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Excitation Systems
The basic function of an excitation system is to provide direct current to the
synchronous machine field winding. In addition, the excitation system performs
control and protective functions essential to the satisfactory performance of the power
system by controlling the field voltage and thereby the field current.
The control functions include the control of voltage and reactive power flow,
and the enhancement of system stability. The protective functions ensure that the
capability limits of the synchronous machine, excitation system, and other equipment
are not exceeded.
This chapter describes the characteristics and modelling of different types of
synchronous generator excitation systems. In addition, it discusses dynamic
performance criteria and provides definitions of related terms useful in the
identification and specification of excitation system requirements. This subject has
been covered in several IEEE reports [1-8]. These serve as useful references to
utilities, manufacturers, and system analysts by establishing a common nomenclature,
by standardizing models, and by providing guides for specifications and testing.
Models and terminologies used in this chapter largely conform to these publications.
8.1 EXCITATION SYSTEM REQUIREMENTS
The performance requirements of the excitation system are determined by
considerations of the synchronous generator as well as the power system [6,9].
315316 Excitation Systems Chap. g
Generator considerations
The basic requirement is that the excitation system supply and automatically
adjust the field current of the synchronous generator to maintain the terminal voltage
as the output varies within the continuous capability of the generator. This
requirement can be visualized from the generator V-curves, such as those shown in
Figure 5.19 of Chapter 5. Margins for temperature variations, component failures,
emergency overrating, etc., must be factored in when the steady-state power rating jg
determined. Normally, the exciter rating varies from 2.0 to 3.5 KW/MVA generator
rating.
In addition, the excitation system must be able to respond to transient
disturbances with field forcing consistent with the generator instantaneous and short.
term capabilities. The generator capabilities in this regard are limited by several
factors: rotor insulation failure due to high field voltage, rotor heating due to high
field current, stator heating due to high armature current loading, core end heating
during underexcited operation, and heating due to excess flux (volts/Hz). The thermal
limits have time-dependent characteristics, and the short-term overload capability of
the generators may extend from 15 to 60 seconds. To ensure the best utilization of the
excitation system, it should be capable of meeting the system needs by taking full
advantage of the generator’s short-term capabilities without exceeding their limits.
Power system considerations
From the power system viewpoint, the excitation system should contribute to
effective control of voltage and enhancement of system stability. It should be capable
of responding rapidly to a disturbance so as to enhance transient stability, and of
modulating the generator field so as to enhance small-signal stability.
Historically, the role of the excitation system in enhancing power system
performance has been growing continually. Early excitation systems were controlled
manually to maintain the desired generator terminal voltage and reactive power
loading. When the voltage control was first automated, it was very slow, basically
filling the role of an alert operator. In the early 1920s, the potential for enhancing
small-signal and transient stability through use of continuous and fast-acting regulators
was recognized. Greater interest in the design of excitation systems developed, and
exciters and voltage regulators with faster response were soon introduced to the
industry. Excitation systems have since undergone continuous evolution. In the early
1960s, the role of the excitation system was expanded by using auxiliary stabilizing
signals, in addition to the terminal voltage error signal, to control the field voltage to
damp system oscillations. This part of excitation control is referred to as the power
system stabilizer. Modern excitation systems are capable of providing practically
instantaneous response with high ceiling voltages. The combination of high field-
forcing capability and the use of auxiliary stabilizing signals contributes to substantial
enhancement of the overall system dynamic performance. This will be discussed in
detail in Chapters 12, 13, and 17.gec. 8-2 Elements of an Excitation System 317
To fulfill the above roles satisfactorily, the excitation system must satisfy the
following requirements:
. Meet specified response criteria.
Provide limiting and protective functions as required to prevent damage to
itself, the generator, and other equipment.
Meet specified requirements for operating flexibility.
Meet the desired reliability and availability, by incorporating the necessary
level of redundancy and internal fault detection and isolation capability.
8.2 ELEMENTS OF AN EXCITATION SYSTEM
Figure 8.1 shows the functional block diagram of a typical excitation control
system for a large synchronous generator. The following is a brief description of the
various subsystems identified in the figure.
©
Limiters and
protective circuits
®
Terminal voltage
transducer and. -§—
load compensator
® 0)
—| To power
Ref. Regulator Exciter Generator system
®
Power system |_|
stabilizer
Figure 8.1 Functional block diagram of a synchronous
generator excitation control system318
()
Q)
@)
4)
(6)
Excitation Systems Chap, g
Exciter. Provides de power to the synchronous machine field winding,
constituting the power stage of the excitation system.
Regulator. Processes and amplifies input control signals to a level and form
appropriate for control of the exciter. This includes both regulating ang
excitation system stabilizing functions (rate feedback or lead-lag
compensation).
