Energy Conversion 1
Energy Conversion 1
Energy Conversion 1
ENERGY CONVERSION-I
PREPARED BY
HARIHARA PARIDA
GOVERNMENT POLYTECHNIC,
MAYURBHANJ
Department of Electrical Engineering
Tikarpada, Odisha 757049
DC GENERATOR
I. When the loop is in position no. 1, the generated e.m.f. is zero because the coil sides (AB and CD)
are cutting no flux but are moving parallel to it .
II. When the loop is in position no. 2, the coil sides are moving at an angle to the flux and, therefore,
a low e.m.f. is generated as indicated by point 2 in Fig.1(b).
III. When the loop is in position no. 3, the coil sides (AB and CD) are at right angle to the flux and are,
therefore, cutting the flux at a maximum rate. Hence at this instant, the generated e.m.f. is
maximum as indicated by point 3 in Fig. 1(b).
IV. At position 4, the generated e.m.f. is less because the coil sides are cutting the flux at an angle.
V. At position 5, no magnetic lines are cut and hence induced e.m.f. is zero as indicated by point 5
in Fig.1(b).
VI. At position 6, the coil sides move under a pole of opposite polarity and hence the direction of
generated e.m.f. is reversed. The maximum e.m.f. in this direction (i.e., reverse direction) will be
when the loop is at position 7 and zero when at position 1. This cycle repeats with each revolution
of the coil.
Therefore e.m.f. generated in the loop is alternating one. The alternating voltage generated in the loop
can be converted into direct voltage by a device called commutator. A commutator is also called a
mechanical rectifier.
Commutator consists of a cylindrical metal ring cut into two halves or segments C1 and C2 respectively
separated by a thin sheet of mica. The ends of coil sides AB and CD are connected to the segments C1
and C2 respectively as shown in Fig.1(c). Two stationary carbon brushes rest on the commutator and lead
current to the external load.
Fig:1(c) Fig:1(d)
i. In Fig.1(c), the coil sides AB and CD are under N-pole and S-pole respectively. The commutator at
all times connects the coil side under S-pole to the +ve brush and that under N-pole to the -ve
brush. The segment C1 connects the coil side AB to point P of the load resistance R and the
segment C2 connects the coil side CD to point Q of the load. The direction of current through load
is from Q to P.
ii. After half a revolution of the loop (i.e., 180° rotation), the coil side AB is under S-pole and the coil
side CD under N-pole as shown in Fig.1(d). The currents in the coil sides now flow in the reverse
direction but the segments C1 and C2 have also moved through 180° i.e., segment Q is now in
contact with +ve brush and segment C2 in contact with -ve brush. The commutator has reversed
the coil connections to the load i.e., coil side AB is now connected to point Q of the load and coil
side CD to the point P of the load. The direction of current through the load is from Q to P.
Thus the alternating voltage generated in the loop will appear as direct voltage across the brushes by the
use of commutator. The purpose of brushes is simply to lead current from the rotating loop or winding
to the external stationary load.
Construction of Dc Machine:
The dc generators and dc motors have the same general construction.
2. Pole Core and Pole Shoes: The Pole Core and Pole Shoes are fixed to the magnetic frame
or yoke by bolts. Poles are joined to the yoke with the help of bolts or welding. They carry
field winding and pole shoes are fastened to them. The pole shoes serve two purposes:
They spread out the flux in the air gap and also, being of larger cross-section,
reduce the reluctance of the magnetic path
They support the exciting coils (or field coils)
3. Field or Exciting Coils : They are usually made of copper. Field coils are former wound and placed
on each pole. When direct current passes through the field winding, it magnetizes the poles,
which in turns produces the flux.The field coils of all the poles are connected in series in such a
way that when current flows through them, they form alternate North and South poles.
4. Armature core: The rotating part of the DC machine is called the Armature. Armature core is the
rotor of a dc machine. It is cylindrical in shape with slots to carry armature winding. The armature
core is made of thin laminated circular silicon steel disks for reducing eddy current losses. The
armature core of a DC machine serves the following purposes.
It houses the conductors in the slots.
It provides an easy path for the magnetic flux.
5. Armature Winding: It is usually a former wound copper coil which rests in armature slots. The
armature conductors are insulated from each other and also from the armature core. Armature
winding can be wound by one of the two methods; lap winding or wave winding. Double layer
lap or wave windings are generally used. A double layer winding means that each armature slot
will carry two different coils.
6. Commutator: The commutator, which rotates with the armature, is cylindrical in shape and is
made from a number of wedge-shaped hard drawn copper bars or segments insulated from each
other by a thin sheet of mica. The segments form a ring around the shaft of the armature. Each
commutator segment is connected to the ends of the armature coils.
It is the most important part of a DC machine and serves the following purposes.
It connects the rotating armature conductors to the stationary external circuit through brushes.
It converts the induced alternating current in the armature conductor into unidirectional
current in the external load circuit in DC Generator action, whereas it converts the
alternating torque into unidirectional (continuous) torque produced in the armature in
motor action.
7. Brushes: Carbon brushes are placed or mounted on the commutator and with the help of two or
more carbon brushes current is collected from the armature winding. Each brush is supported in
a metal box called a brush box or brush holder. The brushes are pressed upon the commutator
and form the connecting link between the armature winding and the external circuit. They are
usually made of high-grade carbon because carbon is conducting material and it provides a
lubricating effect on the commutator surface.
8. Bearings: The ball or roller bearings are fitted in the end housings. The function of the bearings
is to reduce friction between the rotating and stationary parts of the machine. Mostly high carbon
steel is used for the construction of bearings as it is very hard material.
9. Shaft: The shaft is made of mild steel with a maximum breaking strength. The shaft is used to
transfer mechanical power from or to the machine. The rotating parts like armature core,
commutator are mounted to the shaft.
Conductor: Each individual length of wire lying in the magnetic field is called conductor.
Turn: When the two conductors lying in the magnetic field are connected in series, so that the emf
induced in them help each other or the resultant induced emf becomes double of that due to one
conductor is called turn.
Coil: When one or more turns are connected in series and two ends of it are connected to the adjacent
commutator segments it is called a coil.
Pole Pitch: The pole pitch is defined as distance is measured in term of armature slots or armature
conductors per pole. Pole Pitch is naturally equal to the total number of armature slots divided by the
number of poles in the machine.
If there are 96 slots on the armature periphery and 4 numbers of poles in the machine, the numbers of
armature slots come between two adjacent poles centres would be 96/4 = 24. Hence, the pole pitch of
that DC machine would be 24.
Coil Span: The pole pitch is defined as distance is measured in term of armature slots or armature
conductors spanned by a coil.
If the coil span is equal to the pole pitch, then the armature winding is said to be full - pitched. In this
situation, two opposite sides of the coil lie under two opposite poles. Hence emf induced in one side of
the coil will be in 180˚ phase shift with emf induced in the other side of the coil. Thus, the total terminal
voltage of the coil will be the arithmetic sum of these two emfs. If the coil span is less than the pole pitch,
then the winding is referred as fractional pitched. In this coil, there will be a phase difference between
induced emf in two sides, less than 180 ˚. Hence resultant terminal voltage of the coil is vector sum of
these two emf’s and it is less than that of full-pitched coil.
Back Pitch (YB): It is defined as the distance in terms of number of armature conductors between the last
and the first conductor of the coil. It is also called as coil span or spread. It is represented by YB.
Front Pitch (YF): It is defined as the distance in terms of number of armature conductors between the
second conductor of one coil and the first conductor of next coil which is connected to the same
commutator segment. It is represented by YF.
Resultant Pitch (YR): It is the distance between the beginning of one coil and the beginning of the next
coil to which it is connected. It is represented by YR
Commutator Pitch (YC): Commutator pitch is defined as the distance between two commutator segments
which two ends of same armature coil are connected. It is represented by YC.
