction Fm at this instant is shown in Fig. 6.33(a). The resultant field is rotated in anti-clockwise
direction (i.e., the direction in which the supply sequence is applied to the winding, here the supply 1,
2, 3 is given to the coils a, b and c respectively) through an angle I = 90° from its previous position.
Conclusion
Hence, it is concluded that when a three-phase supply is given to a three-phase wound stator of an
induction motor or synchronous motor, resultant field Fm of magnitude 1·5 Im is produced which
rotates in space at a constant speed called synchronous speed (Ns = 120 f /P). The direction of rotation
of the resultant field depends upon the sequence in which supply in given to the stator winding.
Fig. 6.35 Two-vectors revolving in opposite direction and its wave diagram
Let at start, the two components are vertically upwards i.e., along the vertical axis and the resultant
field is +Im. When Z = 90°, the resultant field is zero as shown in Fig. 6.35(ii), whereas when I =
180° the resultant field is – Im and so on.
To determine the value of resultant field at any instant (say after t seconds), the two components
make an angle I = Zt with the reference (vertical) axis
Then, the resultant field at that instant,
I = Im cos Zt
or IR = Im cos T
which is an alternating field.
540 Electrical Machines
Hence, an alternating field can be represented by two components of field having half the magnitude
rotating in opposite direction at a constant speed, called synchronous speed.
According to Ferrari’s Principle, an alternating field produced by each phase (coil) can be
represented by two components of field each having half the magnitude rotating in opposite direction
at a constant speed, called synchronous speed.
Considering a coil a-ac having an axis OA. When an alternating supply is given to the coil, an
alternating field (I) is produced by the coil as shown in Fig. 6.36(a). At an instant t1, the two components
of the field 1 and 2 each of magnitude Im /2 rotating in opposite direction are represented along the
axis of the coil as shown in Fig. 6.36(b). At an instant t 2, the two components of the field are rotated
through 90° and their position is shown in Fig. 6.36(c). Similarly at an instant t 3 the position of the
two components is shown in Fig. 6.36(d).
The flux produced by coil b – bc will become positive maximum (+Im) after an angular rotation
of 120 electrical degrees. Therefore, one of the component (3) of the field produced by this coil,
rotating in anticlockwise direction, at this instant is along the axis of a – ac i.e., OA. Whereas, the
other component (4), rotating in clockwise direction is along the axis of coil c – cc i.e., OC.
The flux produced by the coil c – cc will become positive maximum (+Im) after an angular rotation
of 240 electrical degrees. Therefore, one of the component (5), rotating in anticlockwise direction,
at this instant is along the axis of coil a – ac i.e., OA. Whereas, the other component (6), rotating in
clockwise direction is along the axis of coil b – bc i.e., OB.
The resultant of the three components 2, 4 and 6, which are rotating in clockwise direction and
displaced by an angle of 120 electrical degrees is zero. The resultant of the remaining three components
542 Electrical Machines
1, 3 and 5 is 1·5 Im which is rotating in anticlockwise direction. It is the direction in which the supply
is given to the three phases (coils) of the machine.
Conclusion
Hence, it is concluded that when a three-phase supply is given to the stator of a three-phase wound
machine, a resultant field of magnitude 1 · 5 Im is produced which rotates in space at a constant speed,
called synchronous speed. The direction of rotating of the resultant field depends upon the sequence
in which supply is given to the three phases (or coils).
reactance of the machine, which is why, many times, its voltage drop effect is neglected. Heavy
copper losses occur in the machine because of armature resistance.
The total leakage flux which links with the armature winding (conductors) gives rise to inductance.
The magnitude of the inductance is given as
fN
L= henry
I
where I is the leakage flux in weber, N is the number of turns and I is the armature current. This
inductance L, when multiplied by Z gives the leakage reactance X L . Hence,
X L = ZL = 2Sf L ohm
A voltage drop (IX L) occurs in the winding because of this reactance. This voltage drop is in
quadrature to the current vector.
According, E = V + I Z = V + I ( R + jX L )
544 Electrical Machines
The position of the main magnetic field Fm produced by the exciting field coils is shown in Fig.
6.40(a) as well as Fig. 6.40 (b). When a load of unity power factor is connected to the alternator,
current flows through the coils which is in phase with the induced emf as shown in Fig. 6.40(b)
and their wave diagrams are shown in Fig. 6.40 (c) (i.e., iaac, ibbc and iccc). A resultant armature field
Fa is produced by the current carrying armature conductors of magnitude 1·5 Im (where Im is the
maximum value of flux produced by the current flowing through each phase) in the direction as
shown in Fig. 6.40(b). The two fields mmfs. are shown vectorially in Fig. 6.40(d). The armature field
Fa is perpendicular of the main magnetic field Fm and produces cross-magnetising effect. It is also
clear from the position of the two fields that armature field Fa lags behind the main magnetic field
Fm by 90° causing the same effect as it is being caused by a pure inductance.
Thus, for a non-inductive load (at unit p.f.) the effect of armature reaction is cross-magnetising
i.e., it distorts the main field.
Synchronous Generators or Alternators 545
When a pure inductive load at zero p.f. lagging is connected to the alternator, currents will flow
through the coils, which lag behind their respective induced emfs by 90° electrical. The wave diagram
for the phase representing coil aac is shown in Fig. 6.41(c).
Accordingly, the direction of flow of current in various coil is shown in Fig. 6.41(b). A resultant
armature field Fa of magnitude 1·5 Im is produced by the current carrying armature conductors in
the direction as shown in Fig. 6.41(b). The two fields (mmfs.) are shown vectorially in Fig. 6.41(d).
The armature field Fa acts in opposite direction to that of main magnetic field Im and produces
demagnetising effect. It is also clear from the position of the two fields that armature field Fa lags
behind the main magnetic field Fm by 180° i.e., it lags by 90° because of a pure inductive load and
90° because of armature reaction.
Thus, with a pure inductive load (at zero p.f. lagging) the effect of armature reaction is
demagnetising i.e., it weakness the main field.
fields that the armature field Fa is in phase with the main magnetic field Fm. In fact, the armature
field was to lead the main field by 90° due capacitive load but it falls back to its original position due
to armature reaction. Hence, the armature field acts in phase with the main field.
Thus, with a pure capacitive load (at zero p.f. leading) the effect of armature reaction is
magnetising i.e., it strengthens the main field.
Conclusion
The above explanation reveals that
1. The armature reaction flux (Ia = 1.5 Iarm) is constant in magnitude and rotates at synchronous
speed.
2. When generator supplies a load at unity pf, the armature reaction is cross-magnetising.
3. When generator supplies a load at zero pf lagging, the armature reaction in demagnetising.
4. When generator supplies a load at zero pf leading, the armature reaction is magnetising.
5. In all the cases, if the armature-reaction flux is assumed to act independently of the main field
flux, it induces voltage in each phase which lags the respective phase current by 90°. Hence
armature reaction causes an armature reactance drop.
When a non inductive load is connected to the alternator, current (I) flows through the armature
conductors which is in phase with E 0 and produces an armature field Fa or Ia which lags behind the
main field by 90°. An emf Ea is induced by this field which lags behind the armature field by 90° as
shown in Fig. 6.44. Thus a resultant emf E is obtained across the armature. ( E = E0 + Ea )
Fig. 6.43 Phasor diagram at no-load Fig. 6.44 Phasor diagram for unity p.f.
When a pure inductive load is connected to the alternator, a current (I) flows through the armature
conductors which lags behind E 0 by 90°. This current produces armature field Ia which further
induces an emf Ea in the armature lagging behind Ia by 90° as shown in Fig. 6.45. Thus a resultant
emf (E = E 0 – Ea) is obtained across the armature.
When a pure capacitive load is connected to the alternator, a current (I) flows through the armature
conductors which leads the emf E 0 by 90°. This current produces armature field Ia which further
induces emf Ea in the armature lagging behind Ia by 90° but in phase with E 0 as shown in Fig. 6.46.
Thus, a resultant emf (E = E 0 + Ea) is obtained across the armature.
Fig. 6.45 Phasor diagram for zero lagging pf Fig. 6.46 Phasor diagram for zero loading
Conclusion
From the above discussion, it is concluded that E 0 is always in phase quadrature with the load current
I and proportional to it. It, therefore, resembles with the emf induced in an inductive reactance so that
the effect of armature reaction is exactly as if the stator winding has a reactance Xa = Ea /I. Whereas
Xa is termed as armature reaction reactance.
548 Electrical Machines
Thus, an armature reaction produces a reactance effect in the armature winding called armature
reaction reactance.
Synchronous impedance: The vector sum of armature resistance and synchronous reactance is
known as Synchronous impedance.
It is generally represented by Zs.
Z S = R + X S = R + jX S
or ZS = R 2 + X S2
i.e., Z S = R + jX s or ZS = R 2 + X S2
The simplified equivalent circuit is shown in Fig. 6.47(b), where Xs is the synchronous reactance.
From circuit diagram:
E0 = V + IZ s
Phasor Diagram: From the simplified equivalent circuit shown in Fig. 6.47(b), phasor diagram
of an alternator can be drawn. The phasor diagram depends upon the type of load. The load may be
non-inductive, inductive or capacitive.
Synchronous Generators or Alternators 549
The phasor diagram for non-inductive, inductive and capacitive load are shown in Fig. 6.48(a), (b)
and (c) respectively. While drawing phasor diagram, following steps are followed:
(i) Terminal voltage V is taken as the reference vector.
(ii) Load current I is drawn in phase with voltage vector V for non-inductive load. For inductive
load, it is drawn so that it lags behind the voltage vector by an angle I. Whereas for capacitive
load it leads the voltage vector by an angle I. Where I is the power factor angle.
(iii) Draw voltage drop vector IR parallel to current vector from point A.
(iv) Draw voltage drop vector IXS from point B perpendicular to vector AB since it is in quadrature
to current vector.
(v) Join point O and C, where OC is the emf E 0 which is induced due to the main field Im or the
terminal voltage at no-load and is the vector sum of V, IR and IXS.
(V | IR ) | ( IX s )
2 2
or E0 =
(ii) For inductive load (lagging p.f.): Considering Fig. 6.49(b), from the right angle triangle ODC,
we get,
OC2 = OD2 + DC2
or OC2 = (OE + ED)2 + (DB + BC)2
or OC2 = (OE + AB)2 + (EA + BC)2
or E02 = (V cos I + IR)2 + (V sin I + IXs)2
(iii) For capacitive load (leading p.f.): Considering Fig. 6.49(c), from the right angle triangle ODC,
we get,
OC2 = OD2 + DC2
or OC2 = (OE + ED)2 + (DB – BC)2
or OC2 = (OE + AB)2 + (EA – BC)2
or E02 = (V cos I + IR)2 + (V sin I – IXs)2
or E0 = (V cos f + IR )2 + (V sin f - IX s )2
The voltage regulation may be zero, when load and its pf may be such that
*IR cos I = IXs sin I
The voltage regulation of a synchronous generator is usually much high than that of power
transformer because of large amount of voltage drop in synchronous reactance.
To determine synchronous impedance, open-circuit and short circuit tests are performed and to
determine synchronous reactance, armature resistance is measured by ammeter-voltmeter method.
By using these parameters, the regulation of the alternator can be determined at any load.
Fig. 6.50 Circuit diagram for open circuit test on single and three phase alternators
Note: In case of three-phase star-connected alternator, to plot the curve phase value of the terminal
voltage E = EL / 3 is to be considered.
(ii) Short circuit test: To perform short circuit test, the terminals of the alternator are short circuited
by a thick strip or an ammeter as shown in Fig. 6.51. And its rotor is rotated by the prime-mover
at synchronous speed. The field current If is gradually increased and the short circuit current
Isc is recorded for every change in the field current with the help of ammeter connected across
the alternator terminals. A graph is plotted taking If along abscissa and Isc along with ordinate
called short circuit characteristics (S.C.C.). The S.C.C. curve so obtained is shown in Fig. 6.52
which is almost a straight line.
It should be noted that both the O.C.C. and S.C.C. curves are drawn on a common field current
If as shown in Fig. 6.52.
554 Electrical Machines
Fig. 6.51 Circuit diagram for short circuit test on single and three phase alternators
The value of synchronous impedance is not constant. Its value is slightly high at low magnetic
saturation. An approximate graph of Zs against field current. If is drawn by the dotted line as shown
in Fig. 6.52.
Note: The value of synchronous impedance is usually determined at the field current which provides
the rated emf of the machine
Xs = ( Z s )2 - ( R )2
Imp. Note: In case of three-phase, star connected alternators, DC source, ammeter and voltmeter
are connected across the terminals, then the measured resistance comes out to be the resistance
of two phases.
I f1
Short-circuit ratio, SCR = = OA = AE = AE = 1
I f2 OD DC AB AB / AE
Per unit voltage on open-circuit
Where AB = = Xs
AE Corresponding per unit currennt on short-circuit
? SCR = 1
Xs
Thus, SCR is just reciprocal of per unit synchronous reactance XS of the machine. The value of
synchronous reactance depends upon saturated conditions of the machine whereas, SCR is specific
and defined at rated voltage.
Significance of SCR
Smaller is the value of SCR, larger is the value of synchronous reactance which limits the short circuit
current to smaller value. But it causes difficulty during parallel operation of the machines owing to
smaller value of synchronising power.
Larger value of SCR increases the stability of the machine and improves its voltage regulation.
Usually, the SCR of a high speed non-salient pole alternators lies between 0.5 and 0.75 whereas
it lies between 1.0 and 1.5 for low speed salient pole type alternators.
Therefore, the salient pole type alternators are more stable than non-salient pole type alternators.
Example 6.16
A 1-phase 60 kVA, 220 V, 50 Hz, alternator has an effective armature leakage reactance of 0·07
ohm and negligible armature resistance. Calculate the voltage induced in the armature when the
alternator is delivering rated current at a load power factor of 0·7 lagging.
Solution:
Here, Rated power = 60 kVA = 60 × 103 VA
Terminal voltage, V = 220 V
Leakage reactance, X L = 0·07 :
Load power factor, cos I = 0·7 lag; sin I = sin cos–1 0·7 = 0·7141
3
Full load current, I = 60 ¥ 10 = 272 ◊ 72 A
220
Example 6.17
A single-phase 100 kVA, 600V, 50 Hz alternator has effective armature resistance and leakage
reactance of 0·072 and 0·18 ohm respectively. At rated terminal voltage and kVA load, determine
internal induced emf at (i) unit p.f. (ii) 0·75 p.f. lagging; (iii) 0·75 p.f. leading.
Solution:
Here, Rated power = 100 kVA = 100 × 103 VA; Terminal voltage, V = 600 V
Armature resistance, R = 0·072 ohm; Leakage reactance, X L = 0·18 ohm
100 ¥ 103
Rated current, I = = 166 ◊ 67 A
600
(i) When the p.f., cos I = 1; sin I = sin cos–1 1 = 0
= 612·73 V (Ans.)
(ii) When the p.f., cos I = 0·75 lagging; sin I = sin cos–1 0·75 = 0·6614
Example 6.18
A single-phase, 500 V, 50 Hz alternator produces a short-circuit current of 170 A and an open circuit
emf of 425 V when a field current of 15A passes through its field winding. If its armature has an
effective resistance of 0.2 ohm, determine its full-load regulation at unity pf and at 0.8 pf lagging.
Solution:
Here, Rated power = 50 kVA = 50 × 103 VA
Terminal voltage, V = 500 V; Armature resistance, R = 0·2 ohm
Short circuit current, Isc = 170 A; Open circuit emf, E = 425 V
E0 = (V cos f + IR )2 + ( IX S )2
Example 6.19
A three-phase star-connected alternator has an armature resistance of 0·1 ohm per phase. When
excited to 173·3 V line voltage and on short circuit the alternator gave 200 A. What should be the emf
(in line terms) the alternator must be excited to, in order to maintain a terminal potential difference
of 400 V with 100 A armature current at 0·8 power factor lagging?
Solution:
Here, open circuit emf (line value), EL = 173·3 V
Armature resistance per phase, R = 0·1 ohm
Short circuit current, Isc = 200 A
Terminal voltage (line value), VL = 400 V
Armature current, I = 100 A
VL
Terminal voltage/phase. V= = 400 = 231 V
3 3
Load p.f., cos I = 0·8; sin I = sin cos–1 0·8 = 0·6
No-load terminal voltage/phase.
= 70.4 V
No-load terminal voltage (line value) = 3 E0 = 3 ¥ 270 ◊ 3 = 468·4 V (Ans.)
Example 6.20
A three-phase star connected 1200 kVA, 3300 V, 50 Hz, alternator has armature resistance of 0·25
ohm per phase. A field current of 40 A produces a short circuit current of 200 A and an open circuit
emf of 1100 V between lines. Calculate regulation on full load 0·8 power factor lagging.
Solution:
Here, Rated power = 1200 kVA = 1200 × 103 VA
Terminal line voltage, VL = 3300 V (star connected)
Armature resistance, R = 0·25 :
At field current of 40 A;
Short circuit current, Isc = 200 A
= 2400 V
Synchronous Generators or Alternators 561
E0 - V
% Reg. = ¥ 100 = 2400 - 1905 ◊ 2 ¥ 100 = 25·98% (Ans.)
V 1905 ◊ 2
Example 6.21
A three-phase, star connected, 20 MVA, 11 kV, 50 Hz alternator produces a short-circuit current
equal to full-load current when a field current of 70 A passes through its field winding. The same
field current produces an emf of 1820 V (line to line) on open circuit. If the alternator has a resistance
between each pair of terminals as measured by DC is 0.16 ohm and the effective resistance is 1.5
times the ohmic resistance, what will be its full-load regulation at (i) 0.707 pf lagging and (ii) 0.8
pf leading.
Solution:
Here, Alternator is three-phase, star connected;
Rating of alternator = 20 MVA = 20 × 106 VA
Terminal voltage (line value), VL = 11000 V
Open circuit emf (line value), EL = 1820 V
Resistance between two terminals = 0·16 ohm
Synchronous reactance/phase, Xs = ( Z s )2 - ( R )2
= ( 0 ◊ 001)2 - ( 0 ◊ 12 )2 = 0·994 ohm
VL
Terminal voltage (phase value), V = = 11000 = 6351 V
3 3
(i) When p.f., cos I = 0·707 lagging; sin I = sin cos–1 0·707 = 0·707
No-load terminal voltage (phase value),
E0 = (V cos f + IR )2 + (V sin f + IX s )2
E0 - V
% Reg. = ¥ 100 = 7206 - 6351 ¥ 100 = 13·46% (Ans.)
V 6351
(ii) When p.f. cos I = 0·8 leading; sin I = 0·6
No-load terminal voltage (phase value),
E0 = (V cos f + IR )2 + (V sin f + IX s )2
Solution:
Rated power = 20 MVA = 20 × 106 VA
Line voltage, VL = 11 kV = 11000 V (three-phase connections)
At field current of 20 A;
No-load emf E(L) = rated voltage = 11000 V (line value)
At field current of 12 A;
Example 6.23
A three-phase, star-connected, 10 kVA, 230 V alternator has an armature resistance of 0.5 : per
phase and a synchronous reactance of 1.2 : per phase. Calculate the percent voltage regulation
at full load at power factors of (a) 0.8 lagging, (b) 0.8 leading, (c) Determine the power factor such
that the voltage regulation becomes zero on full load.