Terminal voltage transducer and load compensator. Senses generator terminal
voltage, rectifies and filters it to de quantity, and compares it with a reference
which represents the desired terminal voltage. In addition, load (or line-drop,
or reactive) compensation may be provided, if it is desired to hold constant
voltage at some point electrically remote from the generator terminal (for
example, partway through the step-up transformer).
Power system stabilizer. Provides an additional input signal to the regulator to
damp power system oscillations. Some commonly used input signals are rotor
speed deviation, accelerating power, and frequency deviation.
Limiters and protective circuits. These include a wide array of control and
protective functions which ensure that the capability limits of the exciter and
synchronous generator are not exceeded. Some of the commonly used
functions are the field-current limiter, maximum excitation limiter, terminal
voltage limiter, volts-per-Hertz regulator and protection, and underexcitation
limiter. These are normally distinct circuits and their output signals may be
applied to the excitation system at various locations as a summing input or a
gated input. For convenience, they have been grouped and shown in Figure 8.1
as a single block.
8.3 TYPES OF EXCITATION SYSTEMS
Excitation systems have taken many forms over the years of their evolution.
They may be classified into the following three broad categories based on the
excitation power source used [4,8]:
DC excitation systems
AC excitation systems
Static excitation systems
This section provides a description of the above classes of excitation systems,
the different forms they take, and their general structure. Details regarding various
regulating and protective functions often included with the excitation systems will be
covered in Section 8.5.Sec. 8.3 Types of Excitation Systems 319
g.3.1 DC Excitation Systems
The excitation systems of this category utilize de generators as sources of
exoitation power and provide current to the rotor of the synchronous machine through
slip rings. The exciter may be driven by a motor or the shaft of the generator. It may
be either self-excited or separately excited. When separately excited, the exciter field
is supplied by a pilot exciter comprising a permanent magnet generator.
DC excitation systems represent early systems, spanning the years from the
1920s to the 1960s. They lost favour in the mid-1960s and were superseded by ac
exciters.
The voltage regulators for such systems range all the way from the early non-
continuously acting rheostatic type to the later systems utilizing many stages of
magnetic amplifiers and rotating amplifiers [10,11].
DC excitation systems are gradually disappearing, as many older systems are
being replaced by ac or static type systems. In some cases, the voltage regulators
alone have been replaced by modern solid-state electronic regulators. As many of the
de excitation systems are still in service, they still require modelling in stability
studies.
Figure 8.2 shows a simplified schematic representation of a typical de
excitation system with an amplidyne voltage regulator. It consists of a dc commutator
exciter which supplies direct current to the main generator field through slip rings.
The exciter field is controlled by an amplidyne.
DC exciter Main generator
Field Armature Field Armature
Slip ring
ony ape
Exe. field
theostat
Voltage
regulator
Figure 8.2. DC excitation system with amplidyne voltage regulator320 Excitation Systems Chap. g
‘An amplidyne is a special type of the general class of rotating amplifiers
known as metadynes [11,12]. It is a de machine of special construction having two
sets of brushes 90 electrical degrees apart, one set on its direct (d) axis and the other
set on its quadrature (q) axis. The control-field windings are located on the d-axis, 4
compensating winding in series with the d-axis load produces flux equal and opposite
to the d-axis armature current, thereby cancelling negative feedback of the armature
reaction. The brushes on the g-axis are shorted, and very little control-field power ig
required to produce a large current in the g-axis armature. The g-axis current produces
the principal magnetic field, and the power required to sustain the q-axis current is
supplied mechanically by the motor driving the amplidyne. The result is a device with
power amplification on the order of 10,000 to 100,000 and a time constant in the
range from 0.02 to 0.25 seconds.
In the excitation system of Figure 8.2, the amplidyne provides incremental
changes to the exciter field in a “buck-boost” scheme. The exciter output provides the
rest of its own field by self-excitation. If the amplidyne regulator is out of service, the
exciter field is on “manual contro!” and is changed through adjustment of the field
theostat.
8.3.2 AC Excitation Systems
The excitation systems of this category utilize alternators (ac machines) as
sources of the main generator excitation power. Usually, the exciter is on the same
shaft as the turbine generator. The ac output of the exciter is rectified by either
controlled or non-controlled rectifiers to produce the direct current needed for the
generator field. The rectifiers may be stationary or rotating.
The early ac excitation systems used a combination of magnetic and rotating
amplifiers as regulators [11]. Most new systems use electronic amplifier regulators,
AC excitation systems can thus take many forms depending on the rectifier
arrangement, method of exciter output control, and source of excitation for the exciter
[13-17]. The following is a description of different forms of ac excitation systems in
use.