In this type of winding the completing end of one coil is connected to a commutator segment and to the
start end of adjacent coil located under the same pole and similarly all coils are connected. This type of
winding is known as lap because the sides of successive coils overlap each other.
Lap winding may be simplex (single) or multiplex (duplex or triplex) winding. In simplex lap winding the
connection of the winding is that there are as many parallel paths as there are number of poles. Whereas
for duplex, the number of parallel paths are equal to twice that of the number of poles and for triplex it
is thrice. For this reason, the lap winding is called multiple or parallel winding. The purposes of such type
of windings are,
a. To increase the number of parallel paths enabling the armature current to increase i.e., for high
current output.
b. To improve commutation as the current per conductor decreases.
Wave winding of a DC Machine
In wave winding the coils which are carrying current in one direction are connected in series circuit and
the carrying current in opposite direction are connected in another series circuit. In wave winding, the
conductors are so connected that they are divided into two parallel paths irrespective of the number of
poles of the machine. Thus, if the machine has Z armature conductors, there will be only two parallel
paths each having Z/2 conductors in series. In this case number of brushes is equal to two, i.e. number of
parallel paths.
If after passing once around the armature the winding falls in a slot to the left of its starting point then
winding is said to be retrogressive. If it fails one slot to the right it is progressive.
As the armature rotates, a voltage is generated in its coils. In the case of a generator, the emf of rotation
is called the Generated emf or Armature emf and is denoted as Eg. In the case of a motor, the emf of
rotation is known as Back emf or Counter emf and represented as Eb. The expression for emf is same for
both the operations. i.e., for Generator as well as for Motor
Putting the value of (t) from Equation (2) in the equation (3) we will get
For a given machine, the number of poles and the number of conductors per parallel path (Z/A) are
constant. Hence induced emf equation can be written as
Thus, it is clear that the induced emf is directly proportional to the speed and flux per pole. The polarity
of induced emf depends upon the direction of the magnetic field and the direction of rotation. If either
of the two is reverse the polarity changes, but if two are reversed the polarity remains unchanged.
If the machine DC Machine is working as a Generator, the induced emf is given by the equation
In a motor, the induced emf is called Back Emf (Eb) because it acts opposite to the supply voltage.
Separately excited d. c. generators: Separately-excited generators are those whose field magnets are
energized from an independent external source of DC current. The flux produced by the poles depends
upon the field current with the unsaturated region of magnetic material of the poles. i.e. flux is directly
proportional to the field current. But in the saturated region, the flux remains constant.
Self-excited d.c generators: Self-excited generators are those whose field magnets are energized by
the current produced by the generators themselves. There are three types of self-excited generators
depending upon the manner in which the field winding is connected to the armature, namely;
i. Series generator;
ii. Shunt generator;
iii. Compound generator
Series generator:
In this case, the field windings are connected in series with the armature windings. The series field
winding carries the armature current. The series field winding consists of a few turns of wire of thick wire
of larger cross-sectional area and having low resistance usually of the order of less than 1 ohm because
the armature current has a very large value.
Armature Current =Ia = Ise = IL
Terminal Voltage = V = Eg − Ia(Ra + Rse)
Power developed in the Armature =EgIa
Power delivered to the load = VIL
Shunt generator:
In a shunt generator, the field winding is connected across the armature winding forming a parallel or
shunt circuit. Therefore, full terminal voltage is applied across it. A very small field current Ish, flows
through it because this winding has many turns of fine wire having very high resistance R sh of the order
of 100 ohms.
Compound generators:
The generator which has both shunt and series fields is called the compound wound generators. The
compound-wound D.C generator has two sets of field windings. One set is made of low-resistance
windings and is connected in series with the armature circuit. The other set is made of high-resistance
wire and connected in parallel with the armature circuit.
When series field aids the shunt field, generator is said to be cumulatively compounded. On the other
hand if series field opposes the shunt field, the generator is said to be differentially compounded.
A compound wound D.C generator can be either short-shunt or long-shunt. In a long shunt wound
generator, the shunt field winding is parallel with both armature and series field winding. In a Short Shunt
Compound Wound Generator, the shunt field winding is connected in parallel with the armature winding
only.
Short shunt long shunt
Losses In Dc Machine:
Losses in a DC machine may be divided in to three classes
i. copper loss ii. Core loss or iron loss iii. Mechanical loss
Copper loss: These losses occur due to currents in the various windings of the machine.
a. Armature copper loss = I a2R a.This is the loss due to current flowing in the armature windings
of the machine.
2R . This loss is due to current flowing in the shunt field windings of
b. Shunt field copper loss =I sh sh
the machine.
2R . This loss is due to current flowing in the series field windings of
c. Series field copper loss =I se se
the machine.
Core loss or iron loss: Core loss or iron loss occurs in the armature core of a dc machine and is due to
the rotation of armature core in the magnetic flux produced by the field system. Iron loss consists of
Mechanical loss:
a. Friction loss – brush friction loss and Bearing friction loss.
b. Windage loss i.e ,air friction of rotating armature
Constant losses: Those losses in a dc machine which remain constant at all loads are known as constant
losses. The constant losses are iron losses, mechanical losses, shunt field losses
Variable losses: Those losses in a dc machine which vary with load are called variable losses. The variable
losses are
a. Armature copper loss (Ia 2Ra)
b. Series field copper loss ( Ise2Rse)
Total losses = constant losses + Variable losses
Iron losses and mechanical losses together are called rotational losses.
Efficiency Of a Dc Generator: Efficiency is simply defined as the ratio of output power to the input
power.
Output input−losses
5= =
input input
= VIL+ Ia 2Ra + Wc
The shunt field current Ishis small compared to IL.Therefore Ishcan be neglected
y = Output = VIL
input VIL+IL2Ra +Wc
1
= ILRa Wc
1+( + )
V VIL
The efficiency will be maximum when the denominator is minimum i.e
d (ILRa + Wc ) = 0
dIL V VIL
Ra Wc
− =0
V VIL2
Ra
= Wc2
V VIL
IL2Ra = Wc
i.e Variable loss = constant loss
The load current corresponding to maximum efficiency is given by
IL = √
Wc
Ra
Hence the efficiency of a dc generator will be maximum when the load current is such that variable loss
is equal to the constant loss.
Armature Reaction:
In a DC machine, two kinds of magnetic fluxes are present; 'armature flux' and 'main field flux'. The effect
of armature flux on the main field flux is called as armature reaction.
Fig: a fig: b
Fig: c fig: d
ii. The axis of the main poles is called the direct axis (d-axis) and the interpolar axis is called
quadrature axis (q-axis). Figure b shows armature flux lines due to the armature current. Field
poles are de-energized. The armature mmf (Fa) is along the interpolar axis. Fa which is at 900 to
the main field axis is known as cross magnetizing mmf.
iii. Figure c shows the practical condition in which a DC machine operates when both the Field flux
and armature flux are existing. Because of both fluxes are acting simultaneously, there is a shift
in brush axis and crowding of flux lines at the trailing pole tip and flux lines are weakened or
thinned at the leading pole tip. The armature flux superimposes with the main field flux and,
hence, disturbs the main field flux. This effect is called as armature reaction in DC machines.
If the iron in the magnetic circuit is assumed unsaturated, the net flux/pole remains unaffected by the
armature reaction though the air gap flux density distribution gets distorted. If the main pole excitation
is such that the iron is in the saturated region of magnetization (practical case) the increase in flux density
at one end of the poles caused by armature reaction is less than the decrease at the other end, so that
thereis a net reduction in the flux/pole. This is called the demagnetizing effect.
Compensating Winding: we know that the armature reaction is due to the presence of armature flux.
Armature flux is produced due to the current flowing in armature conductors. Now, if we place another
winding in close proximity of the armature winding and if it carries the same current but in the opposite
direction as that of the armature current, then this will nullify the armature field. Such an additional
winding is called as compensating winding and it is placed on the pole faces. Compensating winding is
connected in series with the armature winding in such a way that it carries the current in opposite
direction. To minimize the cross magnetising effect compensating winding is used. This compensating
winding produces an m.m.f which opposes the m.m.f produced by armature conductors.