Synchronous Generators or Alternators 563
Solution:
Here, Rating = 10 kVA; R = 0.5 :; XS = 1.2 :
3
Full-load current, IL = kVA ¥ 1000 = 10 ¥ 10 = 25.1 A
3 ¥ VL 3 ¥ 230
Phase current, I = IL = 25.1 A
VL
Rated voltage per phase, V = = 230 = 132.8 V
3 3
Considering V as reference phasor, V = V –0 º = 132.8 –0 º = 132.8 + j 0
Synchronous impedance, Z s = R + jXS = 0.5 + j1.2 = 1.3 –67.38 ” W
(a) When power factor is 0.8 lagging
I = I – - cos -1 0.8 = 25.1 – - 36.87 ” A
E0 = V + I Z s
= (132.8 + j0) + (25.1 – - 36.87 ”) (1.3 –67.38 ”)
= 132.8 + 32.63 –30.51” = 132.8 + 28.1 + j 1.6.56
= 160.9 + j16.56 = 161.75 –5.87 ”
E0 - V
Voltage regulation = ¥ 100 = 161.75 - 132.8 ¥ 100
V 132.8
= 21.8% (Ans.)
(b) When power factor is 0.8 leading
I = I – + cos -1 0.8 = 25.1 – 36.87 ” A
E0 = V + I Z s
= 132.8 + (25.1 – 36.87”) (1.3– 67.38 ”)
= 132.8 + 32.63 – 104.25”
= 132.8 - 8 + j 31.62 = 124.8 + j 31.62
= 128.74 –14.2 ” V
E0 - V
Voltage regulation = ¥ 100 = 128.74 - 132.8 ¥ 100
V 132.8
= – 3.06% (Ans.)
(c) For zero regulation, let Ibe the required power-factor angle.
? I = I–f = 25.1 –f A
E0 = V + I Z s
= 132.8 + (25.1 I ) (1.3 67.38q)
= 132.8 + 32.63 (I + 67.38q)
= 132.8 + 32.63 cos (I + 67.38°) + j 32.63 sin (I + 67.38°)
564 Electrical Machines
Example 6.24
A three-phase, star-connected, 10 kVA, 400V 50Hz alternator has armature resistance of 0.5 ohm/
phase and synchronous reactance 10 ohm/phase. Determine its torque angle and voltage regulation
when it supplies rated load at 0.8 pf lagging.
Solution:
Here, Rated power = 10 kVA; R = 0.5 : X5 = 10 : cos I= 0.8 lagging
3
Rated load current, IL = 10 ¥ 10 = 14.4 A
3 ¥ 400
Rated phase current, I = IL = 14.4 A
Z S = R + jXS = 0.5 + j10 = 10.012 –87º W
VL
Rated phase voltage, V = = 400 = 230.9 V
3 3
Taking phase voltage V as reference phasor,
? V = V –0 º = 230.9 –0 º = (230.9 ± j 0) V
At 0.8 lagging power factor
Current, I = I – - cos -1 0.8 = 14.4 – - 36.87 ” A
E0 = V + I Z s
= 230.9 + j0 + (14.4 – - 36.87∞) (10.012) –87∞)
= 230.9 + 144.2 –50.13∞ = 230.9 + 92.4 + j 110.6
= 323.3 + j110.6 = 341.7 –18.9∞ V
? E 0 = 341.7 V
Torque angle between V and E 0 is G = 18.9° (leading)
E0 - V
Voltage regulation = = 341.7 - 230.9 = 0.4798 pu (Ans.)
V 230.9
Synchronous Generators or Alternators 565
2. A three-phase star connected alternator has an armature resistance of 0.1 ohm per phase. When excited
to 860 V line voltage and on short-circuit the alternator gave 200 A. What should be the emf (in line terms)
the alternator must be excited to, in order to maintain a terminal p.d. of 400 volt with 100 ampere armature
current at 0.8 p.f. lagging. (Ans. 452 V)
3. A 600 volt, 60 kVA, single-phase alternator has an effective armature resistance of 0.3 ohm. An exciting
current of 5 ampere produces an emf of 400 volt on open circuit and an armature current of 200 ampere
on short circuit. Calculate:
(i) the synchronous impedance and synchronous reactance.
(ii) the full load regulation with 0.8 p.f. lagging. (Ans. 2 :, 2.974 :, 24.81%)
4. A three-phase, star-connected, 1000 kVA, 3000 V, 50 Hz alternator produces a short-circuit current of 200
A and an open circuit voltage of 1040 V with the same field current 40 A. if its armature has an effective
resistance of 0.2 ohm per phase, calculate full-load percentage regulation of the machine at a pf of 0.8
lagging. (Ans. 24·34%)
5. A three-phase, star-connected, 1000 kVA, 3300 V, 50 Hz alternator produces a short-circuit current of 200
A and an open circuit voltage of 1040 V with the same field current 40 A. It its armature has an effective
resistance of 0.2 ohm per phase, calculate full-load regulation of the alternator at a pf of 0.8 lagging and
0.8 leading. (Ans. 19.9%, –11.8%)
Q.4. Write down the expression for no-load terminal voltage for resistive, inductive and capacitive load.
Ans. Expression for No-load terminal voltage
This assumption also causes errors because the shift of armature flux varies with the power
factor and the load current.
4. The magnetic reluctance to the armature flux is considered to be constant regardless of the
power factor.
Although, this assumption is substantially true for non-salient pole type alternators because
air-gap in these machines is uniform. But in case of salient pole type alternators, the position of
armature flux relative to field poles varies with the power factor. This assumption also introduces
considerable error.
Hence, it is found that the regulation determined by using synchronous impedance method is
higher than the actual value.
Example 6.25
The open-circuit test data of a 500 kVA, 4000 volt, 8 pole, 3-phase, 50 Hz alternator is:
ATs, per pole 2000 3000 3560 5000 6200 7000 8000
Terminal voltage 1990 2900 3400 4000 4400 4590 4800
The equivalent armature reaction expressed in ampere-turn per pole is 1.1 × ampere conductors
per pole per phase. There are 240 conductors per phase in series. If the inductive voltage drop 8%
on full load and the resistance drop is negligible. Then determine (i) Short circuit characteristic (ii)
field excitation and regulation for full load at 0-8 p. f. lagging.
Solution:
Converting three-phase terminal line voltage into phase values, we have
1990 , 2900 , 3400 , 4000 , 4400 , 4800 = 1150, 1675, 1963, 2310, 2540, 2650, 2770
3 3 3 3 3 3
Open-circuit characteristic is drawn by taking ATs per pole along the abscissa and voltage per
phase along the ordinate, as shown in Fig. 6.56.
The field ATs or simply field current that is obtained from OCC is used to overcome the effects of
armature reaction and leakage reactance. The ATs 2376 are the field ATs for balancing the armature
reaction. The field ATs to balance or overcome the leakage reactance can be read off from the OCC
graph corresponding to leakage reactance drop of 185 volt and it comes out to be 370 ampere turn.
? Short circuit field ATs = 2376 + 370 = 2746 ATs.
570 Electrical Machines
So the SCC is drawn with two points, one the origin (0,0) and second point is (2746, 72), These
two points are joined, hence we get a straight line.
To determine total ampere-turns, proceed as follows:
Draw the phasor diagram as shown in Fig. 6.57. where terminal phase voltage V is taken as reference
vector and current lags behind this voltage by an angle 36.87° (I = cos–1 0.8 = 36.87°). Here, resistance
drop is zero and drop in leakage reactance IXs is 185 V which leads the current vector by 90°.
= 2525 V
From the OCC curve the field ATs corresponding to 2425 volt are 5500
These field ATs, (oa) are drawn at right angle to E as shown in Fig. 6.57. The armature reaction
ATs (2376) only are drawn parallel opposition to current I i.e., ab as shown in the Fig. 6.57. The
angle between oa and ab, is (90 + I). (Gbetween E and V is neglected being small). The resultant
vector ob is given as below:
Example 6.26
The following test results were obtained on a 345 kVA, three-phase, 6600 volt, star connected non
salient pole type alternator.
Open circuit characteristics.
Terminal voltage in volt 1400 2100 5600 6600 7240 8100
Exciting current in ampere 20 30 46.5 58 76.5 96
Synchronous Generators or Alternators 571
Solution:
Reducing all line voltages to phase voltage, for a star connected machine.
1400 , 2100 , 5600 , 6600 , 7240 , 8100 = 808, 1212, 3233, 3810, 4180, 4676
3 3 3 3 3 3
Plot the OCC as shown in Fig. 6.58
Plot the SCC from the given data. It is a straight line as shown in Fig. 6.58..
Terminal voltage (phase value), V = 6600 = 3810 V is taken as reference vector. Since armature
3
resistance is neglected, there is only leakage reactance drop.
IX S cos f
Phase difference between E and V is G = sin–1 = sin -1 304.8 ¥ 0.8 = 3.5”
E 4000
From OCC graph, corresponding to 4000 volt, the field current is 62 ampere.
This excitation (If1) is called normal excitation which is drawn at right angles to E. This is
represented by vector oa.
From short-circuit characteristic, corresponding to full load current of 30 A, the exciting current
is 42.85 A. This excitation (If2) is in phase opposition with the current I and represents the field
excitation of armature reaction and leakage reactance drop. The vector (ab) is drawn in parallel to
current vector in phase opposition to balance the effect of armature reaction.
Now, the resultant of these two vectors is given by ob whose magnitude (If) is calculated as follows.
ob2 = oa2 + ab2 – 2oa × ab × cos (90 + I + G )
= (62)2 + (42.85)2 – 2 × 62 × 42.85 × cos (90 + 36.87° + 3.5°)
= 3844 + 1800 + 2 × 62 × 42.85 × cos (49.63°)
ob = 3844 + 1800 + 2 ¥ 62 ¥ 42.85 ¥ 0.64 = 95 A
If, it is required to find the regulation, then corresponding to this field excitation the open circuit
voltage Eo can be read off from the OCC curve. This voltage Eo always lags the excitation ob by 90°
as shown in Fig. 6.59.
IX S
Gc = sin -1 = sin -1 304.8 = 4.58∞
E 3822
Corresponding to 3822 V, the field excitation from OCC curve is 59.8 A
I = 345 ¥ 1000 = 30 A
3 ¥ 6600
From short circuit characteristic 30 A corresponds to exciting current of 42.85 A
Now oac is drawn at right angles to E and is equal to 59.8 A. Now acbc equal to 42.85 A is drawn
parallel to current vector. The vector obc is the vector sum of oac and acbc.
= 76.25 A (Ans.)
Again if it is required to find the regulation then corresponding to this field current of 76.25 A
the open-circuit voltage Eo can be determined which always lags the excitation obc by 90°.
Eo - V
? % age regulation = ¥ 100
V
Example 6.27
The data for open circuit characteristics of a 3.3 kV, 1500 kVA star-connected, three-phase alternator
running at 760 rpm is given below:
Terminal Voltage (V): 1500 2200 2700 3200 3550 3800 41100 4100 4150
Field AT, per pole: 2000 3000 4000 5000 6000 7000 8000 9000 10000
The number of turns per phase is 55. The resistance measured between terminals is 0.5 ohm and
leakage reactance per phase is 1.5 ohm. Assume that the armature reaction ampere turns per pole
are equal to 1 4 times ampere turns per pole per phase. The ratio of effective resistance to measured
resistance is 1.4.
Determine the percentage regulation when full load at normal voltage and at p. f. 0 8 lagging is
switched off and the speed of the alternator increases to 770 rpm
574 Electrical Machines
Solution:
Changing the line voltages into phase voltages, we have,
1500 , 2200 , 2700 , 3200 , 3550 , 3800 , 4000 , 4100 , 4150
3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3, 3
866, 1270, 1560, 1848, 2050, 2190, 2310, 2370, 2400
Plot the OCC curve by taking field ATS along the x-axis and terminal phase voltages along the
y-axis as shown in Fig. 6.61.
X L = l.5 :
The phasor diagram is shown in Fig. 6.62. for finding the voltage E. The terminal voltage V is
taken as reference phasor.
Corresponding to 2230 volt, the field ampere turns from OCC curve is 7150 ATs.
Armature reaction ATs per pole per phase are = 1.4 × ATS per pole per phase
I ¥ Turns per phase
= 1.4 × = 1.4 ¥ 263 ¥ 55 = 2525 ATs
No. of poles 8
The field ATs as obtained from the OCC curve corresponding to normal open circuit voltage are
called no-load ATs. These ATs (oa) are drawn at right angle to the voltage vector OE. The armature
reaction ATs per pole per phase (2525) is drawn parallel opposition to load current I. i.e., ab is drawn
parallel opposition to I. The resultant of oa, and ab is given by ob. The angle between oa and ab is
(90 + I)
Example 6.28
When an open circuit and short circuit tests were performed on a three-phase, star-connected, 1000
kVA, 2000 V, 50 Hz alternator, the following results were obtained:
Field current (in ampere): 10 15 20 25 30 35 40 45 50
O.C. terminal voltage (in volt): 800 1143 1500 1760 2000 2173 2350 2476 2600
S.C. armature current (in ampere): — — 200 250 300 — — — —
The armature effective resistance per phase is 0.2 :.
Draw the characteristic curves and determine the full-load percentage regulation at (a) 0.8 power
factor lagging, (b) 0.8 power factor leading. Also draw the phasor diagrams.
Solution:
The OCC and SCC are shown in Fig. 6.63.
The open circuit phase voltage in volt are
800 , 1143 , 1500 , 1760 , 2000 , 2173 , 2350 , 2476 , 2600 ;
3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3
or = 462, 660, 866, 1016, 1155, 1255, 1357, 1430, 1501
(a) At power factor 0.8 lagging (neglecting leakage reactance since not given)
Here G = –1.65° V
From the OCC, the field current required to produce the voltage of 1201.7 V is 32 A. Therefore
oa = I f1 = 32 A. This current leads the voltage vector OE by 90° or leads the terminal voltage
From the SCC, the field current required to produce full-load current of 288.7A is 29 A. Therefore
ob = I f2 = 29 A. For cos I= 0.8, I= 36.87°
From the OCC, the open circuit phase voltage corresponding to the field current of 54.18 A is
1555 V.
Eo - V
? Percentage voltage regulation = ¥ 100 = 1555 - 1155 ¥ 100 = 34.63% (Ans.)
V 1155
(b) At power factor 0.8 leading
E = V +IR
= 1155 + (288.7 +cos–1 0.8) × 0.2
= 1155 + 46.2 + j34.64
= 1201.2 + j34.64 = 1201.7 +1.65° V.
From the phasor diagram shown in Fig. 6.65.
= – 0.92 + j31.98 A
I f2 = I f2 –180 º + f
From point B, line BC is drawn equal and parallel to AO. Then a line is drawn through C parallel
to initial straight part of OCC (parallel to extended OG), intersecting the OCC at D. BD is joined
and a perpendicular DF is dropped on BC. The triangle BFD is imposed at various points of OCC
to obtain corresponding points on the zero factor curve.
In triangle BDF the length BF represents armature reaction excitation and the length DF represents
leakage reactance drop (I XL)*. This is known as Potier reactance voltage drop and the triangle is
known as Potier triangle. The Potier reactance is given, as
DF (voltage drop per phase)
XP =
Zero power current per phase
It is observed that in case of cylindrical rotor machines, Potier reactance is nearly equal to armature
leakage reactance, but in case of salient pole machines, the magnetising circuit is more saturated and
the armature leakage reactance is smaller than the Potier reactance.
Example 6.29
The following test results were obtained when these were performed on a 15 MVA,
11 kV, three-phase, 50 Hz, star-connected alternator:
Field AT per pole in thousand 5 10 15 18 25 30 35 40 45 50
Open-circuit line emf in kV 2.9 5.0 7.0 8.1 10.0 11.1 11.9 12.7 13.3 13.65
Full-load current, zero power
factor test, line pd in kV — — — 0 — — — — 10.0 —
Find the armature reaction ampere-turns, the leakage reactance and the regulation for full load at
0.8 pf lagging. Neglect resistance.
Solution:
From the given data, draw OCC between phase voltage and field current. Full-load zero power factor
curve is drawn, taking point A (18, 0) and point B (45, 10.2 ) being known. From the triangle BDF
3
drawn in Fig. 6.68.
Armature reaction ampere turns = BF = 15000 AT/pole. (Ans.)
Ê ˆ
Excitation corresponding to 6770 V Á = 11727 V ˜ is 33000 AT
Ë 3 ¯
Synchronous Generators or Alternators 583
= 43680 AT
Example 6.30
Determine the voltage regulation by zero power factor method of a 500 kVA, 6600V, three-phase,
star-connected alternator having a resistance of 0.075 ohm per phase, when delivering a current
of 500 A at power factor (i) 0.8 lagging (ii) 0.707 leading and (iii) unity. The alternator has the
following open circuit and full-load zero power factor curves:
Field current in A: 24 32 50 75 100 125 150
Open circuit terminal voltage in V: 1400 — 4500 6400 7500 8100 8400
Saturated curve, zero pf in V: 0 0 1900 4200 5750 6750 7100
Solution:
The OCC and ZPFC are plotted as shown in Fig. 6.70. At rated terminal voltage of 6600 V , draw
3
a horizontal line at B. Take BC = OA = 32A.
This field current OA is the field current required to circulate full-load current on short circuit.
Draw a line CD parallel to OG (the initial slope of OCC) to meet OCC at D. From point D draw a
perpendicular DF on the line BC. Here BCD is the Potier’s triangle.
From Potier’s triangle,
Field current required to overcome armature reaction on load = FB = 26A
584 Electrical Machines
Where FD represents voltage drop in leakage reactance at full-load current of 500 A (given)
Now, IX L = 462
? X L = 462 = 0.924 W
500
Draw the phasor diagram, as shown in Fig. 6.71, where,
Ê ˆ
From OCC, the field current corresponding to 3527 V Á i.e. 6109 V ˜
Ë 3 ¯
oac = I ¢f1 = 72 A
Corresponding to this field current of 86.6 A, the terminal voltage from OCC is 5000 = 2887 V
3
B¢0 - V
%Reg = ¥ 100 = 2887 - 3810 ¥ 100
V 3810
= 24.23% (Ans.)
(iii) When pf, cos I2 = 1; sin I2 = sin cos–1 1 = 0; I2 = 0°
Draw the phasor diagram as shown in Fig. 6.73.
Corresponding to this current of 85.2A, the terminal voltage from OCC is 6750 = 3897 V
3
Eo¢¢ - V
% Reg = ¥ 100 = 3897 - 3810 ¥ 100 = 2.26% (Ans.)
V 3810
Example 6.31
An open circuit, short circuit and load zero power factor tests are performed on a 6-pole, 440 V, 50
Hz, three-phase star-connected alternator. The effective ohmic resistance between any two terminals
of the armature is 0.4 :. and the test results are tabulated below:
Field current (A) 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 10 12 14 16 18
O.C. terminal voltage (V) 70 156 220 288 350 396 440 474 530 568 592 610 —
S.C. line current (A) — 11 — 22 — 34 40 46 57 69 80 — —
Zero p.f. terminal voltage (V) — — — — — — 0 80 206 314 398 460 504
Determine the regulation at full-load current of 40 A at 0.8 power factor lagging using
(a) synchronous impedance method,
(b) mmf method,
(c) Potier-triangle method
Solution:
The O.C.C., S.C.C. and ZPFC are plotted as shown in Fig. 6.74.