(a) Stationary rectifier systems
With stationary rectifiers, the de output is fed to the field winding of the main
generator through slip rings.
When non-controlled rectifiers are used, the regulator controls the field of the
ac exciter, which in turn controls the exciter output voltage. A simplified one-line
diagram of such a field controlled alternator rectifier excitation system is shown in
Figure 8.3. In the system shown, which is representative of the General Electric
ALTERREX! excitation system [14], the alternator exciter is driven from the main
1 ALTERREX is a trademark of General Electric Co.sec. 8-3 Types of Excitation Systems 321
enerator rotor. The exciter is self-excited with its field power derived through
thyristor rectifiers. The voltage regulator derives its power from the exciter output
age.
volley alternative form of field-controlled alternator rectifier system uses a pilot
exciter as the source of exciter field power.
When controlled rectifiers (thyristors) are used, the regulator directly controls
the de output voltage of the exciter. Figure 8.4 shows the schematic diagram of such
an alternator supplied controlled-rectifier system, representative of the General
Electric ALTHYREX'! System [17]. The voltage regulator controls the firing of the
thyristors. The exciter alternator is self-excited and uses an independent static voltage
regulator to maintain its output voltage. Since the thyristors directly control the exciter
output, this system inherently provides high initial response (small response time).
As shown in Figures 8.3 and 8.4, two independent modes of regulation are
provided: ( 1) ac regulator to automatically maintain the main generator stator terminal
voltage at a desired value corresponding to the ac reference; and (2) de regulator to
maintain constant generator field voltage as determined by the de reference. The de
regulator or manual control mode caters to situations where the ac regulator is faulty
or needs to be disabled. The input signals to the ac regulator include auxiliary inputs
which provide additional control and protective functions which will be described in
Section 8.5.
AC exciter Main generator
Field Armature stationary diode ‘Field Armature
Slip ring
= Hs
| ot Kr
~ADC
DC ref.
Controlled << regulator
rectifier f
AC
regulator |. aux. inputs
ca a
Figure 8.3 Field-controlled alternator rectifier excitation system
| ALTHYREX is a trademark of General Electric Co.322 Excitation Systems Chap. g
AC exciter Main generator
i Stationary i
Field Armature controlled rectifier Field Armature
IO GMOme
opt aa
Kt De nt
regulator
[ Exe.
Teg.
1S
}=—Aux. inputs
AC
regulator
Figure 8.4 Alternator-supplied controlled-rectifier excitation system
(6) Rotating rectifier systems
With rotating rectifiers, the need for slip rings and brushes is eliminated, and
the de output is directly fed to the main generator field. As shown in Figure 8.5, the
armature of the ac exciter and the diode rectifiers rotate with the main generator field.
A small ac pilot exciter, with a permanent magnet rotor (shown as N S in the figure),
rotates with the exciter armature and the diode rectifiers. The rectified output of the
pilot exciter stator energizes the stationary field of the ac exciter. The voltage
regulator controls the ac exciter field, which in turn controls the field of the main
generator.
Such a system is referred to as a brushless excitation system. It was developed
to avoid problems with the use of brushes that were perceived to exist when supplying
the high field currents of very large generators; for example, the power supplied to
the field of a 600 MW generator is on the order of 1 MW. However, with well-
maintained brushes and slip rings, these perceived problems did not actually develop.
AC excitation systems with and without brushes have performed equally well.
High initial-response performance of brushless excitation can be achieved by
special design of the ac exciter and high voltage forcing of the exciter stationary field
winding. An example of such a system is the Westinghouse high initial response
brushless excitation system [13].
Brushless excitation systems do not allow direct measurement of generator
field current or voltage. Manual control of main generator voltage is provided by an
adjustable de input setting to the thyristor gating circuits. For the sake of simplicity,
the functions of the control circuitry are not shown in detail in Figure 8.5.Sec. 8.3. Types of Excitation Systems 323
Pilot exciter Rotating structure Main generator
AC exciter Field | Armature
Regulator +—— Manual control
|+— Aux. inputs
Figure 8.5 Brushless excitation system
8.3.3 Static Excitation Systems
All components in these systems are static or stationary. Static rectifiers,
controlled or uncontrolled, supply the excitation current directly to the field of the
main synchronous generator through slip rings. The supply of power to the rectifiers
is from the main generator (or the station auxiliary bus) through a transformer to step
down the voltage to an appropriate level, or in some cases from auxiliary windings
in the generator.
The following is a description of three forms of static excitation systems that
have been widely used.
(a) Potential-source controlled-rectifier systems
In this system, the excitation power is supplied through a transformer from the
generator terminals or the station auxiliary bus, and is regulated by a controlled
rectifier (see Figure 8.6). This type of excitation system is also commonly known as
a bus-fed or transformer-fed static system.