Fig: Compensating conductors in field poles and the connection of compensating conductors with
armature
Interpoles: Interpoles are the small auxiliary poles placed between the main field poles. Like
compensating winding, interpoles are also connected in series with armature winding such that the m.m.f
produced by them opposes the m.m.f produced by armature conductor in interpolar region. In
generators, the interpole polarity is same as that of main pole ahead such that they induce an e.m.f which
is known as commutating or reversing e.m.f. This commutating e.m.f minimizes the reactance e.m.f and
hence sparks or arcs are eliminated. Interpoles nullify the quadrature axis armature flux.
Commutation:
The process of reversal of current in the short circuited armature coil is called ‘Commutation’. This
process of reversal takes place when coil is passing through the interpolar axis (q-axis), the coil is short
circuited through commutator segments. When commutation takes place, the coil undergoing
commutation is short circuited by the brush.
The brief period during which the coil remains short circuited is known as commutation period Tc.
If the current reversal ie. The change from ‘+I’ to zero and then to ‘-I’ is completed by the end of short
circuit or commutation period, then the commutation is ‘ideal commutation’.
If current reversal is not complete by that time, then it will result in sparking in the brushes resulting in a
‘non-ideal commutation.’
Let us discuss the process of commutation or current reversal in more detail with the help of the figures.
• Coil A is about to be short circuited because brush is about to come in contact with commutator segment
1. It is assumed that each coil carries 20A,sothat brush current is 40A.Prior to the beginning of short-
circuit, coil A carries 20A shown in fig :a
• In fig: b coil A has entered its period of short circuit and approximately at one-third of this period. As the
area of contact of brush is more with segment 1 than with segment 2 (contact resistance varies inversely
as the area of contact of brush) it receives 30A through segment 1 and 10 A through segment 2, the total
again being 40A. The current through coil A has reduced down from 20A to 10A because the other 10A
flows via segment 2.
• Fig: c shows the instant when the brush is one-half on segment 2 and one-half on segment 1. The brush
again conducts 40 A; 20 A through segment 1 and 20 A through segment 2. The current through coil A
has decreased to zero.
• Fig: d shows the instant when the brush is three-fourth on segment 2 and one-fourth on segment 1. The
brush conducts a current of 40 A; 30 A through segment 2 and 10A through segment 1. The current in
coil A is 10 A but in the reverse direction to that before the start of Commutation.
• Fig: e shows the instant when the brush is in contact only with segment 2. The brush again conducts 40
A; 20 A from coil A and 20 A from the adjacent coil to coil A. Now current in coil A is 20 A but in the reverse
direction. Thus the coil A has undergone commutation.
Fig: a Fig: b
Fig: c Fig: d
Fig: e
Reactance Voltage:
During commutation sparking occurs in the commutator segment and brush due to presence of reactance
voltage. This voltage is generated due to change of current in the commutating coil for its self- inductance
and also due to mutual inductance of the adjacent coils. This voltage is called reactance voltage and
according to Lenz’s law this induced voltage oppose its cause of production. Here the cause of production
is the change in current in the coil under commutation. Thus the commutation becomes poorer.
di
Reactance voltage = co-efficient of self-inductance X rate of change of current = L dt
Time of short circuit = Tc = (time required by commutator to move a distance equal to the circumferential
thickness of brush)–(one mica insulating strip) = Time of commutation
These are small poles fixed to the yoke and placed in between the main poles .They are wound with few
turns of heavy gauge copper wire and are connected in series with the armature so that they carry full
armature current. Their polarity in case of generator is that of the main pole ahead in the direction of
rotation. Their polarity in case of motor is that of the main pole behind in the direction of rotation.
The functions of interpoles are
i. to induce an emf which is equal and opposite to that of the reactance voltage.
ii. Interpoles neutralize the cross magnetizing effect of armature reaction.
Characteristics of DC Generators:
Generally, following three characteristics of DC generators are taken into considerations:
i. Open Circuit Characteristic (O.C.C.)
ii. Internal or Total Characteristic
iii. External Characteristic.
Open circuit characteristic is also known as magnetic characteristic or no-load saturation characteristic.
This characteristic shows the relation between generated emf at no load (E0) and the field current (If) at
a given fixed speed. The O.C.C. curve is just the magnetization curve and it is practically similar for all
type of generators. The data for O.C.C. curve is obtained by operating the generator at no load and
keeping a constant speed. Field current is gradually increased and the corresponding terminal voltage is
recorded. The connection arrangement to obtain O.C.C. curve is as shown in the figure below. For shunt
or series excited generators, the field winding is disconnected from the machine and connected across
an external supply.
Now, from the emf equation of dc generator, we know that Eg = kɸ. Hence, the generated emf should
be directly proportional to field flux (and hence, also directly proportional to the field current). However,
even when the field current is zero, some amount of emf is generated (represented by OA in the figure
below). This initially induced emf is due to the fact that there exists some residual magnetism in the field
poles. Due to the residual magnetism, a small initial emf is induced in the armature. This initially induced
emf aids the existing residual flux, and hence, increasing the overall field flux. This consequently increases
the induced emf. Thus, O.C.C. follows a straight line. However, as the flux density increases, the poles
get saturated and the ɸ becomes practically constant. Thus, even we increase the If further, ɸ remains
constant and hence, Eg also remains constant. Hence, the O.C.C. curve looks like the B-H characteristic.
To determine the internal and external load characteristics of a DC shunt generator the machine is
allowed to build up its voltage before applying any external load. To build up voltage of a shunt generator,
the generator is driven at the rated speed by a prime mover. Initial voltage is induced due to residual
magnetism in the field poles. When the generator has built up the voltage, it is gradually loaded with
resistive load and readings are taken at suitable intervals.
During a normal running condition, when load resistance is decreased, the load current increases. But,
as we go on decreasing the load resistance, terminal voltage also falls. So, load resistance can be
decreased up to a certain limit, after which the terminal voltage drastically decreases due to excessive
armature reaction at very high armature current and increased I 2 R losses. Hence, beyond this limit any
further decrease in load resistance results in decreasing load current. Consequently, the external
characteristic curve turns back.
Characteristics of DC Series Generator
The curve AB in above figure identical to open circuit characteristic (O.C.C.) curve. This is because in DC
series generators field winding is connected in series with armature and load. Hence, here load current
is similar to field current (i.e. IL=If). The curve OC and OD represent internal and external characteristic
respectively. In a DC series generator, terminal voltage increases with the load current. This is because,
as the load current increases, field current also increases. However, beyond a certain limit, terminal
voltage starts decreasing with increase in load. This is due to excessive demagnetizing effects of the
armature reaction.
The above figure shows the external characteristics of DC compound generators. If series winding amp-
turns are adjusted so that, increase in load current cause increase in terminal voltage then the generator
is called to be over compounded. The external characteristic for over compounded generator is shown
by the curve AB in above figure. If series winding amp-turns are adjusted so that, the terminal voltage
remains constant even the load current is increased, then the generator is called to be flat compounded.
The external characteristic for a flat compounded generator is show by the curve AC. If the series winding
has lesser number of turns than that would be required to be flat compounded, then the generator is
called to be under compounded. The external characteristics for an under compounded generator are
shown by the curve AD.
Build-up of E.M.F of a Shunt Generator:
When the armature is rotating with armature open circuited, an emf is induced in the armature
because of the residual flux. When the field winding is connected with the armature, a current flows
through the field winding ( in case of shunt field winding, field current flows even on No-load and in case
of series field winding only with load) and produces additional flux. This additional flux along with the
residual flux generates higher voltage. This higher voltage circulates more current to generate further
higher voltage. This is a cumulative process till the saturation isattained.