For a field current of 7 A the open-circuit phase voltage is 440 V and the short circuit current
3
is 40 A. Therefore the synchronous impedance
O.C. phase voltage for field current of 7A
Zs =
S.C. current for field current of 7A
= 440/ 3 = 6.351 W
40
Xs = Z s2 - R 2
pf1 cos I = 0.8 lagging; I = cos–1 0.8 = 36.87° lag.; sin I = sin 36.87° = 0.6
The phasor diagram in shown in Fig. 6.75.
Fig. 6.76.
DF = 75 = 43.3 V , BF = 6.0 A
3
2. A 4160 V, 3500kVA, 50Hz, three-phase alternator gave the following test results at open circuit:
Field current (in A) 50 100 150 200 250 300 350 400
Open circuit line emf (in V) 1620 3150 4160 4750 5130 5370 5550 5650
Full-load current flows at short circuit when a current of 200A flows through the field winding
Neglecting the armature resistance determine full-load voltage regulation of the alternator at 0.8 pf
lagging by using
(i) Synchronous impedance method. (ii) Ampere-turn method.
Also comment on the results. (Ans. 91.7%; 30.7%)
3. A 5 MVA, 6600 V, 50Hz, three-phase star connected alternator has the following test data.
Field current (in A) 32 50 75 100 140
592 Electrical Machines
Q.3. Which characteristic curves are required to be plotted for Potier method of computing voltage
regulation?
Ans. OCC, SCC and zero power-factor full load voltage characteristic curves are required to be plotted.
Xs
and Ts = tan -1
R
Fig. 6.78 Equivalent circuit Fig. 6.79 Phasor diagram with lagging pf
Synchronous Generators or Alternators 593
and E = E –d …(iii)
E = V + I Zs …(iv)
or I = E -V …(v)
Zs
È E –o - V –0 ˘ *
*
È ˘
= V Í E - V ˙ =V– 0 Í ˙
Î Zs ˚ Î Z s –q s ˚
*
È ˘
= V – 0 Í E –(d - q s ) - V – ( -q s ) ˙
Z
Î s Z s ˚
È ˘
= V – 0 Í E –(q s - d ) - V – q s ˙
Z
Î s Z s ˚
2
= VE –(q s - d ) - V –q s
Zs Zs
2
Pog + jQog = VE [cos (q s - d ) + j sin (q s - d )] - V (cos q s + j sin q s )
Zs Zs
È 2 ˘ È 2 ˘
= Í VE cos (q s - d ) - V cos q s ˙ + j Í VE sin (q s - d ) - V sin q s ˙ …(vii)
Î Zs Zs ˚ Î Zs Zs ˚
È E –d - V –0o ˘ *
*
È ˘
= E Í E - V ˙ = E– d Í ˙
Î Zs ˚ Î Z s –q s ˚
*
È ˘
= E – d Í E –(d - q s ) - V – - q s ˙
Z
Î s Z s ˚
È ˘
= E – d Í E –(q s - d ) - V – q s ˙
Z
Î s Z s ˚
2
= E –q s - EV –q s + d
Zs Zs
2 2
Pig + jQig = E cos q s + j E sin q s - EV cos (q s + d ) - j EV sin (q s + d )
Zs Zs Zs Zs
2 2
= E cos q s - EV cos (q s + d ) + j E sin q s - j EV sin (q s - d ) …(xii)
Zs Zs Zs Zs
È 2 ˘
Pig = 3 Í E 2 R - EV sin (d - a s ) ˙ (for 3-I machine)
ÍÎ Z s Z s ˙˚
È 2 ˘
Qig = 3 Í E 2 X s - EV cos (d - a s ) ˙ (for – 3I machine)
ÍÎ Z s Z s ˙˚
Mech. power input to the AC generator
Pi(mech.) = Pig + friction and windage loss + Core loss
d È EV sin (d + a ) - V 2 R ˘ = 0
Í s ˙ …(xv)
dd ÍÎ Z s Z s2 ˙˚
As E, V, Zs and R are constant
EV cos (d + a ) = 0 or cos (G + Ds) = 0
s
Zs
or G+ Ds = 90° or G = 90° – Ds
or G= Ts …(xvi)
Thus, the output power will be maximum, when load angle, G = impedance angle Ts
The maximum output power can be obtained by substituting this value in the given equation, i.e.,
2
Po(max.) = EV sin (90 - a s + a s ) - V R
Zs Zs
2
= EV - V R …(xvii)
Zs Zs
596 Electrical Machines
d È E2 EV sin (d - a ) ˘ = 0
Í 2R+ s ˙ …(xviii)
ds ÍÎ Z s Zs ˙˚
EV cos (d - a ) = 0 or cos (G – Ds) = 0
s
Zs
or G– Ds = 90° or G= 90° + Ds
or G= 90° + (90 – Ts) or G= 180° – Ts …(xix)
Thus, the input power will be maximum, when
The maximum input power can be obtained by substituting the value of G in given equation of
power input, i.e.,
2
Pi(max) = E 2 R + EV sin [180∞ - q s - (90∞ - q s )]
Zs Zs
2 2
= E 2 R + EV sin 90∞ = E R + EV …(xx)
Zs Zs Zs Zs
Solution:
Here, Rating= 762 kVA; VL = 2200 V; f = 50 Hz; three-phase
R = 0.6 :, If = 30 A; Isc = Ifl; Eoc( s ) = 1039 V
EV sin d = kVA ¥ 1000 ¥ cos f or 1764 ¥ 1270 sin d = 762 ¥ 1000 ¥ 0.8
Xs 3 2.94 3
a salient pole synchronous machine, the air-gap is non-uniform due to which its reactance varies
with the rotor position. Therefore, a salient pole machine possesses two axes of geometric symmetry
(i) field pole axis, called direct axis or d-axis and
(ii) axis passing through the centres of the inter-polar space, called the quadrature axis or q-axis,
These axes are shown in Fig. 6.80. In case of a cylindrical rotor machines, there is only one
axis of symmetry (pole axis or direct axis).
Quadrature
or
q-Axis
Direct
S N or
+ + ++ + + d-Axis
Thus, for salient pole machines, the reluctance of the magnetic paths on which the induced emf
depends, acts differently along the direct axis and quadrature axis. The reluctance of the direct axis
magnetic circuit is due to yoke and teeth of the stator, air-gap, and pole shoe and core of the rotor. In
quadrature axis, the reluctance is mainly due to large air-gap in the interpolar space.
Thus it is observed that because of non-uniformity of the reluctance of the magnetic paths, the
mmf of the armature is divided into two components namely:
(i) a direct acting component and (ii) a quadrature (or cross) component.
We have seen that when armature current is in phase with the excitation voltage E the entire mmf
of the armature acts at right angles to the axis of the salient poles and, therefore, all the armature
mmf is in quadrature. But, if the armature current is in quadrature with the excitation voltage E, the
entire mmf of the armature acts directly along the magnetic axis of the salient poles. Hence, all of
the armature mmf is either added or subtracted from the mmf of the salient pole field. However when
the phase difference between armature current and excitation voltage, is of some angle in between 0
and 90°, the armature mmf will have both a direct acting and a quadrature component. The direct-
acting component is proportional to the sine of the phase angle between the armature current and
excitation voltage, whereas the quadrature (or cross) component is proportional to the cosine of the
phase angle between the armature current and the excitation voltage.
The two reactance concept is similar to the synchronous impedance concept where the effect of
armature reaction is taken into account by means of equivalent armature reactance voltage. Since,
there is difference in the reluctance of the magnetic paths upon which the two components of the
armature mmf act, the value of the equivalent reactance for the direct component of armature mmf
Synchronous Generators or Alternators 599
is greater than the value of the equivalent reactance for the quadrature component of the armature
mmf. Thus the two-reactance concept for salient-pole machines replaces the effect of armature
reaction by two fictitious voltages. These reactance voltages are respectively Id X ad and IqXaq, where
Id and Iq are the components of the armature current along direct and quadrature axis respectively.
Each of these components of armature current also, produce a leakage-reactance voltage caused by
the armature leakage flux. However, the armature leakage reactance exists is assumed to have the
same value X L for both components of the armature current, Therefore, synchronous reactance for
each component of the armature mmf is as follows:
Synchronous reactance for direct axis,
Xd = Xad + X L
Xq = Xaq + X L
The voltage equation for each phase of the armature based on the two-reactance concept,
V = E 0 - I R - I d X d - I q Xq
Usually, for salient pole synchronous machines Xq = 0.6 to 0.7 times Xd whereas in cylindrical
rotor machines Xq = Xd
Step-II: A three-phase balanced reduced voltage (say V volt) is applied to the stator winding of the
unexcited machine operating at a speed little less than its synchronous speed (slip being less than 1%).
Step-III: Using oscillographs, measure and draw the wave shapes of the voltage applied across
armature winding, current flowing through it and the voltage induced in the field winding (see Fig.
6.82)
Theory: When low voltage V is applied to the stator winding, a current I flows through it which
produces stator mmf. This stator mmf moves slowly relative to the poles and induces an emf in the
circuit at slip frequency.
600 Electrical Machines
When the axis of the poles and axis of the armature reaction mmf wave coincide, the armature
mmf acts through the field magnetic circuit. The voltage applied to the armature is then equal to drop
caused by the direct component of armature reaction reactance and leakage reactance.
Fig. 6.82 Wave diagrams for applied voltage and armature current
When the armature reaction mmf is in quadrature with the field poles, the applied voltage is equal
to the leakage reactance drop plus the equivalent voltage drop of the corresponding field component.
Accordingly, the value Xd and Xq is determined from the oscillograph record as mentioned below :
Maximum voltage Minimum voltage
Xd = and Xq =
Minimum current Maximum current
(ii) From the extreme point of the voltage phasor a line parallel to current phasor OI and equal to
IR is drawn.
(iii) From the extreme point of the phasor IR a line perpendicular to current phasor OI and equal to
IXq is drawn
(iv) Draw a line from the origin O passing through the extreme point of IXq phasor. This line gives
the direction of excitation voltage E 0.
(v) Knowing the direction of E 0 the currents ld and Iq are drawn and their values are determined.
(vi) From extreme point of vector IR, draw a vector IdXd perpendicular to Id and IqXq from the
extreme point of vector IdXd, as shown in Fig. 6.83, perpendicular to Iq.
(vii) By adding vectorially IdXd and Iq Xq to extremity of phasor IR, the magnitude of excitation
voltage E 0 is determined.
The angle T between E 0 and I is called the internal power factor angle whereas, the angle G
between E 0 and V is called the load or power angle.
The phasor diagram is redrawn in Fig. 6.84 taking E 0 in horizontal direction.
From Fig. 6.84
From 'OGF
tan T= GF = GB + BF = HA + BF
OG OH + HG DF + AE
V sin f + IX q
= (for* generating action) …(i)
V cos f + IR
V sin f - IX q V sin f + IX q
= or T= tan -1 …(ii)
V cos f - IRa V cos f + IRa
Load angle G = T– I (for* generating action)
For lagging power factor, angle I is taken as +ve but for leading power factor it is taken as –ve.
Usually, the value armature resistance is so small as compared to reactance that it is neglected,
then the phasor diagram becomes as shown in Fig. 6.86.The load angle G can be determined directly
as below:
V sin f - IX q
* For motoring action, tan T =
V cos f - IR
Synchronous Generators or Alternators 603
E V 2È ˘
= 0 sin d + V Í 1 - 1 ˙ sin 2d
X 2 ÍX X ˙
d Î q d˚
604 Electrical Machines
3E V 2È ˘
P= 0 sin d + 3V Í 1 - 1 ˙ sin 2d
X 2 ÍX X ˙
d Î q d˚
From the above expression, it is very clear that power developed consists of two terms, the first
term representing power due to excitation and the second term represents the reluctance power i.e.,
power due to salient rotor construction. In case of a cylindrical rotor machine Xd = Xq and hence the
second term becomes zero and the power is given by the first term only.
Example 6.33
A three-phase star-connected salient pole synchronous generator is driven at a speed slightly less
then synchronous speed with open circuited field winding. Its stator is supplied from a balanced
three-phase supply. Voltmeter connected across the line gave minimum and maximum readings
of 2810 and 2830 volt. The line current varies between 365 and 280 ampere. Find the direct and
quadrature axis synchronous reactances per phase. Neglect armature resistance.
Solution:
Maximum voltage = 2830 V
Minimum voltage = 2810 V
Maximum current = 365 A
Minimum current = 280 A
Direct-axis synchronous reactance, per phase, Xd
Maximum voltage / Phase
=
Minimum current
= 2830 = 5.83 W (Ans)
3 ¥ 280
Quadrature synchronous reactance, per phase,
Minimum voltage / phase
Xq =
Maximum current
= 2810 = 4.44 :(Ans)
3 ¥ 280
Example 6.34
A three-phase, 3300 V, 50 Hz, star-connected alternator has an effective resistance of 0.5 :/phase.
A field current of 30 A produces full-load current of 180 A on short-circuit and a line to line emf of
1000 V on open circuit. Determine
(i) the power angle of the alternator when it delivers full-load at 0.8 pf (lag)
(ii) the SCR of the alternator.
Solution:
Here, VL = 3300 V: Ifl = I =180 A: If = 30 A: EOL =1000 V; R = 0.5 : / phase
Synchronous Generators or Alternators 605
VL
Phase voltage, V = = 3300 = 1905 V
3 3
OC phase voltage
Synchronous impedance per phase, Zs = for the same field current
SC current per phase
= 1000 / 3 = 3.21 :
180
Synchronous impedance per phase, Xs = Z s2 - R 2 = (3.21)2 - (0.5)2 = 3.165 :
Solution:
Converting terminal line voltage to phase voltages:
Field current in A: 30 50 75 100 140
O.C. phase voltage in V: 2906 / 3 4700 / 3 6600 / 3 7500 / 3 8300 / 3
1678 2714 3810 4330 4792
The OCC is drawn as shown in Fig. 6.87
606 Electrical Machines
The phasor diagram for full load 0.8 power factor (lagging) is drawn as shown in Fig. 6.88,
Example 6.36
A three-phase alternator has a direct axis synchronous reactance of 1.0 pu and a quadrature axis
synchronous reactance of 0.65 pu per phase. When the machine is operating at full load at a pf of
0.8 lagging, draw the phase diagram and estimate from there (i) the load angle and (ii) pu no-load
emf. Neglect armature resistance.
Solution:
Here, Xd = l.0 pu; Xq = 0.65 pu; cos I = 0.8 lagging
Terminal voltage, V = 1.0 pu
Armature current, I = 1.0 pu
Now, cos I = 0.8; sin I = sin cos–10.8 = 0.6
(i) The phasor diagram is (shown in Fig. 6.89)
Example 6.37
The direct and quadrature axis synchronous reactances of a three-phase, 6.6 kV, 4 MVA, 32 salient
pole alternator are 9 and 60 ohm respectively. Determine its regulation and excitation emf needed
to maintain 6.6 kV at the terminals when supplying a load of 2.5 MVA at 0.8 pf lagging. What
maximum power can this alternator supply at the rated terminal voltage if the field becomes open
circuited? Neglect armature resistance.
608 Electrical Machines
Solution:
Here, VL = 6600V; cos I = 0.8 lagging; Xd = 9:; Xq = 6:
V2 È 1 ˘ (6600)2
È 1 - 1 ˘ = 1210000 W or 1.21 MW (Ans.)
= L Í - 1 ˙ =
2 ÍX X ˙ 2 ÍÎ 6 9 ˙˚
Î q d˚
Example 6.38
A 3-phase, star connected, 10 kVA, 400 V, salient pole alternator with direct and quadrature axis
reactances of 15 ohm and 8 ohm respectively, delivers full-load current at 0.8 power factor lagging.
Calculate the excitation voltage, neglecting resistance.
Solution:
Here, VL = 400 V; 10 kVA; Xd = 15 :; Xq = 8 :; cos I = 0.8 lagging
Example 6.39
The armature of a three-phase, star-connected, 10 kVA, 400 V, 50 Hz salient pole alternator has
a resistance of 1 ohm per phase. Its direct and quadrature axis reactances are 15 ohm and 9 ohm
respectively. The machine is delivering rated load at rated voltage and pf 0.8 lagging. If the load angle
is 17°, find (i) The direct axis and quadrature axis component of armature current. (ii) excitation
voltage of the generator.
Solution:
Here, VL = 400 V; R = I :; Xd = 15 :; Xq = 9 :; cos I = 0.8 lagging; G = 17°
cos I = 0.8 lagging; I = cos–10.8 = 36.87°; sin I = sin 36.87° = 0.6
V sin f + IX q
Determination of angle T, tan T= GF = GB + BF =
OG OH + HG V cos f + IR
610 Electrical Machines
2. A three-phase, star-connected salient pole, alternator at 5000 kVA, 6 kV, has a resistance of 1.5% and
leakage reactance of 10%. A field current of 60 A produces short-circuit armature current equal to full-
load current. The armature cross-reaction per armature turn is half of the direct reaction. The open-circuit
characteristic is as follows:
Field current in ampere 25 50 75 100 140
Terminal voltage in volt 2340 4700 6600 7500 8300
Find the percentage regulation on full load at a power factor of 0.8 (lagging) by mmf method.
(Ans. 23.94%)
3. The direct and quadrature axis synchronous reactances of a three-phase, star connected, 3500 kVA,
6600 V, 32-pole salient pole alternator are 9.6 and 6 ohm, respectively, when measured by the slip test.
If armature resistance is neglected, determine; (i) Regulation and excitation emf required to maintain the
rated voltage at the terminals when delivering a load of 2500 kW at 0.8 pf lagging. (ii) What maximum
power can this machine supply at the rated terminal voltage if the field becomes open-circuited?
(Ans. 1361 kW )
4. A 10 kVA, 4380 V, 50 Hz, three-phase, star-connected salient pole synchronous generator has direct axis
and quadrature axis reactances of 12 : and 8 : respectively. The armature has a resistance of 1 : per
phase. The generator delivers rated load at 0.8 pf lagging with the terminal voltage being maintained at
rated value. If the load angle is 16.15°, determine.
(i) the direct axis and quadrature axis components of armature current,
(ii) excitation voltage of the generator. (Ans. 12.14 A, 9.14 A; 633 V )
Synchronous Generators or Alternators 611
Q.2. Why two reaction theory is applied only to salient pole synchronous machines?
Ans. In case of salient pole machines, the air-gap is not uniform and its reactance varies with the rotor
position. Because of this non-uniformity of the reactance of the magnetic paths, the mmf of the armature
is divided into two components called direct-acting component along the field pole axis i.e direct-axis
and quadrature-component along the axis passing through the centre of the two consecutive salient
poles i.e., quadrature axis.
Q.3. What are the factors on which the power angle d depends?
Ans. The power angle d depends upon the following factors:
(i) Supply voltage (ii) armature current
(iii) load power factor and (iv) quadrature component of synchronous reactance.