Here OM is the field resistance curve. Initially there will be residual voltage which will create OA field
current. This field current will increase the existing magnetic field and the induced voltage will increase
up-to OB. This OB voltage will further applied to the field winding and increase the field current to OC.
This process will continue upto the point L where the emf curve intersect with field resistance and
finally the induced voltage will be OJ. This way voltage builds-up in dc generator.
The voltage to which it builds is decided by the resistance of the field winding as shown in the figure
below. If field circuit resistance is increased such that the resistance line does not cut OCC like ‘OP’ in
the figure, then the machine will fail to build up voltage to the rated value. The slope of the air gap
line drawn as a tangent (OQ) to the initial linear portion of the curve represents the maximum
resistance that the field circuit can have beyond which the machine fails to build up voltage. This value
of field circuit resistance is called critical field resistance. The field circuit is generally designed to have
a resistance value less than this so that the machine builds up the voltage to the rated value.
Critical field resistance is defined as the maximum field circuit resistance for a given speed with which
the shunt generator would excite. The shunt generator will build up voltage only if field circuit
resistance is less than critical field resistance.
Critical Speed:
Voltage of a dc generator is proportional to its speed. Thus when speed will be reduced then the
induced voltage will reduced. There can be such situation occur when the speed will be so low that
the existing field winding resistance voltage bulid up will not occur. The speed of the generator can be
lowered up to a certain level.
This minimum value of the speed of the generator for which the generator can excite is called critical
speed. It can also define as that speed of a generator for which the existing field resistance of
generator becomes its critical field resistance.
In the above figure it is showing that when speed of the generator changes from n1 to n2 and then n3
emf production changes accordingly. Here n1>n2>n3. For speed n3 voltage build-up is not possible. The
speed n2 is the critical speed. At speed n2 generator field resistance become its critical field resistance.
b. Efficiency:
Generators run most efficiently when loaded to their rated capacity. Therefore, when load demand
on power plant decreases, one or more generators can be shut down and the remaining units can be
efficiently loaded.
Application of DC generators:
Back Emf:
When the armature of DC motor rotates under the influence of the driving torque ,the armature
conductors move through the magnetic field and hence emf is induced in them. The induced emf acts
in opposite direction to the applied voltage V and is known as back emf or Counter emf Eb.
The back emf (also called counter emf) is given by
V and Ra are fixed, therefore, armature current Ia depends on back emf, which in turn depends
on speed of the motor.
As the back emf opposes supply voltage V, therefore, supply voltage has to force current
through the armature against the back emf, to keep armature rotating. The electric work done
in overcoming and causing the current to flow against the back emf is converted into
mechanical energy developed in the armature. It follows, therefore, that energy conversion in
a dc motor is only possible due to the production of back emf. Mechanical power developed
in the armature = EbIa
Power input to the armature - Armature copper loss = Gross mechanical power
developed in the armature.
V − 2IaRa = 0
V
Ia =
2Ra
V
IaRa = 2
Torque is the turning moment of a force about an axis and is measured by the product of force (F)and
radius(r) at right angle to which the force acts, i.e
T = F ×r
The sum of the torques due to all the armature conductors is known as gross or armature torque(Ta)
Force on each conductor, F = B × i × l newtons
Torque due to one conductor =F × r
Total armature torque, Ta = Z × F × r newton-meter
Ta = Z × B × i × l × r
Φ Ia Ia Φ
Ta = Z × (a) × ( A ) × l × r [since i = A
,B = a
, a = 2πrl/P]
Ia
=Z×( Φ
)× ( )×l×r
2πrl/P A
ΦIa P
=Z×( )
2πA
Taa ΦIa
Hence torque in a d.c motor is directly proportional to flux per pole and armature current.
Shaft Torque:
The actual torque available at the shaft for doing useful mechanical work is known as Shaft Torque. It
is so called because it is available on the shaft of the motor. It is represented by the symbol Tsh. A part
of it is lost to overcome the iron and mechanical (friction and windage) losses. Therefore, shaft torque
(Tsh) is somewhat less than the torque developed in the armature(Ta). The difference the armature
torque and the shaft torque (Ta − Tsh) is called lost torque.
Iron and frictional losses
Ta − Tsℎ = 9.55 × ( N
)
T Output in watts
sℎ = 9.55 × ( ) N−m
N
The horse power developed by the shaft torque is known as brake horse power ( b.h.p). If Tsℎ is the
shaft torque in Newton Meters and N is the speed in r.p.m then,
Characteristics of Dc Motors:
Generally, three characteristic curves are considered important for DC motors which are,
i. Torque vs. armature current,
ii. Speed vs. armature current and
iii. Speed vs. torque.
Characteristics of DC Series Motors:
This characteristic is also known as electrical characteristic. We know that torque is directly
proportional to the product of armature current and field flux, Ta a ɸ.Ia. In DC series motors, field
winding is connected in series with the armature, i.e. Ia = If. Therefore, before magnetic saturation of
the field, flux ɸ is directly proportional to Ia. Hence, before magnetic saturation Ta α Ia2. Therefore,
the Ta-Ia curve is parabola for smaller values of Ia.
After magnetic saturation of the field poles, flux ɸ is independent of armature current Ia. Therefore,
the torque varies proportionally to Ia only, T a Ia. Therefore, after magnetic saturation, Ta-Ia curve
becomes a straight line.
The shaft torque (Tsh) is less than armature torque (Ta) due to stray losses. Hence, the curve T sh Vs Ia
lies slightly lower. In DC series motors, (prior to magnetic saturation) torque increases as the square
of armature current, these motors are used where high starting torque is required.
This characteristic is also called as mechanical characteristic. From the above two characteristics of DC
series motor, it can be found that when speed is high, torque is low and vice versa.
Characteristics of DC Shunt Motors:
In case of DC shunt motors, we can assume the field flux ɸ to be constant. Though at heavy loads, ɸ
decreases in a small amount due to increased armature reaction. As we are neglecting the change in
the flux ɸ, we can say that torque is proportional to armature current. Hence, the Ta-Ia characteristic
for a dc shunt motor will be a straight line through the origin. Since heavy starting load needs heavy
starting current, shunt motor should never be started on a heavy load.
As flux ɸ is assumed to be constant, we can say N a Eb. But, as back emf is also almost constant, the
speed should remain constant. But practically, ɸ as well as Eb decreases with increase in load. Back
emf Eb decreases slightly more than ɸ, therefore, the speed decreases slightly. Generally, the speed
decreases only by 5 to 15% of full load speed. Therefore, a shunt motor can be assumed as a constant
speed motor. In speed vs. armature current characteristic in the following figure, the straight
horizontal line represents the ideal characteristic and the actual characteristic is shown by the dotted
line.
V−IaRa
N=
kΦ
Taa Φ Ia
Ta
Ia =
kΦ
N= V Ra
— Ta
kΦ kΦ2
Thus with increase with torque the speed of DC shunt motor decreases. The nature of the
characteristics is drooping in nature.
Characteristics of DC Compound Motor:
DC compound motors have both series as well as shunt winding. In a compound motor, if series and
shunt windings are connected such that series flux is in direction as that of the shunt flux then the
motor is said to be cumulatively compounded. And if the series flux is opposite to the direction of the
shunt flux, then the motor is said to be differentially compounded. Characteristics of both these
compound motors are explained below.
STARTING OF DC MOTORS
A starter is a device to start and accelerate a motor. A controller is a device to start the motor, control
and reverse the speed of the DC motor and stop the motor. While starting the DC motor, it draws the
heavy current which damages the motor. The starter reduces the heavy current and protects the
system from damage.
The dc motor has no back EMF. At the starting of the motor, the armature current is controlled by the
resistance of the circuit. The resistance of the armature is low, and when the full voltage is applied at
the standstill condition of the motor, the armature current becomes very high which damage the parts
of the motor.
Because of the high armature current, the additional resistance is placed in the armature circuit at
starting. The starting resistance of the machine is cut out of the circuit when the machine gains it
speeds. The armature current of a motor is given by
Thus, Ia depends upon E and Ra, if V is kept constant. When the motor is first switched ON, the
armature is stationary. Hence, the back EMF Eb is also zero. The initial starting armature current
Ias is given by the equation shown below.
Since, the armature resistance of a motor is very small, generally less than one ohm. Therefore,
the starting armature current I as would be very large.
As the motor speed increases, the back EMF increases and the difference (V – E) go on decreasing.
This results in a gradual decrease of armature current until the motor attains its stable speed and
the corresponding back EMF. Under this condition, the armature current reaches its desired value.
Thus, it is found that the back EMF helps the armature resistance in limiting the current through
the armature.
3 POINT STARTER
3 Point Starter is a device whose main function is starting and maintaining the speed of the DC
shunt motor. The 3 point starter connects the resistance in series with the circuit which reduces
the high starting current and hence protects the machines from damage. Mainly there are three
main points or terminals in 3 point starter of DC motor. They are as follows
• L is known as Line terminal, which is connected to the positive supply.
• A is known as the armature terminal and is connected to the armature windings.
• F or Z is known as the field terminal and is connected to the field terminal windings.
The No Voltage Coil (NVC) is called NO-VOLT or UNDERVOLTAGE protection of the motor.
Without this protection, the supply voltage might be restored with the handle in the RUN position.
The full line voltage is directly applied to the armature. As a result, a large amount of current is
generated.
The other protective device incorporated in the starter is the overload protection. The Over Load
Trip Coil (OLC) and the No Voltage Coil (NVC) provide the overload protection of the motor. The
overload coil is made up of a small electromagnet, which carries the armature current. The
magnetic pull of the Overload trip coil is insufficient to attract the strip P, for the normal values
of the armature current.
When the motor is overloaded, that is the armature current exceeds the normal rated value, P is
attracted by the electromagnet of the OLC and closes the contact aa thus, the No Voltage Coil is
short-circuited, shown in the figure of 3 Point Starter. As a result, the handle H is released, which
returns to the OFF position, and the motor supply is cut off.
To stop the motor, the starter handle should never be pulled back as this would result in burning
the starter contacts. Thus, to stop the motor, the main switch of the motor should be opened.
4 POINT STARTER
A 4 Point Starter is almost similar in functional characteristics like 3 Point Starter. In the absence
of back EMF, the 4 Point Starter acts as a current limiting device while starting of the DC motor. 4
Point Starter also acts a protecting device.
The basic difference in 4 Point Starter as compared to 3 Point Starter is that in this a holding coil
is removed from the shunt field circuit. This coil after removing is connected across the line in
series with a current limiting resistance R. The studs are the contact points of the resistance
represented by 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 in the figure below. The schematic connection diagram of a 4 Point
Starter is shown below.
The above arrangement forms three parallel circuits. They are as follows:-
• Armature, starting the resistance and the shunt field winding.
• A variable resistance and the shunt field winding.
• Holding coil and the current limiting resistance.
With the above three arrangements of the circuit, there will be no effect on the current through
the holding coil if there is any variation in speed of the motor or any change in field current of the
motor. This is because the two circuits are independent of each other.
The only limitation or the drawback of the 4 point starter is that it cannot limit or control the high
current speed of the motor. If the field winding of the motor gets opened under the running
condition, the field current automatically reduces to zero. But as some of the residual flux is still
present in the motor, and we know that the flux is directly proportional to the speed of the motor.
Therefore, the speed of the motor increases drastically, which is dangerous and thus protection
is not possible. This sudden increase in the speed of the motor is known as High-Speed Action of
the Motor.
The dc motor converts the mechanical power into dc electrical power. One of the most important
features of the dc motor is that their speed can easily be control according to the requirement by using
simple methods. Such type of control is impossible in an AC motor.
The concept of the speed regulation is different from the speed control. In speed regulation, the speed
of the motor changes naturally whereas in dc motor the speed of the motor changes manually by the
operator or by some automatic control device. The speed of the DC Motor is given by the relation
shown below.
The equation (1) that the speed is dependent upon the supply voltage V, the armature circuit
resistance Ra and the field flux ϕ, which is produced by the field current.
For controlling the speed of DC Motor, the variation in voltage, armature resistance and field flux is
taken into consideration. There are three general methods of speed control of a DC Motor. They are
as follows.
1. Variation of resistance in the armature circuit. This method is called Armature Resistance or
Rheostatic control.
2. Variation in field flux. This method is known as Field Flux Control.
3. Variation in applied voltage. This method is also known as Armature Voltage Control.
Fig: Connection diagram of a shunt motor of the armature resistance control method
By varying the armature circuit resistance, the current and flux both are affected. The voltage drop in
the variable resistance reduces the applied voltage to the armature, and as a result, the speed of the
motor is reduced.
When the value of variable resistance Re is increased, the motor runs at a lower speed. Since the
variable resistance carries full armature current, it must be designed to carry continuously the full
armature current
Shunt Motor
In a Shunt Motor, the variable resistor RC is connected in series with the shunt field windings as shown
in the figure below. This resistor RC is known as a Shunt Field Regulator.
Fig: Shunt Field Regulator
The shunt field current is given by the equation
The connection of RC in the field reduces the field current, and hence the flux is also reduced. This
reduction in flux increases the speed, and thus, the motor runs at speed higher than the normal speed.
Therefore, this method is used to give motor speed above normal or to correct the fall of speed
because of the load.
Series Motor
In a series motor, the variation in field current is done by any one method, i.e. either by a diverter or
by a tapped field control.
a. By Using a Diverter:
A variable resistance Rd is connected in parallel with the series field windings
The flux cannot usually be increased beyond its normal values because of the saturation of the iron.
Therefore, speed control by flux is limited to the weakening of the field, which gives an increase in
speed. This method is applicable over only to a limited range because if the field is weakened too much,
there is a loss of stability.
Determination of Efficiency:
Swinburne’s Test:
Swinburne’s Test is an indirect method of testing of DC machines. In this method the losses are
measured separately and the efficiency at any desired load is predetermined. Machines are tested for
finding out losses, efficiency and temperature rise. For small machines direct loading test is performed.
For large shunt machines, indirect methods are used like Swinburne’s or Hopkinson’s test.
Fig: Swinburne’s Test
Let
V be the supply voltage
I0 is the no-load current
Ish is the shunt field current
Therefore, no load armature current is given by the equation
When the machine is loaded, the temperature of the armature winding and the field winding increases
due to I2R losses. For calculating I2R losses hot resistances should be used. A stationary measurement
of resistances at room temperature of t degree Celsius is made by passing current through the
armature and then field from a low voltage DC supply. Then the heated resistance, allowing a
temperature rise of 50⁰C is found. The equations are as follows:-
If the constant losses of the machine are known, its efficiency at any other load can be determined as
follows.
Let
I be the load current at which efficiency is required.
Efficiency when the machine is running as a Moto
Applications of DC Motor:
When the AC supply is given to the primary winding with a voltage of V1, an alternating flux ϕ sets
up in the core of the transformer, which links with the secondary winding and as a result of it, an
emf is induced in it called Mutually Induced emf. The direction of this induced emf is opposite to
the applied voltage V1, this is because of the Lenz’s law.
Physically, there is no electrical connection between the two windings, but they are magnetically
connected. Therefore, the electrical power is transferred from the primary circuit to the
secondary circuit through mutual inductance. The induced emf in the primary and secondary
windings depends upon the rate of change of flux linkage that is (N dϕ/dt).
dϕ/dt is the change of flux and is same for both the primary and secondary windings. The induced
emf E1 in the primary winding is proportional to the number of turns N1 of the primary windings
(E1 α N1). Similarly induced emf in the secondary winding is proportional to the number of turns
on the secondary side. (E2 α N2).
Turn Ratio:
It is defined as the ratio of primary to secondary turns.