Consider a three-phase alternator running at synchronous speed with its DC field excitation,
without any load. When a short-circuit occurs at its terminals, the resulting currents in the three
phases will develop as shown in Fig. 6.91.
The armature current in each phase has an AC as well as DC component. The AC component
corresponds to the armature current required to oppose the time varying flux produced by the field
winding as it rotates and the DC component corresponds to the initial flux linkages exist at the
instant of short circuit. The net resultant of these currents produces the armature flux linkages. Each
phase of armature keeps its initial flux linkages constant. The similar effects occur in the rotor field
winding and these actions occur simultaneously.
Most of the synchronous machines have damper winding which has resistance, self-inductance
and mutual inductance with respect to armature and field windings. This winding also affects the
short circuit currents.
The transient conditions (currents) do not remain indefinitely. These tend to decay due to resistance
of armature and field winding, as shown in Fig. 6.92.
Synchronous Generators or Alternators 613
As the voltage at the three phases are 120° out of phase, the short circuit occur at different voltages
at the three phases. Accordingly the AC component of currents, at the instant of short circuit, is
different in each phase. As a result the DC component of armature current is also different in each
phase. The total initial current in about 1.5 times AC component of current.
As shown in Fig. 6.92, the AC component of current can be divided into three distinct periods
(i) Subtransient period: During one cycle or so, the AC current is very large and falls very rapidly.
This period of time is called subtransient period and the rms value of AC current flowing during
this period is called sub-transient current (Is). This current is developed due to the effect of
both damper and field winding. It falls quickly with a time constant Tds
(ii) Transient period: After sub-transient period, the current continues to fall but at slow rate till it
attains a steady value. This period of slow decay is called transient period and the rms value
of AC current during this period is called transient current (Ic). it is caused in the field winding
at the instant of short circuit. The time constant of transient period (Tdc) is much longer (nearly
5 times) than the sub-transient time period. It is because the time constant of field winding
circuit is much longer than damper winding circuit.
(iii) Steady state period: After transient period, the short circuit current reaches a steady state value
ISC It persists as long the circuit is not opened by some protective device.
It is possible to observe the three periods of current if the rms value of AC component is plotted as
a function of time on a semi-log scale, as shown in Fig. 6.93. Accordingly, it is possible to determine
the time constants Tds and Tdc from such a plot.
The transient current envelope cuts the y-axis at point b (see Fig. 6.92). Ic is the rms value of
transient current (i.e., ob 2 ) and the corresponding value of reactance is called direct axis transient
reactance (Xdc).
Similarly, the rms value of the current represented by intercept oc (i.e., oc 2 ) is known as steady
state short circuit current ISC and the corresponding reactance is called the direct axis reactance Xd.
EO 2 EO
Thus Xd s = = … (i)
I" oa
EO 2 EO
Xd c = = …(ii)
I’ ob
EO 2 EO
Xd = = …(iii)
I SC oc
Where EO is the rms value of the open circuit voltage per phase.
E E E
Also, Is = o ; I ¢ = o and I = o
X d¢¢ X d¢ SC
Xd
The rms value of current at any time t [i.e., I (t)] after short circuit can be determined by the equation
-t / Td¢¢ -t / Td¢
I(t) = ( I ¢¢ - I ¢)e + ( I ¢ - ISC ) + ISC …(iv)
Example 6.40
A three-phase, 11kV 100 MVA synchronous generator is running at synchronous speed with rated
voltage at no-load. Suddenly, a short circuit fault develops at its terminals, the per unit reactances are
Xds = 0.15; Xdc = 0.25; Xd = 1.0
Synchronous Generators or Alternators 615
The time constants are Tds = 0.05 s and Tdc = 1.2 s and the initial DC component in such that
the total current is 1.8 times of the initial AC component of current. Find
(i) AC component of current at the instant of short circuit
(ii) total current at the instant of short circuit
(iii) AC component of current after 2 cycles
(iv) AC component of current after 4 s
Solution:
Here, VL = 11 kV; rating = 100 MVA; Tds = 0.05 s; Tdc =1.2 s
-t / Td¢¢ -t / Td¢
I(t) = ( I ¢¢ - I ¢)e + ( I ¢ - ISC )e + ISC
Here t = 2 = 0.04 s
50
I(t) = (34991 - 20994.4)e -0.04 / 0.05 + (20994.4 - 5248.6)e -0.04 / 1.2 + 5248.6
(iv) When t = 4 s
The major part of this loss occur in the armature core. To minimise this loss, the armature
core is laminated into thin sheets (0·3 to 0·5 mm) since this loss is directly proportional
to the square of thickness of the laminations.
3. Mechanical losses: As the field system of a synchronous machine is a rotating part, some power
is required to overcome:
(i) Air friction of rotating field system (windage loss).
(ii) Friction at the bearing and friction between brushes and slip rings (friction loss).
These losses are known as mechanical losses. To reduce these losses proper lubrication is done
at the bearings.
4. Stray losses. In addition to the iron losses, the core losses are also caused by distortion of the
magnetic field under load conditions and losses in insulation of armature and field winding, these
losses are called stray lasses. These losses are also included while determining the efficiency
of synchronous machines.
Efficiency of a synchronous Generator
The ratio of output power to the input power of a synchronous generator is called its efficiency.
Output Input - Losses
Efficiency, K = = = 1 - Losses
Input Input Input
Output
Also, K=
Output + Losses
is very harmful for the electrical machines. Therefore, various means are adopted to dissipate this
heat into the atmosphere and to reduce the temperature of machine. At a stage when the rate of heat
production becomes equal to the rate of heat dissipation, final temperature is achieved. Hence, to
keep the temperature of the machine within the limits, efficient cooling method is necessary.
In this method, fans are mounted on the rotor shaft which induces a stream of air flow into the
machine. The air enters the machine from one side and leaves at the other. Air flows axially
and radially in the machine and cools it (see Fig. 6.95). In bigger machines separate fans are
driven by the independent motor are employed to circulate more air and improve the cooling
efficiency.
(ii) Closed-Circuit Cooling: The closed-circuit cooling
system is one in which the same volume of air
passes through a closed circuit. It passes through the
alternator, becomes heated, then it passes through air
cooler, where it is cooled down and again circulated
through the alternator by a forced fan as shown in Fig.
6.96. The air thus circulates in a closed system. The
closed-circuit cooling system is widely used with large
synchronous generators.
In closed-circuit cooling system not only air, but also
other gases may be used for cooling of large synchronous
Fig. 6.96 Closed circuit cooling
generators. At present hydrogen at a pressure of 3–4
atmosphere is mainly used.
Synchronous Generators or Alternators 619
Hydrogen cooling has a number of valuable advantages over air cooling as mentioned below;
1. The heat conductivity of hydrogen is 7 times greater than that of air and as a result the surface
heat-transfer coefficient is 1·4 times greater than air. Hydrogen, therefore, cools a machine more
effectively and a machine of higher output can be built with smaller dimensions.
2. Hydrogen is 14 times lighter than air. Hence, the windage losses, which in high speed machines
make up the bulk of the total losses, decreases to about one-tenth of the losses when air is used.
This results in the increase in efficiency of the machine.
3. With the use of hydrogen, when the corona phenomena occurs ozone gas is not liberated to
cause intense oxidation of the insulation. Thus the service life of insulation is improved.
Q.2. When the alternator terminals are suddenly short-circuited due to any fault, what do you mean by
subtransient, transient and steady state period
Ans. Subtransient period: During one cycle or so, the AC current is very large and falls very rapidly, this
period is called subtransient period (Tds)
Transient period: After subtransient period, the current continues to fall but at slow rate till it attains
steady value, this period between subtransient and steady state period is called transient period (Tdc).
Steady state period: After transient period, the current attains a steady value (ISC) till the fault is removed
this period is called steady state period.
Review Questions
1. Deduce the relation between number of poles frequency and speed of an alternator.
2. A Synchronous machine (generator or motor) is named as synchronous machine, why?
3. Name the various part of a synchronous machine. Give the function and material used for each of them.
4. Give the constructional details of cylindrical rotor alternator.
5. Explain the difference between salient pole and cylindrical pole type of rotor used in alternators. Mention
their applications.
6. Explain why the stator core of an alternator is laminated.
7. The Synchronous generators employed at hydro-electric power plant have larger diameter and smaller
length, why?
8. The Synchronous generators employed at steam power plants have smaller diameter and larger length,
why?
9. List the advantages of making field system rotating and armature stationary in case of a alternator.
10. What is meant by ‘full pitch’ and ‘fractional pitch’ windings?
11. What are the advantages of using, ‘fractional pitch’ windings?
12. What is meant by distribution factor and how does it effects the generated emf of an alternator.
13. What are the advantages of using distributed winding in alternators.
14. Explain distribution factor and pitch factor in AC winding.
or
Explain the terms ‘breadth factor’ and ‘Pitch factor’ in case of alternator winding.
15. Why are double layer windings preferred over single layer winding in AC machines?
16. In case of AC system, give reasons why special efforts are made to ensure that the generated emf has a
sine wave.
Synchronous Generators or Alternators 621
17. The magnitude of induced emf in a synchronous generator decreases by employing short pitched and
distributed winding but still it is preferred, why?
18. The outer frame of a synchronous machine may not be made of magnetic material (cast iron), state why?
19. Derive an expression for induced emf for an alternator.
20. Prove that a three-phase supply when given to a three-phase winding produces a rotating magnetic field
of constant magnitude.
21. State what is the effect of armature current in an alternator on the main field:
(i) When it is in phase with the no-load induced emf
(ii) When it lags the no-load emf by 90°.
(iii) When it leads the no-load emf by 90°.
22. Explain the term (Armature reaction). Explain armature reaction both at lagging power factor and leading
power factor.
23. A pure inductive load is connected to a three-phase synchronous machine. Show by current and flux
distribution in the machine and vector diagram, the effect of this load on the terminal voltage.
24. State the causes of voltage drop in an alternator.
25. Explain the term synchronous impedance of an alternator.
26. Draw the open circuit and short circuit characteristics of a synchronous generator. Explain the shape of
the characteristics.
27. Draw the equivalent circuit of an alternator.
28. Draw the vector (phasor) diagram of a loaded alternator for unity, lagging and leading power factor.
29. Using phasor diagram, show how will you determine the induced emf in an alternator when the terminal
voltage. armature resistance drop and armature reactance drop are known. Consider that the load is
delivered at (i) unity pf, (ii) lagging pf and (iii) leading pf.
30. Name the factors responsible for making terminal voltage of an alternator less than induced voltage.
Explain them.
31. What do you understand by ‘Voltage regulation’ in the case of alternator?
32. Explain synchronous reactance and synchronous impedance in case of an alternator. How do they effect
the regulation of an alternator?
33. Modern alternators are designed to have large leakage reactance and very small armature resistance
why?
34. Alternators do have negative regulation, state and explain why?
35. Draw the load characteristics of an alternator for different load power factor and describe it.
36. What do you mean by short-circuit ratio (SCR )? Show that SCR is reciprocal of synchronous impedance
in pu.
37. Why do the modern alternators are designed with a high value of SCR?
38. Describe how OC and SC tests are performed on an alternator in the laboratory. How will you be in position
to determine voltage regulation from these test?
39. Describe the mmf method of determining the voltage regulation of an alternator.
40. Make a comparison between synchronous impedance method and ampere-turn method of determining
voltage regulation of an alternator which method will you prefer and why?
622 Electrical Machines
41. Explain the experimental method of separating stator leakage reactance drop and drop due to armature
reaction, when the alternator is loaded.
42. Describe the Potier method of determining the voltage regulation of an alternator.
43. Define and explain two reaction theory applicable to salient pole alternators.
44. Describe the method of determining direct and quadrature axis reactance of a salient pole synchronous
generator.
45. What do you understand by the terms direct-axis synchronous reactance and quadrature-axis synchronous
reactance of a three-phase salient pole synchronous generator?
46. Describe the experimental method for determining the direct-axis and quadrature axis synchronous
reactances of a salient pole alternator.
47. Using two reaction theory, derive an expression for finding voltage regulation of a salient pole alternator.
Also draw the phasor diagram.
48. Describe the slip test method for determining the value of direct-axis and quadrature-axis synchronous
reactances of a synchronous machine.
49. Draw the phasor diagram of a salient pole synchronous generator delivering a load at lagging pf and
explain it.
50. Derive an expression for the power developed by a non-salient pole alternator as a function of power
angle, neglecting armature resistance.
51. Derive an expression for power developed by a salient pole alternator as a function of load angle.
52. A salient pole alternator is supplying power at its rated value with lagging power factor, draw and explain
its phasor diagram, also show that
2 È ˘
P = EV sin d + V Í 1 - 1 ˙ sin 2 d
Xd 2 Î Xq X d ˚
53. Which losses incur in a synchronous generator? How these losses are determined?
54. Why do we need to cool down the alternators? Describe the different methods by which alternators are
cooled down.
55. What are the advantages of hydrogen as a cooling medium as compared to air?
56. What precautions are taken while using hydrogen as a cooling medium for cooling of synchronous
generators?
CHAPTER
Parallel Operation
of Alternators 7
Chapter Objectives
After the completion of this unit, students/readers will be able to understand:
Why alternators are required to be operated in parallel?
What are requirements for parallel operation of alternators?
What conditions are required to be fulfilled for proper synchronising?
What are the different methods by which alternators are synchronised?
How load is shifted from one alternator to the other?
How load is shared between the alternators?
What is synchronising current, power and torque?
What is the effect of change is input power, excitation, reactance and governor’s characteristics?
What is hunting? What are its ill-effects? And how it can be reduced? Working of synchronous
machine depends?
Introduction
To meet with the ever increasing demand of electrical power, it is economical and advisable to run
number of generating units in parallel. Although a single larger unit used to meet with the demand
is more economical but it reduces the reliability. In fact, there are a number of good reasons to
use number of smaller units operating in parallel to meet with the existing demand. In the present
scenario, not only the number of units placed at one generating station are operated in parallel rather
all the other units placed at the other generating stations which are interconnected are also operating
in parallel with each other.
In this chapter, we shall study different aspect of parallel operation of alternators or synchronous
generators.
When number of alternators are connected to same bus-bars, they are called to be connected
in parallel.
Such practice is considered necessary for the following reasons:
1. Physical size: The output power of modern power stations is so high that it is difficult to build
a single unit of that capacity.
2. Reliability or continuity of service: Several small units are more reliable than a single large unit
because if one unit fails, the continuity of supply can be maintained by operating the other units.
3. Repair and maintenance: Repair and maintenance of a unit is more convenient and economical
if a large number of smaller units are installed at the power station.
4. Size and cost of stand-by unit: Since each unit is of smaller size, the cost of stand by unit is small.
5. Extension of power plant: The additional unit can be installed as and when the load demand
increases.
6. Operating efficiency: Moreover, the load on the power station varies greatly both during day and
night as well as during the different seasons. Thus the number of units operating at a particular
time can be varied depending upon the load at that time. This keeps the machines loaded upto
their rated capacity and hence results in increase in efficiency of operation as the efficiency of
an electrical machine is maximum at or near rated capacity.
2. The voltage of the incoming alternator should be in phase opposition to the bus-bar voltage.
This implies that there will be no circuiting current between the windings of the alternators
already connected to bus-bars and the incoming alternator.
3. The speed of the incoming alternator must be such that its frequency is equal to that of bus-bar
frequency.
4. In case of three-phase alternators the phase of the incoming alternator must be identical with
the phase of the bus-bars. In other words, the phase sequence of the incoming alternator must
be same as that of the bus-bars.
Before studying the practical method of synchronising the alternators, we must be clear about the
situation that will arise if the above conditions are not achieved. Considering only two single-phase
alternators connected to the common bus-bars operating in parallel as shown in Fig. 7.1. A load is
connected to the bus-bars. There are two circuits to which current can be supplied by the alternators.
One circuit is the external load and the other is local internal circuit i.e., synchronous impedance
of the two alternators.
For the external circuit (i.e., load), the terminal voltage of the two alternators are equal and in
phase with each other as shown in Fig. 7.2 (a) and the alternators share the load current as per their
respective ratings.
Considering first and second condition, for correct synchronising, the terminal voltage of the
incoming alternator must be equal and opposite (180° out of phase) to the voltage of the alternator
already connected to the bus-bars with respect to the internal circuit as shown in Fig. 7.2 (b). Thus
the resultant voltage is zero and no current circulates in the internal circuit. But if these conditions
are not fulfilled i.e., the two voltages are not equal to each other in magnitude as shown in Fig. 7.2
(c), a resultant voltage Er appears which will result in a circulating current Is in the local circuit.
This circulating current lags behind the resultant voltage Er by 90° since the opposition of the local
Parallel Operation of Alternators 629
circuit is only synchronous reactance of the two alternators as resistance is neglected. Moreover, the
circulating current will load the two alternators, without supplying any power to the external load.
Another condition can be when the voltage of second alternator is equal to the bus-bar voltage
in magnitude but it is not out of phase by 180°, as shown in Fig. 7.2 (d). In this case also a resultant
voltage Er acts to circulate current Is in the internal circuit of the alternators.
Considering third condition, for correct synchronising, the frequency of the incoming alternator
must be the same as that of the frequency of the alternator already connected to the bus-bars i.e.,
the vectors representing the two voltages must rotate at the same speed. But if this condition is not
fulfilled, one of the vectors rotates at speed higher or lesser than the other vector (say vector V2 is
rotating at a speed higher than vector V1). The position of the two vectors at different three instants
is shown in Fig. 7.3. Thus, the voltages of the two alternators will come in phase and go out of phase.
This will happen at the rate equal to the difference of the frequencies of the two alternators. Because
of this for local circuit, the resultant voltage Er varies from zero to double the voltage (V1 + V2) and
circulates variable current in the local circuit.
Fig. 7.3 When frequency of the incoming alternator is more than the existing
The prime-mover of alternator B is started and its speed is brought up near to the rated speed.
The field winding of the alternator is then excited by DC source. The excitation is then increased to
raise the voltage of the alternator equal to that of the bus-bar voltage.
Parallel Operation of Alternators 631
If the frequency of the incoming alternator B is not equal to the frequency of alternator A,
already connected to the bus-bars (i.e., f b ≠ fa), a phase difference will exit between the voltages.
This phase difference will be continuously changing, and therefore, the current flowing through
the local circuit (shown dotted) and the synchronising lamps L1 and L2 will go on changing. As a
result the lamps will become alternately bright and dark which produces flickering of lamps. The
frequency of flickering of lamps will be equal to the difference of frequencies ( f b – fa or fa – f b)
of the two alternators. The flickering of the lamps will be rapid when there is large difference in
frequencies and slow when the frequencies are nearly equal. To reduce the flickering, the speed of
incoming alternator is adjusted..
If the voltage of incoming alternator is not equal to or in phase opposition to the bus-bar voltage,
a resultant voltage will appear across the two lamps L1 and L2. Thus, the lamps will not be totally
dark. The voltage can also be checked by connecting voltmeters across the two alternators as shown
in Fig. 7.4. The voltage of the incoming alternator is made equal to the bus-bar voltage by adjusting
its excitation.