Transformation Ratio:
The transformation ratio is defined as the ratio of the secondary voltage to the primary voltage.
It is denoted by K.
Constructional Details
Depending upon the manner in which the primary and secondary windings are placed on the core,
and the shape of the core, there are two types of transformers, called (a) core type, and (b) shell
type.
1. Core Type Transformers : In this type of transformer the windings surround the iron core. Both
the windings are divided and half of each winding is placed on each limb. In such an arrangement
only one layer of high voltage insulation is required.
2. Shell Type Transformers: Both primary and secondary windings are wound on the central limb. In
this type of transformer the iron core surrounds the copper windings. The entire flux passes
through the central part of iron core, but outside this central core it divides into two parts half
going in each direction. In this manner, the leakage flux is reduced to very small value. To minimise
the amount of high voltage insulation low voltage coils are placed adjacent to the iron core.
1. There are two inductive coils of super-enamelled copper wire for primary and secondary windings.
The two-windings are insulated from the core and from each other. The coils used are former
wound.
2. Laminated Steel Core: The core of transformer is made of thin silicon steel laminations insulated
from each other by a thin coat of varnish. The eddy current loss is minimized by lanimating the
core. The thickness of laminations or stampings varies from 0.35 mm to 0.5 mm.The iron core is
rectangular in cross-scction for small size transformers and circular for large size transformers to
reduce the quantity of copper required.
3. Housing: Assembled transformers are generally housed in tightly fitted sheet metal tanks filled
with special insulating oil, known as transformer oil. The insulating oil serves two purposes:
a. Cooling of coils and core.
b. Insulating property.
The insulating oil used with a transformer should have high dielectric strength, low viscosity to
provide good heat transfer and good resistance to emulsion.
c. Sides of steel tanks are corregated on both sides to increase the cooling surface area.
4. Bushings: To insulate and to bring out the terminals of the transformer from the container,
bushings are used. Bushings are of three types:
a. Porcelain bushings used for low voltage transformers.
b. Oil-filled bushings used for voltage upto 33 kV.
c. Condenser-type bushings used for voltages above 33 kV.
5. Conservator: It is also called as expansion tank. It is a drum containing transformer oil and
mounted at the top of the transformer and connected to the main tank by a pipe. The main tank
is completely filled with oil but conservator tank is partially filled with oil. As the volume of oil of
transformer tank expands and contracts according to heat produced, this expansion and
contraction of oil causes the level of the oil in conservator to rise and fall. The aim of conservator
is to maintains the oil level in tank and provides space for the expansion of oil.
6. Breather: It is attached to conservator tank and contains silica gel, which prevents the moist air
from entering into the tank during contraction of oil. When oil is hot there is expansion and gas
passes to atmosphere through it. When oil is cooled, it contracts and the air enters in it.It prevents
transformer oil from moisture contamination.
7. Temperature Gauge: Every transformer is provided with a temperature gauge to indicate the
temperature of the hot oil in the transformer tank.
8. Oil gauge: Every transformer is provided with an oil gauge to indicate the oil level. The oil gauge
may be provided with the alarm contacts which gives an alarm when the oil has dropped below
permissible height due to oil leak etc.
9. Gas-Operated-Relay: (Buchholz Relay) It is protective relay of transformer. This device signals the
fault as soon as it occurs and cuts the transformer out of the circuit immediately. This is gas
operated protective relay. It is connected between the main tank and conservator tank. This relay
works on the formation of excessive oil vapours or gas inside the transformer tank due to internal
fault of transformer.
10. Tappings: The transformers are usually provided with few tappings on secondary side so that
output voltage can be varied for constant input voltage.
11. Radiators: Due to losses in the transformers, the oil near the windings gets heated and travels
towards the top of the tank. In large capacity transformers of about 50 kVA and above this
increase in the oil temperature is quite high. To dissipate this heat, radiators are provided in the
transformers. The radiators increase the surface area of the tank and thus more heat is radiated
in short time.
This method of transformer cooling is generally used in small transformers (upto 3 MVA). In this
method the transformer is allowed to cool by natural air flow surrounding it.
2. Air Blast :
For transformers rated more than 3 MVA, cooling by natural air method is inadequate. In this
method, air is forced on the core and windings with the help of fans or blowers. The air supply
must be filtered to prevent the accumulation of dust particles in ventilation ducts. This method
can be used for transformers upto 15 MVA.
This method is used for oil immersed transformers. In this method, the heat generated in the core
and winding is transferred to the oil. According to the principle of convection, the heated oil flows
in the upward direction and then in the radiator. The vacant place is filled up by cooled oil from
the radiator. The heat from the oil will dissipate in the atmosphere due to the natural air flow
around the transformer. In this way, the oil in transformer keeps circulating due to natural
convection and dissipating heat in atmosphere due to natural conduction. This method can be
used for transformers upto about 30 MVA.
The heat dissipation can be improved further by applying forced air on the dissipating surface.
Forced air provides faster heat dissipation than natural air flow. In this method, fans are mounted
near the radiator and may be provided with an automatic starting arrangement, which turns on
when temperature increases beyond certain value. This transformer cooling method is generally
used for large transformers upto about 60 MVA.
In this method, oil is circulated with the help of a pump. The oil circulation is forced through the
heat exchangers. Then compressed air is forced to flow on the heat exchanger with the help of
fans. The heat exchangers may be mounted separately from the transformer tank and connected
through pipes at top and bottom. This type of cooling is provided for higher rating transformers
at substations or power stations.
This method is similar to OFAF method, but here forced water flow is used to dissipate hear from
the heat exchangers. The oil is forced to flow through the heat exchanger with the help of a pump,
where the heat is dissipated in the water which is also forced to flow. The heated water is taken
away to cool in separate coolers. This type of cooling is used in very large transformers having
rating of several hundreds MVA.
When a sinusoidal voltage is applied to the primary winding of a transformer, alternating flux
ϕm sets up in the iron core of the transformer. This sinusoidal flux links with both primary and
secondary winding.
The function of flux is a sine function. The rate of change of flux with respect to time is derived
mathematically.
Where Ψ = N1ϕ
But w = 2πf
Putting the value of π = 3.14 in the equation (7) we will get the value of E1 as
Similarly
The equation (8) and (9) can also be written as shown below using the relation
(ϕm = Bm x Ai) where Ai is the iron area and Bm is the maximum value of flux density.
Ideal Transformer:
Definition: The transformer which is free from all types of losses is known as an ideal transformer.
It is an imaginary transformer which has no core loss, no ohmic resistance and no leakage flux.
The ideal transformer has the following important characteristic.
The above mention properties are not possible in the practical transformer. In an ideal
transformer, there is no power loss. Therefore, the output power is equal to the input power.
Behaviour of Ideal Transformer:
Consider the ideal transformer shown in the figure below. The voltage source V1is applied across
the primary winding of the transformer. Their secondary winding is kept open. The N1 and N2 are
the numbers of turns of their primary and secondary winding.
The current Im is the magnetizing current flows through the primary winding of the transformer.
The magnetizing current produces the flux φm in the core of the transformer. As the permeability
of the core is infinite, the flux of the core link with both the primary and secondary winding of the
transformer.
The flux link with the primary winding induces the emf E1 because of self-induction. The direction
of the induced emf is inversely proportional to the applied voltage V1. The emf E2 induces in the
secondary winding of the transformer because of mutual induction.
As the coil of the primary transformer is purely inductive the magnetising current induces in the
transformer lag 90º by the input voltage V1. The E1 and E2 are the emf induced in the primary
and secondary winding of the transformer. The direction of the induces emf inversely proportional
to the applied voltage.
Transformer with Resistance and Leakage Reactance
Z1 = R1 + jX1 ...and Z2 = R2 + jX 2 .