Hence, to synchronise the alternator to the bus-bars, its speed is adjusted until the lamps flickering
reduces to almost zero and, its terminal voltage is made equal to the bus-bar voltage by adjusting
the excitation. Then synchronising switch is closed in the middle of the dark period.
Limitations
The lamps can be dark even though a considerable voltage may exist across their terminals; therefore,
it is difficult to judge the correct instant of zero voltage in the dark lamp method. Keeping in view of
this difficulty, some engineers prefer to synchronise the alternators by bright lamp method because
of the fact that lamps are much more sensitive to change of voltages at their maximum brightness
than when they are quite dark.
If the voltage of the incoming alternator is not equal to that of bus-bar voltage and the other
conditions are fulfilled, all the lamps will flow with equal brightness and will continue to attain the
Parallel Operation of Alternators 633
same brightness. The ideal condition can be achieved by adjusting the excitation of the incoming
alternator B.
The disadvantage of this method is that a lamp can be dark even though a considerable voltage
may exist across its terminals and if the alternators are connected at this instant, this may cause
considerable disturbance to high speed turbine-driven alternator. Therefore, in this case voltmeter is
also connected across the synchronising switch as shown in Fig. 7.5. The other disadvantage of this
method is that the flickering of lamps does not indicate whether the incoming alternator is slow or
fast. These difficulties are eliminated in two bright and one dark lamp method.
Fig. 7.6 Phasor diagram when V2 = V1; f 2 = f1 and phase sequence is incorrect
Fig. 7.7 Phasor diagram when V2 = V1 and phase sequence is correct but f 2 < f1
When the frequencies of the incoming alternator are different from that of bus-bar frequency and
the remaining conditions are fulfilled, then the three lamps will flicker alternately (i.e., one after
the other in sequence). There can be two different conditions i.e., either the incoming alternator is
running too fast or too slow.
If the incoming alternator C is running too fast, then the vector diagram R¢Y¢B¢ will rotate faster
than RYB. Because of this voltage across lamp L1 is increasing, across L2 is decreasing and across L3
is increasing as shown in Fig. 7.9. representing two instants (a) and (b). The lamps will then become
bright or flicker one after the other in the order L3, L1, L2, L3, L1, L2, etc. To distinguish the sequence
of flickering of lamps, the lamps are generally placed on the vertices of an equilateral triangle as
shown in Fig. 7.10.
Fig. 7.8 Phasor diagram when V2 = V1; f 2 = f1 Fig. 7.9 Incoming alternator is running
and phase sequence is correct two fast (f 2 > f1)
On the other hand, if the incoming alternator is too slow, then the vector diagram RcYcBc will rotate
slower than RYB. Because of this, voltage across lamp L1 is increasing, across L2 is increasing and
across L3 is decreasing as shown in Fig. 7.11. But in this case, lamps will become bright or flicker
one after the other in the order L2, L1, L3, L2 L1, L3, etc., as shown in Fig. 7.12.
Thus in case of two bright and one dark lamp method, the sequence of flickering of the lamps will
indicate whether the incoming alternator is too fast or too slow, accordingly the speed is adjusted
to minimise the flickering of the lamps.
However, if the phase sequence is not correct all the three lamps will flicker in unison. Then the
phase sequence should be corrected by interchanging any two leads of the incoming alternator at
the synchronising switch.
Parallel Operation of Alternators 635
Fig. 7.11 Incoming alternator is running two slow Fig. 7.12 Lamps placed on the
vertices of an equilateral triangle
If the voltage of the incoming alternator is not equal to that of bus voltage and the other conditions
are satisfied, all the lamps will flow with different brightness and will continue to attain the same
brightness. The ideal condition can be achieved by adjusting the excitation of the incoming alternator.
Thus when the flickering frequency is minimised to zero, lamp L1 is totally dark and L2 and
L3 are equally bright the synchronising switch should be closed.
The lamp methods are only suitable for small low voltage alternators. For large capacity, high
voltage alternators, a sychroscope is almost invariably used for synchronising.
The greater will be the movement of the pointer. If the incoming alternator runs slower the pointer
rotates in anti-clockwise direction and if the incoming alternator runs faster its pointer rotates in
clockwise direction.
.
Fig. 7.13 Synchronising of three-phase alternators by using synchroscope
The speed of the incoming alternator is now adjusted until the pointer assumes a vertical position
and thus indicates that the two alternators can be put into synchronism. At this instant 3 pole paralleling
switch P.S. is closed.
The most important point, to be emphasised, is that load cannot be shifted from one machine to
the other by adjusting the excitation. Once the alternator is connected to the bus-bars, the change in
excitation only changes the power factor of the alternator it does not affect the load sharing.
Let E1 and E 2 be the induced emf/phase of the two machines I and II, respectively, Z S1 and
Z S2 be the impedance/phase of two machines I and II, respectively, whereas I1 and I2 be the current
supplied by the two machines, respectively.
Z = load impedance/phase
Now, V = E 1 - I 1 Z S1 = E 2 - I 2 Z S 2
E2 - V
I 1 = E1 - V and I 2 =
Z S1 Z S2
I = I 1 + I 2 = E1 - V + E 2 - V
Z S1 Z S2
Also, V = I 1 Z = ( I 1 + I 2 )Z
Also, V = E1 - V + E 2 - V
Z Z S1 Z S2
E1 + E 2
È1 1 1 ˘ E E Z Z S2
VÍ + + ˙ = 1 + 2 or V = S1
Î Z Z S1 Z S2 ˚ Z S1 Z S2 1 + 1 + 1
Z Z S1 Z S 2
E1 - E 2
Circulating current on no-load, I C =
Z S1 + Z S 2
638 Electrical Machines
Example 7.1
A lighting load of 2000 kW and a motor load of 4000 kW at 0.8 pf lagging are supplied by two
alternators operating in parallel. If one of them is delivering a load of 2400 kW at 0.95 pf lagging,
what will the output and pf of the other alternator.
Solution:
Lighting load, P1 = 2000 kW
Power factor, cos I1 = 1; tan I1 = tan cos–1 1 = 0
Motor load, P2 = 4000 kW
Power factor, cos I2 = 0·8 lag; tan I2 = tan cos–1 0·8 = 0·75
Power supplied by machine ‘A’, PA = 2400 kW
Power factor of machine ‘A’ cos IA = 0·95; tan IA = tan cos–1 0·95 = 0·3287
Reactive of lightning load, Pr1 = P1 tan I1 = 0
Reactive of power of motor load, Pr2 = P2 tan I2 = 4000 × 0·75 = 3000 kVAR
Total load, P = P1 + P2 = 2000 + 4000 = 6000 kW
Total reactive power, Pr = Pr1 + Pr2 = 0 + 3000 = 3000 kVAR
Reactive power of machine ‘A’, PrA = PA tan IA = 2400 × 0·3287 = 788·84 kVAR
Power supplied by machine ‘B’ PB = P – PA = 6000 – 2400 = 3600 kW
Reactive power of machine ‘B’, PrB = Pr – PrA = 3000 – 788·84 = 2211·16 kVAR
= 2211 ◊ 15 = 0 ◊ 6142
PrB
? tan IB =
PB 3600
Power factor of machine ‘B’, cos IB = cos tan–1 0·6142 = 0·852 lag
Hence output of second machine is 3600 kW at p.f. 0·852 lagging (Ans.)
Example 7.2
Two synchronous generators are running in parallel and supply a lighting load of 600 kW and a
motor load of 707 kW at 0.707 pf lagging. If one of the machine is supplying 900 kW at 0.9 pf lagging,
what load at what pf is supplied by the other machine?
Solution:
Lighting load, P1 = 600 kW
Motor load, P2 = 707 kW
Motor load p.f., cos I2 = 0·707 lagging
Power supplied by machine ‘A’, PA = 900 kW
Power factor of machine ‘A’, cos IA = 0·9 lagging
Power factor of lighting load, cos I1 = 1
? Reactive power of lighting load, Pr1 = 0
Parallel Operation of Alternators 639
= 271 ◊ 11 = 0 ◊ 6661
PrB
? tan I2 =
PB 407
Power factor of alternator ‘B’, cos IB = cos tan–1 0·6661 = 0·8322 lagging (Ans.)
Example 7.3
Two similar 400V, three-phase, 50 Hz, alternators share equal power jointly delivered to a balance
three-phase, 50 kW, 0·8 p.f. lagging load, If p.f. of one machine is 0·95 lagging, find the current
supplied by the other machine.
Solution:
Total load, P = 50 kW
Load p.f., cos I = 0·8 lagging
Terminal voltage, V = 400 V
cos I = 0·8; tan I = tan cos–1 0·8 = 0·75
Reactive power of the load, Pr = P tan I = 30 × 0·75 = 37·5 kVAR
= 29 ◊ 283 = 1 ◊ 1713
PrB
? tan IB =
P 25
Power factor of machine ‘B’, cos IB = cos tan–1 1·1713 = 0·6493 lagging
640 Electrical Machines
Solution:
Total power supplied, P = 1200 kW
Terminal voltage, V = 2300 V
Current supplied by alternator A, IA = 200 A
Power factor of alternator A, cos IA = 0·9 lagging
Power supplied by alternator A, PA = IAV cos I = 200 × 2300 × 0·9 W = 414 kW
cos IA = 0·9; tan IA = tan cos–1 0·9 = 0·4843
Reactive power supplied by alternator A,
PrA = PA tan IA = 414 × 0·4843 = 200·5 kVAR
Total reactive power, Pr = 0 (∵ p.f. is unity)
Reactive power supplied by alternator B,
PrB = Pr – PrA = 0 – 200·5 = – 200·5 kVAR
Active power supplied by alternator B, PB = P – PA = 1200 – 414 = 786 kW (Ans.)
= -200 ◊ 5 = -0 ◊ 225
PrB
tan IB =
PB 786
Power factor of alternator B, cos IB = cos tan–1 (– 0·255) = 0·969 leading (Ans.)
= 786 ¥ 10
PB 3
Current supplied by alternator B, IB = = 352·67 A (Ans.)
V cosf B 2300 ¥ 0 ◊ 969
Example 7.5
Two three-phase, 6600 V, star-connected alternators working in parallel are supplying the following
loads:
(i) 1500 kW at p.f. 0·75 lagging;
(ii) 1000 kW at p.f. 0·8 lagging;
(iii) 800 kW at p.f. 0·9 lagging;
(iv) 500 kW at unity power factor.
If one of machine is delivering a load of 1800 kW at 0·85 p.f. lagging, what will be the output,
armature current and p.f. of the other machine.
Solution:
Active power of load (i), P1 = 1500 kW
Parallel Operation of Alternators 641
= 1344 ◊ 83 = 0 ◊ 6724
PrB
tan IB =
PB 2000
Power factor of machine, B, cos IB = cos tan–1 0·6724 = 0·8298 lagging (Ans.)
Armature current, IB =
PB
= 2000 ¥ 103
3VB cosf B 3 ¥ 6600 ¥ 0 ◊ 8298
= 210·84 A (Ans.)
Example 7.6
Two alternators working in parallel supply the following loads:
(i) Lighting load of 600 kW;
(ii) Inductive load of 800 kW at 0·9 p.f. lagging;
(iii) Capacitive load of 800 kW at 0·8 p.f. leading.
One alternator is supplying 1000 kW at 0·85 p.f. lagging. Calculate the kW output and p.f. of the
other alternator.
642 Electrical Machines
Solution:
S. No. Load Power (P) p.f. tan I Reactive Power
in kW cos I Pr = P tan I
(i) Lighting load 600 1 0 0
(ii) Inductive load 800 0·9 lagging 0·4843 387·44 kVAR
(iii) Capacitive load 800 0·8 leading 0·75 – 600 kVAR
= - 832 ◊ 3 = -0 ◊ 6932
PrB
tan IB =
PB 1200
Power factor of alternator B, cos IB = cos tan–1 (– 0·6936) = 0·8217 leading (Ans.)
Example 7.7
Two single-phase alternators are connected in parallel and supplying current to a load at a terminal
voltage of 11000 qV$lternator-1 has an induced emf of 13000 qV and a reactance of 3ohm
whereas alternator-II has an emf of 13500 15° V and a reactance of 4 ohm. What will be the current
supplied by each alternator.
Solution:
Here, V = 11000 –0∞ V; E1 = 13000 –20∞ V
E 2 = 13500 –15∞ V; X S1 = 3W and XS2 = 4 W
Current supplied by alternator-I
Example 7.8
Two single phase alternators having induced emf E1 and E2 and impedance Z1 and Z2 are connected
in parallel and supplying a load of impedance Z.
(i) Represent the terminal voltage in terms of alternators emfs E1 and E2 and admittances Y, Y1
and Y2.
(ii) If E1 = 220 V, E 2 = 230 V, Z = 3 + j 4 and Z 1 = Z 2 = (0.2 + j 0.8) ohm , determine the
terminal voltage, circulating current at no-load and power delivered by each alternator in kW.
Solution:
We know, terminal voltage in given by the relation
E1 + E 2
V = Z S1 Z S2
1 + 1 + 1
Z Z S1 Z S2
Y S1 = Y S 2 = 1 = 1
Z 0.2 + j 0.8
S1
1 0.2 - j 0.8
= ¥ = (0.2425 - j 0.97) mho
0.2 + j 0.8 0.2 - j 0.8
(220 + 230)(0.2425 - j 0.97)
V = E 1 Y S1 + E 2 Y S 2 =
Y + Y S1 + Y S 2 ( 0. 12 - j 0.168) + 2(0.2425 - j 0.97)
644 Electrical Machines
109.125 - j 436.5
= = 450 – - 76∞ = 205.2 – - 2∞ volt (Ans)
(0.605 - j 2.108 2.193– - 74∞
= (205.075 – j7.16) V
Circulating current at no-load
IC = E 2 - E1 = 230 - 220 = 10 = 10
Z S1 + Z S 2 2(0.2 + j 0.8) 0.4 + j1.6 1.65–76∞
= 6.06 –76°A (Ans)
Current supplied to the load by alternator I
Example 7.9
A three-phase,10 MVA, 11 kV, 50 Hz alternator hawing 10% reactance is connected to a substation
by a line having a reactance of 3.8 : Another three-phase 20 MVA, 11 kV, 50 Hz alternator having
15% reactance is connected to the same substation through a line having a reactance of 4.1 :. The
substation is supplying a load of impedance (50 + j40):.
If the generated emf of alternator I and II is 10 kV and 12 kV, respectively, and the emf of alternator I
leads the emf of alternator II by 10° electrical, what will be the current delivered by each alternator.
Solution:
The circuit shown in Fig. 7.14.
I1 = 10 ¥ 106 = 525 A
3 ¥ 11 ¥ 103
I2 = 20 ¥ 106 = 1050 A
3 ¥ 11 ¥ 103
I 1 – I 2 = E1 – E 2 (since Z 1 = Z 2 or X1 = X 2 = 5 W)
Z1
(5686+j1003) – (6928+j 0) –1242 + j1003
= =
j5 j5
= (200.6 + j 248.4) A …(iii)
Adding eqn. (i) and (ii), we get,
(5686 + j1003) + (6928 + j 0)
I 1 + I 2 = E1 + E 2 =
2 Z + Z1 2(50 + j 40) + j 5
12614 + j1003 12654 + –4.54∞
= =
100 + j85 131.25–40.36∞
= 96.41– - 35.82∞
= (78.18 - j 56.42) A …(iv)
Adding eqn.(iii) and (iv), we get
I 1 = (139.39 + j 98) A = 170.4 –35∞ = 170.4 A (Ans.)
I 2 = (65.7 + j152.4) A = 166 –66.67∞ = 166 A (Ans.)
3. Two single-phase alternators are connected in parallel and supplying current to a load at a terminal voltage
of 11000 0°V. Alternator-1 has an induced emf of 13000 20° V and a reactance of 3 ohm whereas
alternator-II has an emf of 13500 15° V and a reactance of 4 ohm. What will be the current supplied by
each alternator. (Ans. 2700 –21.8°; 2500– 0° $)
Q.2. What conditions are required to be fulfilled for parallel operation of alternators?
Ans. Terminal voltage, frequency and the phase (or phase sequence) of the incoming alternator must be the
same as that of the existing alternator or the bus-bars.
Q.3. For synchronising of three-phase alternators; which method is preferred, dark lamp method or
one-dark and two-bright lamp method?
Ans. One-dark and two-bright lamp method is preferred.
( )
= 2E cos 90 - q = 2E sin q
2 2
? Synchronising current, Is = Eq
Xs
Synchronising Power
In the above case, because of synchronising current, first alternator will supply extra power known
as synchronising power.
Synchronising power, Ps = E1 Is cos I1 (per phase)
= E1Is (∵ I1 is very small)
= E Is (since E1 = E)
2
= E Eq = E q
Xs Xs
2
Synchronising power for three-phase = 3Ps = 3 E q watt
Xs
Parallel Operation of Alternators 649
Synchronising Torque
Let Ts be the synchronising torque in Nm and Ns be the synchronous speed in rpm, then total
synchronising power;
2p N s
3Ps = Ts ¥
60
3Ps ¥ 60
? Synchronising torque, Ts = Nm
2p N s
If input power (steam supply or water supply or fuel supply) to alternator ‘A’ is increased, it will
increase the torque angle G1 to G1c (since input power is proportional to Gneglecting losses). Thus the
emf E1 of the alternator ‘A’ attains a new position as shown in Fig. 7.18 and a resultant emf Er appears
across the local circuit which circulates synchronising current Is. This synchronising current lags
behind the resultant emf Er by 90°. The current-delivered by alternator ‘A’ increases to I1¢ and the
current delivered by alternator ‘B” decreases to I 2¢ . The power factor of the two alternators also
changes to cos f1¢ and cos f2¢ , respectively.
Fig. 7.18 Phasor diagram when input to one of the alternator is increased
650 Electrical Machines
Thus, the increase in power input to prime-mover of alternator ‘A’, increases the kW output of
alternator ‘A’ and decreases that of alternator ‘B’ by the same amount. If this process is continued,
a point may reach where output power of alternator ‘A’ becomes more than the total load supplied,
then the alternator ‘B’ instead of supplying load will start drawing power from alternator ‘A’. Hence,
the alternator A will start working as a motor. The load sharing diagram of the two alternators is
shown in Fig. 7.19 (b).
Fig. 7.20 Phasor diagram when excitation of one of the alternator is increased.
‘A’ is increased, the reactive power (kVAR1) shared by this alternator will increase while the
reactive power (kVAR2) shared by alternator ‘B’ will decreased by the same amount. The load sharing
diagram of the two alternators is shown in Fig. 7.21.
Parallel Operation of Alternators 651
(a) Machines having negligible resistance (b) Machines having negligible reactance
with respect to reactance with respect to resistance
Fig. 7.22 Pharos diagram for the internal circuit of two synchronous machine operating in parallel
Considering that the two machines are having only resistance and negligible reactance. Their
emfs E1 and E2 are practically in phase opposition, as shown in Fig. 7.22(a) and their resultant emf
Er is in quadrature with E1 and E2. The synchronising current IS [ IS = Er /(R1 + R2)] will be in phase
with Er but in quadrature with E1 and E2. Hence, no real power is transferred from one machine to
the other since the synchronising current is the wattless current (needs help for synchronisation).
Now, considering that the two machines are having large reactance as compared to resistance.
The synchronising current IS will lag behind the resultant voltage Er by 90° as shown in Fig. 7.22
(b), this synchronising current IS will develop a real power E1 IS cos q which will be delivered by
one machine to the other, Hence, one machine works as a generator and the other works as a motor.
This causes the machine to restore synchronism.
Conclusion
From the above discussions, it is concluded that machines must have high reactance for satisfactory
parallel operation of synchronous generators.
652 Electrical Machines
In Fig. 7.23 The speed-load characteristics of three alternator I, II and III each of same rating
(say 5 MVA), are shown. The speed-load characteristics of alternator I and II are identical but that
of alternator III are different.
Let us see how speed-load characteristics affect the load sharing when they are connected is
parallel. Consider that alternator I and II are operating in parallel and both of them are supplying
their rated full load of 4MW (say the pf of the load is 0.8 lagging). If the load on the system decreases
( say from 8MW to 6MW), as shown in Fig. 7.23 (a) the frequency of both the alternators increases
momentarily but equal load (3MW each) is shared by them.
Now, consider that alternator I and III are operating in parallel and both of them are supplying
their rated full load of 4MW (say the pf of the load is 0.8 lagging). If the load on the system decreases
(say from 8 MW to 6MW), as shown in Fig. 7.24(b), the frequency of both the alternators increases
momentarily but they are not sharing the load equally, alternator I is sharing less load than the
alternator III as shown in Fig. 7.24 (b).
Hence, it is concluded that the speed-load characteristics play their role. Therefore, the governess
placed on the alternators must be very sensitive so that they bring the alternators to operate at their
rated frequency and share the load as per their rating.
7.16 Hunting
When a synchronous machine is loaded, the rotor poles slightly fall back in position with respect to
the stator field (poles) by an angle G known as power angle or torque angle or retarding angle. As
the load is gradually increased, this angle G also increases gradually so as to produce more torque
for coping with the increased load. If the load is suddenly thrown off, angle G decreases suddenly
and the rotor poles are pulled into almost exact opposition to the stator poles, but due to inertia of
rotor and rotor poles travel too far. They are then pulled back again, and so on, thus oscillations are
set up around the equilibrium position, corresponding to new load.
The oscillation of the rotor about its equilibrium position is known as hunting.
Hunting effect produces heavy mechanical tresses in the machine parts particularly on the bearings.
Therefore effort are made to prevent hunting
The hunting (oscillations) can be prevented by providing damper winding on the rotor pole faces
in case of salient pole alternators. This damper winding consists of number of copper or aluminium
bars embedded into the slots provided on the outer periphery of the pole shoes and then short circuited
by end rings. When hunting takes place, there is relative motion of the rotor with respect to the stator
field, which sets up eddy currents in this winding which flow in such a way that it suppresses the
oscillations. Hunting can also be reduced by placing heavy flywheels on the shaft and putting dash-
pots on the engine governors.
However, non-salient pole of alternators used in steam-fed power plants do not have the tendency
to hunt.
The hunting also occurs when the machine operates as a motor. In this case also because of
sudden change in load oscillations are set up in the rotor called hunting; which can be prevented by
providing damper winding on the rotor.
Example 7.10
Determine the synchronising power and synchronising torque per mechanical degree of rotor
displacement at no-load of a 2.5 MVA, three-phase, six-pole synchronous generator connected to
6000V, 50Hz bus-bars. The synchronous reactance of the machine is 5 ohm per phase.
Solution:
Here, rating of alternator = 2.5MVA; VL = 6000V; P = 6; XS 5 : f = 50Hz
VL
Phase voltage, E = V = = 6000 = 3464 V
3 3
654 Electrical Machines
Ps ¥ 60 377258 ¥ 60
Synchronising torque, Ts = =
2p N s 2p ¥ 1000
Example 7.11
A three-phase, 6 MVA, 50Hz alternator has a synchronous reactance of 0.4 pu. it is running at
1500 rpm and excited to give 11kV. Calculate the synchronising torque for per degree mechanical
displacement.
Solution:
Here, Rating of alternator = 6 MVA; f = 50 Hz; EL = 11 kV NS= 1500 rpm; XS= 0.4 pu
E
Phase voltage, E = L = 11000 = 6351 V
3 3
MVA ¥ 106 6 ¥ 106
Full-load current, I = = = 315 A
3 EL ¥ 103 3 ¥ 11 ¥ 103
Now, IXS = 0.4 of 6351
0.4 ¥ 6351
? XS = = 8.065 :
315
120 f 120 ¥ 50
No. of poles of the machine, P = = = 4
NS 1500
Example 7.12
What will be synchronising power developed in a three-phase synchronous generator for one
mechanical degree of displacement from its equilibrium position. The synchronous generator
is connected to 11 kV infinite bus-bars and having the following data: Rated capacity =5 MVA;
Frequency, f = 50 Hz; Number of poles, P = 8; synchronous reactance = 25%
Also determine the corresponding value of the synchronising torque.
Solution:
EL
Phase voltage, E = = 11000 = 6351 V
3 3
Solution:
Alternator is three-phase, star connected
Rating of alternator, = 3000 kVA = 3000 × 103 VA
No. of poles, P = 6
Synchronous speed, Ns = 1000 rpm
Terminal voltage (line value), VL = 3300 V
Solution:
For parallel operation of two alternators having same number of poles, the speed of both should be
the same. When each machine is fully loaded, the operating points are A and B (see Fig. 7.25). When
the total load is reduced to 75 MW, let the speed rises to some value x% of the full load speed. Now
the operating points of alternator I and II are shifted to F and E.
3– x 3– x
= 50 ¥ = 50 – ...(i)
3 3
From similar triangles BDO and FDG
FG = GD
BO OD
OD – OG 2–x
or FG = BO ¥ = 50 ¥ = 50 – 25 x ...(ii)
OD 2
Adding (i) and (ii)
(EG + GF) = 50 - 50 x + 50 – 2 x
3
or 75 = 100 - 125 x
3
or x = 0·6
From equation (i), load shared by alternator II
EG = 50 - 50 ¥ 0 ◊ 6 = 50 - 10 = 40 MW (Ans.)
3
From equation (ii), load shared by alternator I.
FG = 50 – 25 × 0·6 = 35 MW (Ans.)
Example 7.15
The two alternators I and II having a full-load capacity of 500 kW each are operating in parallel.
Their speed regulation is 100% to 104% and 100% to 105% from full-load to no-load, respectively.
How they will share a load of 600 kW. Also find the load at which one machine ceases to supply
any load?
Solution:
When each alternator is operating at full-load, the operating points are A and B, as shown in Fig. 7.26
When the total load is reduced to 600 kW, let the speed be raised to (100 + x)% Now the operating
points of alternator I and II are E and F.
Solution:
The frequency-load curves of both the alternators I and II are shown in Fig. 7.27.
When each machine is fully loaded, their operating points are A and B, respectively. When the
load of the system is 30 kW, let the operating points of the two machines be E and F, respectively.
At this instant, let the load shared by alternator I be x kW, then;
Considering similar triangles OAC and OEG
OG = OC or OG = EG ¥ OC
EG AC AC
or OG = x ¥ 2 = 2 x …(i)
25 25
Parallel Operation of Alternators 659
Example 7.17
The drop characteristics of the governors of two alternators having rating 300 MW and 400 MW
operating in parallel are of 3% and 4%, respectively. If the generators operate at no-load at 50 Hz.
What will be the frequency at which they would operate with a total load of 600 MW. Also comment
on the results.
Solution:
The frequency-load curves of both the alternators I and II are shown in Fig. 7.28
Al full-load,
50 ¥ 3
Frequency of alternator I = 50 – = 48.5 Hz
100
50 ¥ 4
Frequency of alternator II = 50 – = 48 Hz
100
When each machine is fully loaded, the operating points are A and B, respectively. When the load
on the system is 600 MW let the frequency be x Hz.
4. Two three-phase 40 MW synchronous generator I and II are operating in parallel. Their speed regulation
is 100% to 104% and 100% to 103% from full-load to no-load, respectively. How they will share a load
of 60 MW. Also find the load at which one machine ceases to supply any load?
(Ans. 31.43 MW, 28.57 MW, 10 MW)
5. The settings of governors of two identical three-phase alternators are operating in parallel are such that
the frequency of first alternator drops uniformly from 50 Hz on no-load to 48 Hz on full-load of 20 kW,
whereas, in second alternator the frequency drops uniformly from 50 Hz on no-load to 47.5 Hz on full-load
of 20 kW. How will they share a load of 30 kW. (Ans. 13.33 kW, 16.67 kW)
Q.2. Will an increase in excitation of an alternator connected to infinite bus-bars increase its real power
generation?
Ans. No, real power generation will not be affected, it will remain the same.
Q.3. What do you understand by synchronising power and what is its significance?
Ans. When the equilibrium of a synchronous generator connected to infinite bus-bars in disturbed due to any
reason, a synchronising current flows through it which develops synchronising power. The tendency
of the synchronising power is to bring the machine back in to synchronism.
Q.4. How can the load sharing between the alternators operating in parallel be changed?
Ans. The load sharing between the alternators operating in parallel can be changed by adjusting the input
power to their prime-movers.
Q.5. Do the non-salient pole type of alternators employed at steam power plants have a tendency to
hunt?
Ans. No, they don’t have the tendency to hunt.
Review Questions
1. Explain what you understand by Infinite Bus-bars.
2. What are the advantages of connecting alternators in parallel? What conditions are required to be fulfilled
before connecting an alternator in parallel with the existing alternators?
3. What is the necessity of parallel operation of alternators? What conditions are required to be satisfied
before connecting an alternator to the infinite bus-bars.
4. What are necessary conditions for parallel operation of three-phase alternators?
662 Electrical Machines
or
State the necessary conditions which must be satisfied before an incoming alternator is switched ON
with other alternator already working in parallel.
5. What is meant by synchronising? What are the various methods of synchronisation. Explain any one of
them.
6. Describe “One dark and two bright” lamp method of synchronising two three-phase alternators.
7. Explain the term synchronising. Discuss any one methods of synchronising of 1-phase alternators.
8. Explain with diagram any one method of synchronising of two three-phase alternators
9. What are the advantages of connecting the three synchronising lamps in a manner so as to give one dark
and two birght instead of all dark at a time while synchronising an alternator?
10. Discuss the use of synchroscope in the parallel operation of three-phase alternators.
11. An alternator has just been synchronised and is floating on the bus-bars. What steps will you take to make
it share load? Justify your answer with the help of a phasor diagram.
12. What steps should be taken before an alternator is switched off from infinite bus-bars?
13. Derive an expression for synchronising power and torque when two alternators are running in Parallel.
14. Two identical alternators are running in parallel sharing equal load. What is the effect on their load sharing
if:
(i) Field excitation of one of the alternators is increased.
(ii) Input power of one of the alternators is increased.
15. Explain the effect of change in excitation of a synchronous generator connected to an infinite bus-bars.
16. If two alternators are operating in parallel, what is the effect on the phasor of their induced emf of
increasing the torque of one of the prime mover driving one of them. Show that the resultant emf produces
a circulating current called synchronising current and the action of this current is such that it makes the
parallel operation of alternators a conditions of stable equilibrium.
17. Two alternators with negligible synchronous reactances as compared to their resistances are Connected
in parallel. Will they be in position to run successfully? Justify you answer.
18. Explain the factors that affect the load sharing between the two synchronous generators running in
Parallel.
19. What do you understand by ‘power angle’ of a synchronous generator? Will it increase or decrease if the
input to the prime-mover of the machine connected to infinite bus-bar is Increased? Justify your answer.
20. Drive the condition for maximum power output of a synchronous generator connected to an infinite bus
and operating at constant excitation.
21. “Synchronous reactance is necessary for the flow of synchronising power’. Justify the statement.
22. How does change in the excitation of the alternator connected to infinite bus-bars affect the operation?
23. How does change in the driving torque of the alternator connected to infinite bus-bars affect the operation.
24. “It is desirable to adjust the frequency of the incoming machine slightly higher than that of the bus with
which it is to be connected”. Justify the statement.
Parallel Operation of Alternators 663
25. What do you understand by hunting in synchronous generators? What are the ill-effects of hunting. How
hunting can be minimised?
9. Two alternators each having 4% speed regulation are working in parallel. Alternator 1 is rated 12 MW and
alternator 2 is rated 8 MW. When the total load is 12 MW, the load shared by alternators 1 and 2 would
be, respectively
(a) 4 MW and 8 MW. (b) 8MW and 4 MW.
(c) 4.8 MW and 7.2 MW. (c) 12 MW and zero.
10. The following data pertaining to two alternators working in parallel and supplying a total load of 75 MW:
Machine 1: 50 MVA with 5% speed regulation
Machine 2: 75 MVA with 5% speed regulation
The load sharing between machine 1 and 2 will be
(a) 45 MW and 30 MW (b) 40 MW and 35 MW
(c) 35 MW and 40 MW (d) 30 MW and 45 MW
11. An infinite bus-bar has
(a) constant voltage. (b) constant frequency.
(c) constant current (d) both (a) and (b).
CHAPTER
Synchronous Motors 8
Chapter Objectives
After the completion of this unit, students/readers will be able to understand:
What is the basic principle of operation of a synchronous motor?
How synchronous motor operates on load?
How to determine relation between supply voltage V and excitation voltage E.
What are the different torques developed in a synchronous motor?
How to draw a power flow diagram of a synchronous motor?
What is the effect of change in excitation when load on the machine is kept constant?
What is the effect of change in load when excitation is kept constant?
What are V-curves and inverted V-curves.
What are the different methods by which a synchronous motor is made self-starting?
How a synchronous motor is used to improve the pf of a system?
What are the important characteristics and applications of synchronous motors?
How synchronous motors are compared with induction motors?
Introduction
The same synchronous machine can be used as a generator or as a motor. When it converts mechanical
power or energy into electric power or energy, it is called a synchronous generator. On the other hand,
when it converts electric power or energy into mechanical power or energy, it is called a synchronous
motor.
For instance, if two alternators A and B are operating in parallel and the power input to one of
the alternator say ‘A’ is increased, it starts delivering more power. Since the demand of the load is
unaltered, the alternator ‘B’ will thus be relieved off load by an equal amount. If this process is
continued till output power of alternator ‘A’ becomes more than the total load supplied, then the
alternator ‘B’ instead of supplying power starts receiving power from the bus-bars. Thus, the machine
starts working as a motor. However, when two alternators A and B (or any number of alternators) are
operating in parallel and the driving force (power input) of any one of them is removed, it continues to
run as a motor by receiving power from the other alternator (or bus bars).
Thus, the machine starts working as a motor and is called synchronous motor.
666 Electrical Machines
8.2(c). A continuous force of attraction between stator and rotor poles exists. This is called magnetic
locking. Once the magnetic locking is obtained, the rotor poles are dragged by the stator revolving
field (imaginary poles) and a continuous torque is obtained. As the rotor poles are dragged by the
stator revolving field, hence the rotor rotates at the same speed as that of stator revolving field, i.e.,
synchronous speed.
Thus, a synchronous motor only runs at a constant speed called synchronous speed.
However, in actual machine some losses are always present with the result induced emf E falls
back by an angle G0 relative to the stator poles as shown in Fig. 8.3(b). This causes a resultant voltage
Er across the armature circuit and motor draws no-load current I0 (I0 = Er /Zs) from the mains. This
X
no-load current lags behind the resultant voltage by an angle T where T = tan–1 S ; XS is the
R
668 Electrical Machines
synchronous reactance and R is the resistance of armature (stator winding). Since resistance is very
small as compared to synchronous reactance, therefore angle T is nearly 90°. The power drawn by
the motor at no-load is VI0 cos I0 which is sufficient to meet with the losses and make the motor
running continuously at synchronous speed.
d0
N
ws
ws S
+
E Er
d0
+
O f0 V
N
I0 +S
(a) Phasor diagram (b) Position of poles with displacement
However, when load is applied through the shaft on the motor, the rotor poles fall back a little
more (angle G) relative to stator poles as shown in Fig. 8.5(b). Hence the torque angle increases to G
with the increase in load. This increases the resultant voltage Er which in turn increases the current
I (I = E r /Zs) drawn by the motor from the mains.
Thus, a synchronous motor is able to supply power to the increased mechanical load, not by decrease
in speed, but by shifting the position of the rotor poles with respect of the stator poles or field.
When load applied on the shaft of the motor is further increased, the induced, emf E falls back
further. Hence load angle (torque angle) G increases with the increase in load. When G increases the
resultant voltage Er increases and so the armature current I. If too great mechanical load is applied
to the synchronous motor, the rotor is pulled out of synchronism, after which it comes to stand still.
This maximum value of torque that a motor can develop without losing its synchronism is called
pull-out torque.
Synchronous Motors 669
or E = V - I Z s = V - I ( R + jX S ) = V - IR - jIX S …(ii)
3. Draw phasor AB = –IR in phase opposition to current phasor as shown in Fig. 8.7(a) or draw
phasor AD = –IXS perpendicular to current phasor but is opposite direction as shown in
Fig. 8.7(b).
4. Draw phasor BC = – IXS perpendicular to current phasor but in opposite direction as shown
in Fig. 8.7(a) or draw phasor DC = –IR in phase opposition to current phasor as shown in
Fig. 8.7(b).
Hence, E = V - I Z S or V = E + IZ S
5. Join OC, which represents phasor E i.e., induced emf per phase.
6. The phase difference between V and E i.e., angle G is known as power angle or torque angle.
6. The phase difference between V and E i.e., angle G is known as power angle or torque angle.
Hence, E = V - I Z S or V = E + I Z S
or E= (V - IR)2 + ( IX S )2
For leading power factor, consider phasor diagram shown in Fig. 8.9(b)
From right angle triangle OCG.