The impedance in each winding lead to some voltage drop in each winding. Considering this
voltage drop the voltage equation of transformer can be given as –
V1 = E1 + I1(R1 + jX1 )-------- primary side
V2 = E2 - I2(R2 + jX2 ) ------- secondary side
where, V1 = supply voltage of primary winding
V2 = terminal voltage of secondary winding
E1 and E2 = induced emf in primary and secondary winding respectively.
The primary and the secondary windings have some resistance represented by R1 and R2 and
the reactances by X1 and X2. Let K be the transformation ratio.
To make the calculations easy the resistances and reactances can be transferred to either side
that means either all the primary terms are referred to the secondary side, or all the secondary
terms are referred to the primary side.
The resistive and the reactive drops in the primary and secondary side are represented as
follows
• Resistive drop in the secondary side = I2R2
• Reactive drop in the secondary side = I2X2
• Resistive drop in the primary side = I1R1
• Reactive drop in the primary side = I1X1
The term
represent the equivalent resistance and reactance of the
transformer referred to the secondary side.
When the load is connected to the secondary of the transformer, the I 2current flows through their
secondary winding. The secondary current induces the magnetomotive force N2I2 on the
secondary winding of the transformer. This force set up the flux Φ2 in the transformer core. The
flux Φ2 oppose the flux φ, according to Lenz’s law.
• As the flux Φ2 opposes the flux φ, the resultant flux of the transformer decreases and this flux
reduces the induces EMF E1. Thus, the strength of the V1 is more than E1 and an additional
primary current I’1 drawn from the main supply. The additional current is used for restoring the
original value of the flux in the core of the transformer so that the V1 = E1. The primary current
I’1 is in phase opposition with the secondary current I2. Thus, it is called the primary counter
balancing current.
• The additional current I’1 induces the magnetomotive force N1I’1. And this force set up the flux
Φ’1. The direction of the flux is same as that of the φ and it cancels the flux Φ 2 which induces
because of the MMF N2I2 .
Therefore,
• The phasor difference between V1 and I1 gives the power factor angle Φ1 of the primary side of
the transformer.
• The power factor of the secondary side depends upon the type of load connected to the
transformer.
• If the load is inductive as shown in the above phasor diagram, the power factor will be lagging,
and if the load is capacitive, the power factor will be leading.The total primary current I1 is the
vector sum of the current I0 and I’1. i.e
Phasor Diagram of Transformer on Inductive Load:
The Transformer on Inductive load (lagging power factor load) is shown below in the phasor
diagram.
Let the equivalent circuit of a transformer having the transformation ratio K = E2/E1
The induced emf E1 is less than applied voltage V1 .This voltage causes current I0 no load current
in the primary winding of the transformer. The value of no-load current is very small, and thus, it
is neglected. Hence, I1 = I’1. The no load current is further divided into two components called
magnetizing current (Im) and working current (Iw).
These two components of no-load current are due to the current drawn by a noninductive
resistance R0 and pure reactance X0 having voltage E1 or (V1 primary voltage drop).
The terminal voltage V2 across the load is equal to the induced emf E2 in the secondary winding
less voltage drop in the secondary winding.
Equivalent Circuit when all the Quantities are referred to Primary side:
Equivalent Circuit when all the Quantities are referred to Secondary side:
No load current I0 is hardly 3 to 5% of full load rated current, the parallel branch consisting of
resistance R0 and reactance X0 can be omitted without introducing any appreciable error in the
behavior of the transformer under the loaded condition.
Further simplification of the equivalent circuit of the transformer can be done by neglecting the
parallel branch consisting R0 and X0.
VOLTAGE REGULATION OF A TRANSFORMER:
Definition: The voltage regulation is defined as the change in the secondary terminal voltage
from no load to full load voltage of the transformer. The voltage regulation determines the
ability of the transformer to provide the constant voltage for variable loads.
The voltage regulation is represented as
Where,
E2 – secondary terminal voltage at no load
V2 – secondary terminal voltage at full load
If the transformer is fully loaded, i.e., the load is connected to their secondary terminal, the
voltage drops appear across it. The value of the voltage regulation should always be less for the
better performance of transformer.
• The primary voltage of the transformer is always greater than the emf induces on the primary
side. V1>E1
• The secondary terminal voltage at no load is always greater than the voltage at full load condition.
E2>V2
By considering the above circuit diagram, the following equations are drawn
LOSSES IN A TRANSFORMER:
The power losses in a transformer are of two types, namely;
1. Core or Iron losses
2. Copper losse
These losses appear in the form of heat and produce (i) an increase in Temperature and (ii) a
drop in efficiency.
Core or Iron losses (Pi)
These consist of hysteresis and eddy current losses and occur in the transformer core due to the
alternating flux. These can be determined by open-circuit test.
Hysteresis loss Wh = yB 1.6f V watts
m
Where y = Steinmetz hysteresis co-efficient
Bm= Maximum flux density in Wb/m2
f = Frequency in Hz
V = Volume of the armature core in m3
Eddy current loss We = Ke Bm 2f2 t2V watts
EFFICIENCY OF A TRANSFORMER
Like any other electrical machine, the efficiency of a transformer is defined as the ratio of output
power (in watts or kW) to input power (watts or kW) i.e.
Power output = power input – Total losses
Power input = power output + Total losses
= power output + Pi + Pcu
Let V2,I2 and cos( 2 ) be the secondary terminal voltage, load current and power factor
respectively.
Total losses = Pi + Pc
V2 is approximately constant for a normal transformer. Hence, for a given power factor,
efficiency depends on the load current I2.
Condition for Maximum Efficiency
= V2 I2 cos 2
Transformer efficiency, V I cos + P + I 2R
2 2 2 c 2 02
It is evident from the above expression for transformer efficiency that numerator is constant and
for the efficiency to be maximum, denominator should be minimum.
d
(denominator) = 0
dI2
Pi
d V cos( ) + +I R =0
dI 2 2 I 2 02
2 2
Pi
0 +R =0
2 02
I2
P = I 2R ................................(1)
i 2 02
Therefore, efficiency of a transformer is maximum when the copper loss is equal to iron loss.
V2I 2 cos 2 [ P = P ]=
max V I cos + 2P i c
2 2 2 i
From equation (1). the value of output current at which efficiency of transformer will be maximum
Pi
I2 =
R02
Pi = Iron loss
Pi
X =
Pc
Iron loss
= X x full load kVA = full load kVA
Copper loss
OPEN CIRCUIT AND SHORT CIRCUIT TEST ON TRANSFORMER
The open circuit and short circuit test are performed for determining the parameter of the
transformer like their efficiency, voltage regulation, circuit constant etc. These tests are
performed without the actual loading and because of this reason the very less power is required
for the test. The open circuit and the short circuit test gives the very accurate result as compared
to the full load test.
The secondary winding of the transformer is kept open and the voltmeter is connected to their
terminal. This voltmeter measures the secondary induced voltage. As the secondary of the
transformer is open the no-load current flows through the primary winding.
The value of no-load current is very small as compared to the full rated current. The copper loss
occurs only on the primary winding of the transformer because the secondary winding is open.
The reading of the wattmeter only represents the core and iron losses. The core loss of the
transformer is same for all types of loads.
Calculation of open circuit test:
Let,
W0 – wattmeter reading
V1 – voltmeter reading
I0 – ammeter reading
Then the iron loss of the transformer Pi = W0 and
Working component Iw is
Putting the value of W0 from the equation (1) in equation (2) you will get the value of working
component as
Magnetizing component is
The iron losses measured by the open circuit test are used for calculating the efficiency of the
transformer.
The voltage regulation of the transformer can be determined at any load and power factor after
knowing the values of Zes and Res.
In the short circuit test the wattmeter record, the total losses including core loss but the value of
core loss are very small as compared to copper loss so, the core loss can be neglected.
All day efficiency of the transformer depends on their load cycle. The load cycle of the transformer
means the repetitions of load on it for a specific period.
• Increased Load: When load is increased and it exceeds the capacity of existing transformer,
another transformer may be connected in parallel with the existing transformer to supply the
increased load.