OC2 = OG 2 + CG 2 = (OF – FG)2 + DF2 = (OF – DC)2 + (FA + AD)2
E2 = (V cos I – IR)2 + (V sin I + IXS)2
E= (V - IR)2 + ( IX S )2
IX S
G = – tan -1 (lagging)
V - IR
Also V = E + I ZS …(8.7.1)
I = V - E = V –0∞ - E – - d
ZS Z S –q Z S –q
= V – - q - E – - (d + q )
ZS ZS
or I * = V –q - E – (d + q ) …(8.7.2)
ZS ZS
È ˘
= (V –0∞) Í V –q - E –(d + q ) ˙
Z
Î S Z S ˚
2
= V –q - VE – (d + q )
ZS ZS
È 2 2 ˘ È ˘
= Í V cos q + j V sin q ˙ – Í VE cos (d + q ) + j VE sin (d + q ) ˙
Z
Î S Z S ˚ Î S Z Z S ˚
È 2 ˘ È 2 ˘
= Í V cos q - VE cos (d + q ) ˙ + j Í V sin q - VE sin (d + q ) ˙ …(8.7.4)
Î ZS ZS ˚ Î ZS ZS ˚
where, TS = 90° – D
È ˘
= ( E – - d ) Í V –q - E –(d + q ) ˙
Î ZS ZS ˚
2
= VE –(q - d ) - E –q
ZS ZS
È ˘ È 2 2 ˘
= Í VE cos (q - d ) + j VE sin (q - d ) ˙ - Í E cos q + j E sin q ˙
Z
Î S Z S ˚ Î S Z Z S ˚
È 2 ˘ È 2 ˘
= Í VE cos (q - d ) - E cos q ˙ + j Í VE sin (q - d ) - E sin q ˙ …(8.7.10)
Î ZS ZS ˚ Î ZS ZS ˚
= VE sin d …(8.7.14)
XS
This is also known as synchronising power of the motor. For 3-phase machine,
2
? Qom = VE cos (a + d ) - E 2 X S …(8.7.17)
ZS ZS
For a synchronous motor, actual power developed in the motor is Pom and the power available at
the shaft will be
Power at the shaft = Mechanical power developed – rotational losses
where Rotational losses include friction, windage and core loss.
d P = d È VE 2 ˘
Í sin (d + a ) - E 2 R ˙ = 0 …(8.7.18)
dd om dd ÍÎ Z S Z S ˙˚
? VE cos (d + a ) = 0
ZS
or cos (G + D) = 0 or G + D = 90° or G = 90° – D
or G=T …(8.7.19)
Maximum power output
2 2
Pom (max) = VE sin 90∞ - E 2 R or Pom(max) = VE - E 2 R …(8.7.20)
ZS ZS ZS ZS
Pom(max) = VE …(8.7.21)
XS
Fig. 8.10 Phasor diagram of a salient-pole synchronous motor at lagging power factor
Fig. 8.11 Phasor diagram of a salient-pole synchronous motor at leading power factor
IX q
? tan G=
V - IR
VE
Excitation power per phase = sin d
Xd
2 Ê ˆ
Reluctance power per phase = V Á 1 - 1 ˜ sin 2d
2 Ë Xq Xd ¯
Example 8.1
A 2.3 kV, 3- I star-connected synchronous motor has ZS = (0.2 + j2.2) ohm per phase. The motor
is operating at 0.5 power factor leading with a line current of 200 A. Determine the generated emf
per phase.
Note: All the numerical problems can be solved by either of the two methods.
Example 8.2
A 3-phase, 400 V synchronous motor takes 60 A at a power factor of 0.8 leading. Determine the induced
emf and the power supplied. The motor impedance per phase is (0.25 + j3.2) :.
Solution:
Here, Phase voltage, V = 400 = 231 V ; I = 60 A; cos I = 0.8 leading; Z = (0.25 + j3.2) :.
3
For leading power factor E2 = (V cos I – IR)2 + (V sin I + IXS)2
Example 8.3
A 3-phase synchronous motor of 10 kW at 1100 V has synchronous reactance of 8 :per phase. Find
the minimum current and the corresponding induced emf for full-load condition. The efficiency of
the machine is 0.8. Neglect armature resistance.
Solution:
Here, Power output, P0 = 10 kW; VL = 1100 V; XS = 8 :; K = 0.8
The current in the motor is minimum when the power factor is unity, that is, cos I = 1.
motor output
Motor input =
efficiency
P0
Pi = = 10 = 12.5 kW
h 0.8
IL =
Pi
= 12.5 ¥ 103 = 6.56 A (Ans.)
3 VL cos f 3 ¥ 1100 ¥ 1
VL
Phase voltage, V= = 1100 = 635 V
3 3
For unity power factor
E2 = V 2 + ( IX S )2 = (635)2 + (6.56 ¥ 8)2
? E = 637.25 V per phase (Ans.)
Example 8.4
A 6600 V, 3-phase, star-connected synchronous motor draws a full-load current of 80 A at 0.8 p.f.
leading. The armature resistance is 2.2 :and synchronous reactance 22 : per phase. If the stray
losses of the machine are 3200 W, determine: (a) the emf induced; (b) the output power; (c) the
efficiency.
Solution:
Solution:
Example 8.6
The excitation corresponding to no-load voltage of a 3-phase synchronous motor running at 1500
rpm is kept constant. Determine the power input, power factor and torque developed for an armature
current of 200 A if the synchronous reactance is 5 : per phase and armature resistance is neglected.
Solution:
Solution:
Example 8.8
The resistance and synchronous reactance per phase of a 75 kW, 400 V, 4-pole, 3-phase, star-connected
synchronous motor is 0.04 : and 0.4 : respectively. Determine for full load 0.8 pf leading the open-
circuit emf per phase and gross mechanical power developed. Assume an efficiency of 92.5%.
Solution:
Here, Motor output = 75 kW; VL = 400 V; P = 4; R = 0.04 :; Xs = 0.4 :
Motor output
Motor input = = 75 = 81.081 kW or 81081 watt
h 0.925
Motor input 81081
Armature current, I = = = 146.3 A
3 VL cos f 3 ¥ 400 ¥ 0.8
Xs
Internal phase angle, T= tan -1 = tan -1 0.4 = 84.3°
R 0.04
From phasor diagram shown in Fig. 8.15, open circuit emf/phase,
Example 8.9
The effective resistance and synchronous reactance of a 2000 V, 3-phase, star-connected synchronous
motor is 0.2 : and 2.2 : respectively. The input is 800 kW at normal voltage and the generated
line emf is 2500 V. Calculate the line current and power factor.
Synchronous Motors 687
Solution:
Example 8.10
The resistance and synchronous impedance of a 400 V, 6-pole, 3-phase, 50 Hz, star-connected
synchronous motor is 0.5 : and 4: per phase, respectively. It takes a current of 20 A at unity
power factor when operating with a certain field current. If the load torque is increased until the
line current is increased to 60 A, the field current remaining unchanged, calculate the gross torque
developed and the new power factor.
Solution:
V = 400 = 231 V ;
3
At unity p.f., i.e., cos I = 1, sin I = 0
E = V – IR – jIXs
= 231 – 20 × 0.5 – j20 × 3.968 = 221 – j79.36
= 224.8 –19.75° V
When load on the motor is increased, but the field current is kept constant, E remains the same.
For lagging power factor cos I,
E2 = (V cos I + IR )2 + (V sin I + IXs)2
= V2 + (IZs )2 – 2V I Zs cos (T– I)
(224.8)2 = 2312 + (60 × 4)2 – 2 × 231 × 60 × 4 × cos (T– I)
2312 + (60 ¥ 4)2 - (224.8)2
cos (T– I) = = 0.545
2 ¥ 231 ¥ 60 ¥ 4
T– I = cos–1 0.545 = 56.97°
Xs
tan T= = 3.968 = 7.936; T = tan–1 7.936 = 82.82°
R 0.5
? I= T– 56.97° = 82.82° – 56.97° = 25.85°
New power factor cos I = cos 25.85° = 0.9 (lag) (Ans.)
Motor input, Pi = 3 VL I cos f = 3 ¥ 400 ¥ 60 ¥ 0.9 = 37412 W
Pi ¥ 60 32012 ¥ 60
or T= =
2p N s 2p ¥ 1000
= 305.7 Nm (Ans.)
Example 8.11
The excitation to a 2000 V, 3-phase, 4-pole, Y-connected synchronous motor running at 1500 rpm
is kept constant to produce an open-circuit voltage of 2000 V. The resistance is negligible as compared
to synchronous reactance of 3 :/phase. Determine the power input, power factor and torque
developed for an armature current of 200 A.
Solution:
Here, VL = 2000 V; EL = 2000 V; I = 200 A
Solution:
Example 8.13
The excitation supplied to a 3-phase, star-connected, 30 kW, 660 V, 50 Hz, 20-pole synchronous
motor operating at rated voltage is such that it generates the same emf per phase as that of the
supply voltage per phase. When loaded the motor is retarded by 3 mechanical degrees from its
synchronous position. The synchronous reactance and armature resistance are 10 : and 1 : per
Synchronous Motors 691
phase. Calculate (i) armature current per phase (ii) the power per phase and the total power drawn
by the motor from the bus and (iii) the developed power.
Solution:
Here, VL = 660 V; XS = 10 :; R = 1 :; P = 20; f = 50 Hz.
Er = V 2 + E 2 - 2VE cos d
AB = OB
sin –AOB sin –OAB
381 = 197.2
sin (q + f ) sin 30∞
Example 8.14
A 500 V, 6-pole, 3-phase, 50 Hz, star-connected synchronous motor has a resistance and synchronous
reactance of 0.3 : and 3 : per phase, respectively. The open-circuit voltage is 600 V. If the friction
and core losses total 1 kW, calculate the line current and power factor when the motor output is 100 hp.
Solution:
E r= V 2 + E 2 - 2VE cos d
Example 8.15
The 400 V, 50 kVA, 0.8 power factor leading delta connected synchronous motor has synchronous
reactance of 3 ohm, resistance neglected. It is supplying a 12 kW load with initial power factor of
0.86 lagging. The windage and friction losses are 2.0 kW and the core losses are 1.5 kW. Determine
the line current, armature current and excitation voltage. If the flux of the motor is increased by 20
percent determine the excitation voltage, armature current and the new power factor.
Solution:
Pi = P0 + all losses; Pi = Po + Pmech + Pcore + Pelec = 12 + 2 + 1.5 + 0 = 15.5 kW
694 Electrical Machines
= 15.5 ¥ 10
Pi 3
? I1 = = 15 A
3 V cos f 3 ¥ 400 ¥ 0.86
Since the power factor of the motor is 0.86 lagging, the phasor armature current is given by
I 1 = I 1 – - cos -1 0.86 = 15 – - 30.68∞A
Example 8.16
A 3-phase, 11 kV, 5000 kVA, 50 Hz, 1000 rpm star-connected synchronous motor operates at full
load at a power factor of 0.8 leading. The synchronous reactance is 60% and the resistance may
be neglected. Calculate the synchronising power and torque per mechanical degree of angular
displacement. What is the value of maximum torque and the ratio of maximum to full-load torque?
Solution:
Here, Rating = 5000 kVA; f = 50 Hz; Ns = 1000 rpm; cos I = 0.8 leading;
Synchronous Motors 695
= 11 ¥ 10 = 6351 V
VL 3
Phase voltage, V =
3 3
IX s % Xs V
Now, % Xs = ¥ 100 or Xs = ¥ = 60 ¥ 6351 = 14.52 W
V 100 I 100 262.4
E = V - I Z s = V – (1 I) (Xs 90°)
= (V – IXS sin I) – jIXs cos I
= (6351 + 262.4 × 14.52 × 0.6) – j 262.4 × 14.52 × 0.8
= (6351 + 2286) – j 3048 = 8637 – j3048
= 9159 –19.44°V
? E = 9159 V, G = –19.44°
PN s
Now, f=
120
120 ¥ f
or P= = 120 ¥ 50 = 6 ;
Ns 1000
or pair of poles, p = P = 6 = 3
2 2
Ê ˆ
Synchronising power, Psyn = Á 3VE cos d ˜ p p
Ë Xs ¯ 180
Example 8.17
A 3-phase, 100 hp, 440 V, star-connected synchronous motor has a synchronous impedance per
phase of (0.1 + j 1) :. The excitation and torque losses are 4 kW and may be assumed constant.
Calculate the current, power factor and efficiency when operating at full load with an excitation
equivalent to 500 line volt. (Assume 1 hp = 746 W)
Solution:
Here ZS = 0.1 + j 1 = 1.005 84.28°:, TS = 84.28°;
VL
Phase value and V = = 440 = 254 V
3 3
EL
and E= = 500 = 288.7 V
3 3
Output = 100 × 746 = 74600 W
Power developed = output + excitation and torque losses
= 74600 + 4000 = 78600 W
3 VE 2
We know, Po = cos (q - d ) - 3E2 R
ZS Zs
3 (254) (288.7) 3(288.7)2 ¥ 0.1
or 78600 = cos (84.28∞ - d ) -
1.005 1.005
78600 + 24875 = 218895 cos (84.28° – G)
Efficiency, K =
output
= 100 ¥ 746 = 0.9016 pu (Ans.)
input 3 ¥ 440 ¥ 11.13 ¥ 0.977
Example 8.18
A 10 MVA, 3-phase, star-connected, 11-kV, 12-pole, 50-Hz salient-pole synchronous motor has
reactance of Xd = :, Xq = 2 :. At full-load, unity power factor and rated voltage determine.
(i) the excitation voltage,
(ii) active power,
Synchronous Motors 697
(iii) synchronising power per electrical degree and the corresponding torque,
(iv) synchronising power mechanical degree and the corresponding torque.
Solution:
Here, VL = 11 kV; Rating = 10 MVA = 10 × 106 VA; P = 12; f = 50 Hz
3 ¥ (6351)2 (4 - 2)
= 3 ¥ 6351 ¥ 6608 sin 9.38 + sin 2 ¥ 9.38
4 2 4¥2
= (5130 + 4930) kW = 10060 kW (Ans.)
(iii) Synchronising power per electrical degree
È È X d - Xq ˘ ˘ p
Psyn= Í 3EV cos d + 3V 2 Í ˙ cos 2 d ˙ 180
X
ÍÎ d X X
Î d q ˚ ˚˙
?
2 ()
1° Mech. = P × 1 = 12 ¥ 1 = 6∞ elect.
2
? Psyn/mech. degree = 6 × 1042 = 6252 kW
Corresponding synchronising torque
Tsyn/mech. degree = 6 × 19900 = 119400 Nm (Ans.)
Example 8.19
An 11 kV, 3-phase, star-connected synchronous motor is running in parallel with an infinite bus.
Its direct-and quadrature-axis synchronous reactances are 10 :and 5 : respectively. If the field
current is reduced to zero, find the maximum load that can be put on the synchronous motor. Also
calculate the armature current and the maximum power. Neglect armature resistance.
Solution:
3
= 11 ¥ 10 = 6351 V
VL
Here, VL = 11 kV, V =
3 3
2 Ê ˆ
P = EV sin d + V Á 1 - 1 ˜ sin 2d
Xd 2 Ë Xq Xd ¯
=
(6351)2
2 ( 15 - 101 ) = 2017 ¥ 10 W per phase
3
Example 8.20
A 125 MVA, 3-phase, star-connected 11 kV, 4-pole, 50 Hz synchronous motor has a reactance of
0.15 pu and negligible armature resistance. Calculate the synchronising power per mechanical
degree when it supplies full load at 11 kV and 0.8 power factor leading.
Solution:
Here, Rating = 125 MVA; VL = 11 kV; Xspu = 0.15; P = 4; f = 50 Hz
= 11 ¥ 10 = 6351 V
VL 3
and V=
3 3
X s in ohm
Xs pu =
V /I
Ê ˆ
Psyn = Á 3VE cos d ˜ p p
Ë Xs ¯ 180
(
= 3 ¥ 6350 ¥ 6963.4 cos 6.2826∞ ¥ 6p
0.14518 180 )
= 95109087 W – 95.11 MW (Ans.)
700 Electrical Machines
1. A 50 kW, 400 V, 3-phase synchronous motor is operating at full load with an efficiency of 92%. If the field
current is adjusted to make its power factor 0.8 leading, estimate the armature current. (Ans. 98A)
2. The effective resistance and synchronous reactance of a 2000 V, 3-phase, star-connected synchronous
motor are 0.2 : and 2.2 : per phase, respectively. The input is 800 kW at normal voltage and the induced
line emf is 2500 V. Calculate the line current and power factor. (Ans. 254.4A; 0.91 leading)
3. A 660 V, 3-phase, star-connected synchronous motor draws 50 kW at power factor 0.8 lagging. Find
the new current and power factor when the back emf increases by 50%. The machine has synchronous
reactance of 3: and effective resistance is negligible. (Ans. 49.2A, 0.89 leading)
4. A 3-phase, 400 V, star-connected synchronous motor draws 24 A at full-load unity power factor. If the
machine is operating at 95% efficiency. What will be the induced emf and total mechanical power developed
at full load and 0.9 p.f. leading? The synchronous impedance per phase is (0.2 + j2) :.
(Ans. 441 V;16.2 kW )
5. A 6-pole, 2200 V, 50 Hz, 3-phase, star-connected synchronous motor has armature resistance of 0.4 :
per phase and synchronous reactance of 4 : per phase. While running on no-load, the excitation has
been adjusted so as to make the emf numerically equal to and antiphase with the terminal voltage. With
a certain load torque applied, if the rotor gets retarded by 3 mechanical degrees, calculate the armature
current and power factor of the motor. (Ans. 49.57 A; 0.999 leading)
6. A 3-phase, 415 V, 6-pole, 50 Hz star-connected synchronous motor has emf of 520 V (L-L). The stator
winding has a synchronous reactance of 2 : per phase, and the motor develops a torque of 220 Nm. The
motor is operating at 415 V, 50 Hz bus-bar (a) Calculate the current drawn from the supply and its power
factor (b) draw the phasor diagram showing all the relevant quantities. (Ans. 42.12 A; 0.76 leading)
8. A 3-phase, star-connected synchronous motor is connected to 693 V lines and draws 48 kW at 0.8 pf
lagging. If its induced emf is increased by 30% without changing the power input, what will be the new
current and pf. Zs , equals (0 + j2) ohm/phase. (Ans. 46.366 A; 0.863 leading)
9. A 3-phase, star-connected synchronous motor takes 20 kW at 400 V from the mains. The synchronous
reactance is 4 : and the effective resistance is negligible. If the exciting current is so adjusted that the
back emf is 550 V, calculate the line current and the power factor of the motor.
(Ans. 33.1 A, 0.872 leading)
10. A 3-phase, 11-kV, 50-Hz, 10-pole, 200-kW star-connected salient-pole synchronous motor has Xd = 1.2
pu and Xq = 0.8 pu. It operates at rated power at 0.98 power factor leading. Determine
(a) the internal emf and the load angle.
(b) the maximum power developed. (Ans. 18553 V, 34°; 298 kW )
Synchronous Motors 701
¢
increase in resultant voltage, current increases to I c (I c = E r / ZS). Since the phase angle T between
the resultant voltage and current is constant, therefore, current is also shifted in clockwise direction.
This increases the phase angle between voltage and current to Ic which in turn decreases the lagging
power factor cos I to cos Icmore lagging but the active component of current Ic cos Ic remains the
same i.e., i cos Ic = I cos I,
Hence with the decrease in excitation, synchronous motor draws more current from the supply
mains at lower (lagging) power factor. Thus, the Motor operates as an inductor.
When the excitation is increased, the induced emf increases in magnitude to Es keeping Es sin
Gs to be the same as that of E sin G for constant load. This decreases the resultant voltage which is
also shifted in anti-clockwise direction. Since the phase angle T between the resultant voltage and
current is constant, current is also shifted in anti-clockwise direction and decreases in magnitude till
it comes in phase with the voltage vector as shown in Fig. 8.20(b). At this instant, the current drawn
by the synchronous motor is minimum and the power factor is maximum i.e., one.
Now, if the excitation is further increased, the induced emf increases to Eccc in magnitude. This
increases the resultant voltage to Erccc which is also shifted further in anti-clockwise direction.
Therefore, current is also shifted in anti-clockwise direction and its magnitude increases to I ccc. This
increases the phase angle between voltage and current to Iccc in opposite direction as shown in Fig.
8.19(b), which makes the power factor leading.
Thus, when synchronous motor is over excited, it draws more current at a leading power
factor from the supply mains. A synchronous motor operating under this condition is also called
synchronous condenser.
It may be noted that when excitation voltage E is changed, the torque angle G changes such that
E sin G = Ec sin Gc= Es sin Gs= Esc sin Gsc
Similarly, the active component of armature current also remains the same, i.e.,
Synchronous Motors 703
Minimum Excitation
From Fig. 8.20, it is very clear that as excitation decreases, the torque angle increases. The minimum
permissible excitation, Emin corresponds to the stability limit, i.e., G = 90°.
PX S
Therefore, Emin = (where P is the power input)
V
Significance of V-Curves
V-curves are useful in adjusting the field current. By increasing the field current If beyond the level
of minimum armature current I, we can obtain leading pf. On the other hand by decreasing the field
704 Electrical Machines
current If below the level of minimum armature current I, we can obtain lagging pf. Therefore by
controlling the field current of a synchronous motor, the reactive power supplied to or consumed
from the power system can be controlled.
Thus, by changing the field current (or excitation), a synchronous motor can be used as a condenser
or inductor.
Inverted V-Curves
If we plot a family of curves between power factor and field current (If ), the curves so obtained are
called invested V-curves, as shown in Fig. 8.22, because of their shape.
picks up the synchronous speed but with a larger torque angle G. Thus, with the increase in load, the
Synchronous Motors 705
torque angle Gincreases. But the magnitude of excitation voltage E remains constant which depends
upon field current If and speed and both of them are constant.
VE sin d
Now, P= = VI cos f ,
Xs
Xs X
? E sin G = P = KP where K = s = a constant.
V V
These expressions show that the increase in P increases E sin G and I cos ). The locus of E is
shown in Fig. 8.24. It is seen from Fig. 8.24 that with the increase of the load, the quantity jIXs goes
on increasing so that the relation V = E + jIXS is satisfied and therefore the armature current I also
increases. It is also seen from Fig. 8.24 that the power factor angle I also changes. It becomes less
and less leading and then becomes more and more lagging.
The rotor poles are pulled into synchronism with the rotating field (poles) of the armature (stator)
of the main motor. Then supply to the auxiliary motor is disconnected and it acts as a load on the
main motor.
Synchronous Motors 707
2. By providing damper winding: This is a most common method of starting a synchronous motor.
In this method, the motor is first started as a squirrel cage induction motor by providing a special
winding on the rotor poles, known as damper or squirrel cage winding. This damper winding consists
of number of copper bars embedded into the slots or holes provided on the outer periphery of the
pole shoes, where salient poles are employed, and then short circuiting these bars by brazing them to
end rings as shown in Fig. 8.26. In a non-salient pole machine, the damper winding conductors are
placed in the rotor slots above the main field winding and short circuited by the end rings.
When the synchronous motor (armature) is connected to 3-phase supply mains, a revolving
field is set up which causes the rotor to rotate as a squirrel cage induction motor. As soon as motor
attains about 65% synchronous speed, the rotor winding is connected to DC mains (exciter) and
the rotor field is magnetically locked with the stator rotating field and the motor starts running
runs as a synchronous motor.
Consider an industrial load PL operating at a power factor cos I1. When an over excited motor
drawing power Pm is connected in parallel with the existing load as shown in Fig. 8.27(a), some of
the lagging reactive power of the industrial load in compensated by the leading reactive power of the
motor (i.e., Prm) which improves the over-all power factor to cos I2 as shown in Fig. 8.27(b).
Example 8.21
The excitation of a 3-phase synchronous motor connected in parallel with a load of 500 kW
operating at 0·8 p.f. lagging is adjusted to improve the overall p.f. of the system to 0.9 lagging. If
the mechanical load on the motor including losses is 125 kW, calculate the kVA input to the
synchronous motor and its p.f.
Solution:
Industrial load, PL = 500 kW
Load p.f., cos IL = lagging; tan IL = tan cos–1 0·8 = 0·75
Reactive power of the industrial load,
PrL = PL tan IL = 500 × 0·75 = 375 kVAR
Motor load, Pm = 125 kW
Total active power, P = PL + Pm = 500 + 125 = 625 kW
Power factor of total load, cos I = 0·9 lag
tan I = tan cos–1 0·9 = 0·4843
Total reactive power, Pr = P tan I = 625 × 0·4843 = 302·7 kVAR
Reactive power supplied by synchronous motor,
Prm = Pr – PrL = 302·7 – 375 = – 72·3 kVAR
Pm
Power factor of the motor, cos Im = = 125 = 0·8656 leading (Ans.)
Pam 144 ◊ 4
Example 8.22
The electric loads connected to the supply are:
(i) A lighting load of 500 kW;
(ii) A load of 400 kW at p.f. 0·707 lagging;
(iii) A load of 800 kW at p.f. 0·8 leading;
(iv) A load of 500 kW at p.f. 0·6 lagging;
(v) A synchronous motor driving a 540 kW DC generator and having an overall efficiency of 90%.
Determine the p.f. of the synchronous motor to improve the overall p.f. to unity.
Solution:
The load chart is given below:
S. No. Load in kW p.f. cos I tan I Reactive power
Pr = P tan I
1. 500 1 zero zero
2. 400 0·707 lag. 1 400 kVAR
3. 800 0·8 lead. 0·75 – ve – 600 kVAR
4. 500 0·6 lag. 1·333 666·6 kVAR
= - 466 ◊ 6 = -0 ◊ 7777
Prm
tan Im =
Pm 600
Power factor of the motor, cos Im = cos tan–1 = 0·777 = 0·7893 leading (Ans.)
Example 8.23
A 3-phase synchronous motor takes a load of 50 kW is connected in parallel with a factory load
of 250 kW operating at a lagging power factor of 0.8. If the p.f. of overall load is required to be
improved to 0.9 lagging, what is the value of the leading kVAR supplied by the motor and at what
power factor is it working?
Solution:
Factory load, PL = 250 kW
710 Electrical Machines
Power factor, cos IL = 0.8 lagging; tan IL = tan cos–1 0.8 = 0.75
Load in kVAR, PrL = 250 tan IL = 250 × 0.75 = 187.5 kVAR
Synchronous motor load, Pm = 50 kW
Total load, P = PL + Pm = 250 + 50 = 300 kW
Overall power factor, cos I= 0.9 (lagging)
Phase angle, I= cos–1 0.9 = 25.84°
Total kVAR, Pr = P tan I = P tan 25.84°
= 300 × 0.4843 = 145.3 (lagging)
Leading kVAR supplied by the motor,
Pr m = PrL – Pr = 187.5 – 145.3 = 42.2 kVAR (Ans.)
kVA supplied by the motor, Pam = Pm + Prm = 502 + (42.2)2 = 65.43 kVA
Pm
Power factor of the motor, cos Im = = 50 = 0.764 (leading) (Ans.)
Pam 65.43
8.17 Hunting
When a synchronous motor is loaded, the rotor poles slightly fall back in position with respect to the
stator field (poles) by an angle G known as power angle or torque angle or retarding angle. As the
load is gradually increased, this angle G also increases gradually so as to produce more torque for
coping with the increased load and the motor remains in equilibrium. If the load is suddenly thrown
off, angle G decreases suddenly and the rotor poles are pulled into almost exact opposition to the
stator poles, but due to inertia of rotor and rotor poles travel too far. They are then pulled back again,
and so on, thus oscillations are set up around the equilibrium position, corresponding to new load. If
these oscillations are too large they may throw the motor out of synchronism and stops.
The oscillation of the rotor about its equilibrium position is known as hunting.
The hunting (oscillations) can be prevented by providing damper winding or squirrel cage winding
on the rotor pole faces. This damper winding consists of number of copper bars embedded into the
slots provided on the outer periphery of the pole shoes and then short circuited by end rings. When
hunting takes place, there is relative motion of the rotor with respect to the stator field, which sets up
eddy currents in this winding which flow in such a way that it suppresses the oscillations.
The hunting may also occur when the machine is operating as an alternator. In this case also
because of sudden change in electrical output or mechanical input oscillations are set up in the rotor called
hunting; which can be prevented by providing damper winding on the rotor.
From the above discussions, the following factors are evolved:
Causes of Hunting
1. Sudden change in the load.
2. Sudden change in the field current.
3. Cyclic variation of the load torque.
4. Faults occurring in the system.
Effects of Hunting
1. The machine (generator or motor) may go out of synchronism. This is the most important
phenomenon to be avoided.
2. Large mechanical stresses may develop in the rotor shaft.
3. It increases the possibility of resonance. It happens when the frequency of torque component
becomes equal to that of the transient oscillations of the synchronous machine.
4. It increases the machine losses which may overheat the machine.
5. It may cause variations in supply voltage (generator action) producing lamp flickering.
Reduction of Hunting
1. By using damper winding: The eddy currents developed in the damper winding, damped down
the oscillations.
2. By using flywheels: The prime-mover is provided with a large and heavy flywheel which
increases the inertia of the prime-mover and helps in maintaining the motor speed constant.
712 Electrical Machines
2. Speed It always runs at synchronous speed Its speed falls with the increase
and its speed is independent of load. in load and is always less than the
synchronous speed.
3. Starting It is not self-starting. It has to be run An induction motor has got self-
upto synchronous speed by some starting torque.
means before it can be synchronised
to AC supply.
4. Power factor A synchronous motor can be An induction motor operates at only
operated under wide range of power lagging power factor, which becomes
factors, both lagging and leading by very poor at light loads.
changing its excitation.
5. Major application It is usually used for power factor An induction motor is used for
correction in addition to supplying driving mechanical loads only.
torque to drive mechanical loads.
6. Efficiency It is more efficient than induction Its efficiency is lesser than that of
motor of the same output and a synchronous motor of the same
voltage rating. output and voltage rating.
7. Cost A synchronous motor is costlier The cost of an induction motor is
than an induction motor of the same less than a synchronous motor of the
output and voltage rating. same output and voltage rating.
Synchronous Motors 713
Demerits
(i) The cost per kW output is generally higher than that of an induction motor.
(ii) It requires DC excitation which must be supplied from external source.
(iii) The synchronous motor is inherently not self-starting motor and needs some arrangement for
its starting and synchronising.
(iv) It cannot be used for variable speed jobs as there is no possibility of speed adjustment.
(v) It cannot be started under load. Its starting torque is zero.
(vi) It has a tendency to hunt.
(vii) It may fall out of synchronism and stop when over-loaded.
(viii) Collector rings and brushes are required.
(ix) For some purposes synchronous motors are not desirable as for driving shafts in small work-
shops having no other power available for starting and in cases where frequent starting or strong
starting torque is required.
2. An alternator supplying a load of 500 kW at 0.7 power factor lagging. If its power factor is required to be
raised to unity by means of an over-excited synchronous motor. At a constant armature current how much
input power is required for the synchronous motor? Find the power factor of the synchronous motor.
(Ans. 510 kVAR; Zero leading)
714 Electrical Machines
3. A substation is operating at its full load of 1000 kVA supplies a load of power factor 0..71 lagging. Calculate
the permissible additional load at this power factor and the rating of synchronous condenser to raise the
power factor to 0.87 lagging. (Ans. 225.35 kVA; 370 kVAR)
Q.5. Define the term over-excitation and under-excitation with reference to synchronous machines.
Ans. Over-excitation: The excitation (field current) at which a synchronous motor operates at leading power
factor is called over-excitation.
Under-excitation: The excitation (field current) at which a synchronous motor operates at lagging power
factor is called under-excitation.
Synchronous Motors 715
Q.8. What happens when the field current of a synchronous motor is increased beyond the normal value
at constant input?
Ans. When field current of a synchronous motor is increased beyond normal it starts working at leading
power factor and is called as a synchronous condenser.
Review Questions
1. Explain the construction and principle of operation of a synchronous motor.
2. Explain why the speed of a 3-phase synchronous motor remains constant at variable loads when it is fed
from a constant frequency supply.
3. Give the principle of operation of a synchronous machine. How speed is related to frequency.
4. Explain with neat sketches the principle of operation of a 3-phase synchronous motor. Also explain why
it never runs at a speed other than synchronous speed.
5. Describe with the help of neat sketches, the principle of operation of a 3-phase synchronous motor.
6. Explain why a synchronous motor runs at synchronous speed or not at all. How can the speed of such
motor be varied?
7. What is the effect on the speed of a synchronous motor if load on it is increased ?
8. Explain the action of synchronous motor when loaded.
9. Explain clearly the effect of excitation on the performance of a synchronous motor.
10. Describe briefly the effect of varying excitation upon the armature current and power factor of a 3-phase
synchronous motor when input power to the motor is kept constant.
11. With the help of proper phasor diagrams, explain the operation of a 3-phase synchronous machine with
normal excitation under following conditions.
(i) The machine is floating on the supply bus.
(ii) The machine is working as a synchronous motor at no-load and also with load.
12. Explain effects of varying excitation on armature current and power factor in a synchronous motor. Also
draw ‘V’ curves.
13. Show with the help of phasor diagram, how change in excitation of a synchronous motor causes it to
work (i) as an inductor (ii) as a condenser.
14. Draw and explain the ‘V’-curves of a synchronous motor.
15. Draw a phasor diagram of a synchronous motor. Explain the effect of (i) change in excitation if load is
constant (ii) change in load if excitation is constant.
16. Draw the families of curves of synchronous motor at no-load and full-load showing the relation between
(i) armature current and field current (ii) power factor and field current. Using these curves explain how
the motor may be over loaded with no-load connected to its shaft
17. Explain with the help of a simplified phasor diagram how the power factor at which a 3-phase synchronous
motor operates may be varied when the motor is developing a constant torque.
18. Explain V and inverted V curves.
19. Draw and explain equivalent circuit of a synchronous motor.
Synchronous Motors 717
20. Draw and explain the phasor diagrams of a 3-phase synchronous motor when (i) it is overexcited (ii) it is
under excited
21. Draw the phasor diagrams of synchronous motor for lagging, leading and unity power factor conditions.
Name all the phasors.
22. Derive the commonly used expression for the power developed by a synchronous motor.
23. What is meant by constant power circle for synchronous motor? How is it derived?
24. Show that the locus of stator current for a constant output of 3- I synchronous motor connected to a
constant voltage, constant frequency bus-bars is a circle.
25. How does a synchronous machine act as a capacitor? Explain it with phasor diagrams.
26. What do you understand by a synchronous condenser? Explain with the help of phasor diagrams its
operation and application.
27. What is a synchronous condenser? Show the region of operation of the condenser on V-curves. Where
are synchronous condensers used?
28. Briefly describe the phenomenon of ‘hunting’ in a synchronous machine. How is it remedied?
29. With the help of a neat sketch discuss any one method of starting a synchronous motor.
30. Name different methods of starting a synchronous motor, explain any one in detail.
31. Explain the functions of a damper winding in a synchronous motor.
32. Explain two important functions served by damper winding in a synchronous motor. State applications
of synchronous motor.
33. A synchronous motor will operate at a constant speed on every load, why? Explain in detail. Make a list
of applications of a synchronous motor.
5. A syn. motor is switched on to supply with its field winding shorted on themselves. It will
(a) not start
(b) start and continue to run as an induction motor
(c) start as Induction motor and then run as Syn. motor
(d) none of these.
6. When V is the applied voltage, the breakdown torque of a syn. motor varies as
(a) V (b) V
(c) V2 (d) 1/V
7. If one phase of a 3-phase synchronous motor is short circuited, the motor will:
(a) not start (b) run at half of synchronous speed
(c) run with excessive vibrations (d) Develops no torque.
8. A synchronous motor can develop synchronous torque
(a) only at Syn. speed. (b) while over excited
(c) when under loaded (d) Below or above Synchronous speed.
9. A three phase Syn. motor will have:
(a) no slip rings (b) two slip rings
(c) three slip rings (d) four slip rings.
10. Cage winding in a Syn. motor carries
(a) high starting and running current (b) no starting current
(c) no running current (d) no starting as well as running current
11. Syn. Watt is
(a) a unit to express the rating of syn. motors.
(b) kW as applicable to a Syn. motor
(c) the torque which under Syn. speed would develop a power of one watt
(d) none of these
12. Slip rings in a synchronous motor carry:
(a) DC (b) AC
(c) both a and b (d) no current.
13. The efficiency of a properly designed Syn. motor will usually fall in the range:
(a) 99% to 99·5% (b) 85% to 95%
(c) 75% to 80% (d) 60% to 70%
14. A Syn. motor working on leading p.f. at no-load is known as
(a) condenser (b) Syn. condenser
(c) inverter (d) convertor.
15. The maximum value of torque that a syn. motor can develop without losing its synchronism is called:
(a) slip torque (b) pullout torque
(c) breaking torque (d) syn. torque.
16. The armature current in a syn. motor will be least when p.f. is
(a) zero (b) unity
(c) leading (d) lagging
Synchronous Motors 719
17. When the field of a syn. motor is under excited, the p.f. will be
(a) zero (b) unity
(c) lagging (d) leading.
18. Operating speed of a Syn. motor can be changed to new fixed value by
(a) changing the load (b) changing the supply voltage
(c) changing frequency (d) using brakes.
19. Back emf set up in the stator of Syn motor depends on
(a) rotor speed (b) load
(c) rotor excitation (d) coupling angle.
20. The % age slip in case of syn. motor is
(a) 1% (b) 100 %
(c) 05% (d) zero.
21. The speed regulation of a syn. motor is always:
(a) 1% (b) 05%
(c) positive (d) zero.
22. A synchronous motor can be made self-starting by providing
(a) damper winding on rotor pole (b) damper winding on stator
(c) damper winding on stator as well as rotor (c) none of above.
23. Synchronous speed for a syn. motor is given by
(a) 200 f/p (b) 120 f/p
(c) 120 p/f (d) 120 f.p.
24. Oscillations in a Syn. motor can be damped out by:
(a) maintaining constant excitation
(b) running the motor on leading power factor
(c) providing damping bars on the rotor pole faces
(d) oscillations cannot be damped.
25. A Syn. motor has its field winding shorted and stator is supplied variable voltage. This is likely to result
in:
(a) burning or rotor (b) motor running as Induction motor
(c) crawling of rotor (d) magnetic locking of rotor.
26. Torque angle for a Syn. Motor is
(a) the angle through which the motor lags behind the Syn. speed.
(b) the angle of lag from no-load to full load conditions.
(c) the angle between the rotating stator flux and the field produced by rotor poles.
(d) none of these.
27. A Syn. motor can be used a Syn. Capacitor when it is
(a) under loaded (b) over loaded
(c) under excited (d) over excited
28. Power developed by a syn. motor will be maximum when the load angle is
(a) zero (b) 45°
(c) 90° (d) 120°
720 Electrical Machines
29. A 3-phase induction motor draws 1000 kVA at a pf of 0.8 lag. A synchronous condenser is connected in
parallel to draw an additional 750 kVA at a power factor of 0.6 lead. The pf of the total load supplied by
the mains is
(a) unity. (b) zero.
(c) 0.6 lag. (d) 0.707 lead.
30. Squirrel cage winding is provided on a synchronous motor to make it
(a) noise free (b) self-starting
(c) cheap. (d) quick start
31. A pony motor is basically a
(a) small induction motor. (b) DC series motor,
(c) DC shunt motor. (c) double winding AC/DC motor.
32. While starting a synchronous motor its field winding should be
(a) connected to a DC source. (b) short-circuited.
(c) kept open. (d) none of the above.