• Non-availability of large transformer: If a large transformer is not available which can meet the
total requirement of load, two or more small transformers can be connected in parallel to increase
the capacity.
• Increased reliability: If multiple transformers are running in parallel, and a fault occurs in one
transformer, then the other parallel transformers still continue to serve the load. And the faulty
transformer can be taken out for the maintenance.
• Transportation is easier for small transformers: If installation site is located far away, then
transportation of smaller units is easier and may be economical.
There are various conditions that must fulfill for the successful operation of transformers as
follows.
AUTOTRANSFORMER
A Transformer, in which a part of the winding is common to both the Primary and Secondary
circuit, is called an Auto Transformer. In Two Winding Transformer, Primary and Secondary
windings are electrically isolated but in Auto Transformer, the two windings are not electrically
isolated.
Since the direction of flow of load current is in the opposite to the current flowing in the Primary
because of Lenze’s Law, hence the current flowing in winding BC = (I2-I1)
ICB = (I2 – I1)
Saving in Copper: Volume and hence weight of copper, is proportional to the length and area
of cross-section of the conductors. But length of conductor is proportional to the product of the
current and number of turns i.e.,
Wa N1I1 N 2 I1 + N2 I2 N 2 I1
=
W0 N1I1 + N2I2
Wa N 1 I1 N2 I2 2N2 I1
=
W0 N1I1 + N2I2 N1I1 + N2I2
N2
Wa 2
=1 N1 = 1 2K
1
W0 1+ 2 I2
N 1+ K
N1 I1 K
Wa 2K N2 I2 1
=1 =1 K [ = K; = ]
W0 1+1 N1 I1 K
Wa = W 0(1 − K)
=weight of cu in ordinary transformer (1-K)
• Less costly
• Better regulation
• Less size for same ratings.
• Continuously variable voltage can be obtained by moving sliding contact on secondary.
• Low losses as compared to ordinary two winding transformer of the same rating.
There are various advantages of the auto transformer, but then also one major disadvantage, why
auto transformer is not widely used, is that
• The secondary winding is not insulated from the primary winding.
If an auto transformer is used to supply low voltage from a high voltage and there is a break in the
secondary winding, the full primary voltage comes across the secondary terminal which is
dangerous to the operator and the equipment. So the auto transformer should not be used to for
interconnecting high voltage and low voltage system.
• Used only in the limited places where a slight variation of the output voltage from input voltage
is required.
• The short circuit current is larger than that for two winding Transformer.
Applications of Auto transformer:
• It is used as a starter to give upto 50 to 60% of full voltage to the stator of a squirrel cage induction
motor during starting.
• It is used to give a small boost to a distribution cable, to correct the voltage drop.
• It is also used as a voltage regulator
• Used for giving variable voltage.
• Used in power transmission and distribution system and also in the audio system and railways.
• Used as furnace transformers for getting a desired supply to suit the fuenance winding from a
230V supply.
• Used in laboratories etc., for obtaining varying voltages;
• Used in transfonner oil testing set.
TAP-CHANGING TRANSFORMERS
The change of voltage is affected by changing the numbers of turns of the transformer provided
with taps. For sufficiently close control of voltage, taps are usually provided on the high voltage
windings of the transformer. There are two types of tap-changing transformers
1. Off-load tap changing transformer
2. On-load tap changing transformer
In order that the supply may not be interrupted, on-load tap changing transformer is used. Such
a transformer is known as a tap-changing under load transformer. While tapping, two essential
conditions are to be fulfilled.
• The load circuit should not be broken to avoid arcing and prevent the damage of contacts.
• No parts of the windings should be short–circuited while adjusting the tap.
The tap changing employing a center tapped reactor R show in the figure above. Here S is the
diverter switch, and 1, 2, 3 are selector switch. The transformer is in operation with switches 1
and S closed. To change to tap 2, switch S is opened, and 2 is closed. Switch 1 is then opened, and
S closed to complete the tap change. The diverter switch operates on load, and no current flows
in the selector switches during tap changing. During the tap change, only half of the reactance
which limits the current is connected in the circuit.
INSTRUMENT TRANSFORMERS
Transformers used in conjunction with measuring instruments for measurement purposes are
called “Instrument Transformers”. The instrument used for the measurement of current is called
a “Current Transformer” or simply “CT”. The transformers used for the measurement of voltage
are called “Voltage transformer” or “Potential transformer” or simply “PT”.
CURRENT TRANSFORMER
To measure the very high current of the running line without distrubing it, a split core type current
transformer is used. At the time of using, with the running line the ammeter is connected to the
secondary winding with large number of turns of thin wire and the running line acts as a primary.
The emf is induced in the secondary when a flux is produced around the running line and ammeter
gives the deflection.
Basically, the current transformers (C.T.) are step up transformers. The primary of the current
transformers consists of a few turns or even a single turn of thick wire to carry the current to be
measured. Current transformer is connected in series with the main circuit.
The secondary circuit of C.T. should never be kept open, when the primary winding is carrying a
current. If the secondary winding of a C.T is kept open, high emf might be induced in the secondary
winding which causes excessive heating of core and windings. Also causes accident to human life
and damage to C.T.
Current Transformer
It is a step down transformer and its principle of operation is same as that of a two-winding
transformer. The main point of difference is that the power loading of a P.T. is very small and
consequently the exciting current is of the same order as the secondary current while in a power
transformer the exciting current is a very small fraction of secondary load current.
The primary winding of potential transformer is connectcd to the system whose voltage is to be
measured.The secondary winding of potential transformer is connectcd to the voltmeter .
Potential Transformer
Difference between C.T. and P.T.: There are a few differences in the operation of a
current transformer and a potential transformer.
i. The potential transformer may be considered as a parallel’ transformer with its secondary
nearly under open circuit conditions whereas the current transformer may be thought as a series
transformer under virtual short circuit conditions. Thus the secondary of a P.T. can be open-
circuited without any damage being caused either to the operator or to the transformer.
ii. The primary current in a C.T. is independent of the secondary circuit conditions while
the primary current in a P.T. certainly depends upon the secondary burden.
iii. In a potential transformer, full line voltage is impressed upon its terminals whereas
a C.T, is connected in series with one line and a small voltage exists across its terminals. However,
the C.T. carries the full line current.
iv. Under normal operation the line voltage is nearly constant and, therefore, the flux density and
hence the exciting current of a potential transformer varies only over a restricted range whereas
the primary current and excitation of a C,T. vary over wide limits in normal operation.
Transformation Ratio :It is the ratio of the magnitude of the primary phasor to the secondary
phasor.
Primary Current
= for a C.T.
Secondary Current
Primary Voltage
= for a P.T
Secondary Voltage
Nominal Ratio = It is the ratio of rated primary current (or voltage) to the rated secondary
current
(or voltage)
Nominal Ratio Kn = rated Primary Current for a C.T.
rated Secondary Current
Kn−R
Ratio Error =
R
PhaseAngleError:
Ideally the angle between the primary current and secondary current should be 180 degree. But
there is some deviation from 180 degree. This deviation is called phase angle error.
180 Imcos𝛿−Iesin𝛿
PhaseAngleError = [ ] degree
π nIs
Burden : The product of voltage and current supplied by the secondary to the instrument is
called Burden on the secondary or rated ‘Burdens’ of CTs refer to the maximum load in volt-
amperes (VA) which may be applied across the secondary terminals, without the ratio and phase
angle errors exceeding the permissible limits. The burden depends upon the number or
instruments connected.
1. To measure large load currents, such as in transmission lines, with low range ammeters,
2. To operate protective relays.
3. To increase the current range of instruments such as wattmeters, energy meters etc.
4. To provide necessary electrical isolation for instruments from the supply.
1. To measure high voltage with low voltage voltmeter potential transformer is used.
2. It is used to operate the pilot lights.
3. To operate relays.
4. To increase the voltage of instruments like wattmeter, energy meter etc.