This system has a very small inherent time constant. The maximum exciter
output voltage (ceiling voltage) is, however, dependent on the input ac voltage. Hence,
during system-fault conditions causing depressed generator terminal voltage, the
available exciter ceiling voltage is reduced. This limitation of the excitation system
is, to a large extent, offset by its virtually instantaneous response and high post-fault
field-forcing capability [18,19]. In addition, it is inexpensive and easily maintainable.
For generators connected to large power systems such excitation systems perform
satisfactorily [18]. Compounding ancillaries, such as those described below, are not
normally justified; they are likely important for generators feeding power directly into
small industrial networks with slow fault-clearing.324 Excitation Systems Chap. g
Exciter Main generator
transformer Controlled rectifier Field Armature
Slip ring
the > t =
phase act me PT
t Field Lol
Lt pc ‘DC ref.
T] regulator
* Alternatively, from i _
auxiliary bus | AC ref.
Wy AC i
4] regulator [ux inputs
Figure 8.6 Potential-source controlled-rectifier excitation system
Examples of this type of excitation system are: Canadian General Electric
Silicomatic excitation system, Westinghouse type PS excitation system, General
Electric potential source static excitation system, and ABB, Reyrolle-Parsons, GEC-
Eliott, Toshiba, Mitsubishi, and Hitachi static excitation systems.
(6) Compound-source rectifier systems
The power to the excitation system in this case is formed by utilizing the
current as well as the voltage of the main generator. This may be achieved by means
of a power potential transformer (PPT) and a saturable-current transformer (SCT) as
illustrated in Figure 8.7. Alternatively, the voltage and current sources may be
combined by utilizing a single excitation transformer, referred to as a saturable-current
potential transformer (SCPT).
The regulator controls the exciter output through controlled saturation of the
excitation transformer. When the generator is not supplying a load, the armature
current is zero and the potential source supplies the entire excitation power. Under
loaded conditions, part of the excitation power is derived from the generator current.
During a system-fault condition, with severely depressed generator terminal voltage,
the current input enables the exciter to provide high field-forcing capability.
Examples of this type of excitation system are General Electric SCT-PPT and
SCPT static excitation systems.gec. 8.3 Types of Excitation Systems 325
Main generator
Saturable Armature
current transformer
or eer
neutral - Field —
to nding Power rectifier ik Power
l Ga rings “Y"potential |
p transformer
Current a
Source | Voltage source
| Linear reactor
Regulator
Aux. inputs
—___
Figure 8.7 Compound-source rectifier excitation system
(c) Compound-controlled rectifier excitation systems
This system utilizes controlled rectifiers in the exciter output circuits and the
compounding of voltage and current-derived sources within the generator stator to
provide excitation power. The result is a high initial-response static excitation system
with full “fault-on” forcing capability.
An example of this type of system is the compound power-source
GENERREX' excitation system [15,16]. Figure 8.8 shows an elementary single-line
diagram of the system. The voltage source is formed by a set of three-phase windings
placed in three slots in the generator stator and a series linear reactor. The current
source is obtained from current transformers mounted in the neutral end of the stator
windings. These sources are combined through transformer action and the resultant
ac output is rectified by stationary power semiconductors. The means of control is
provided by a combination of diodes and thyristors connected to form a shunt bridge.
A static ac voltage regulator controls the firing circuits of the thyristors and thus
regulates the excitation to the generator field.
The excitation transformer consists of three single-phase units with three
windings: current (C) and potential (P) primary windings, and a secondary output
winding (F). Under fault conditions, the fault current flowing through the excitation
transformer “C” windings provides the field-forcing capability when the generator
Voltage is depressed.
! GENERREX is a trademark of General Electric Co.326 Excitation Systems Chap. g
Excitation
transformer
Generator
Generator frame
Rectifier
pc f AC Aux. inputs
regulator 74] ye
DC ref. AC ref,
Figure 8.8 GENERREX compound-controlled rectifier
excitation system IEEE1976 [16]
The reactor serves two functions: contribution to the desired compounding
characteristic of the excitation system and reduction of fault currents for faults in the
excitation system or the generator.
The excitation transformers and reactors are contained in an excitation dome
that is bolted to the top of the generator frame, forming an integral part of the frame.
Field flashing for static exciters:
Since the source of power to a static excitation system is the main generator,
it is in effect self-excited. The generator cannot produce any voltage until there is
some field current. It is therefore necessary to have another source of power for a few
seconds to initially provide the field current and energize the generator. This process
of build-up of generator field flux is called field flashing. The usual field-flashing
source is a station battery.
8.3.4 Recent Developments and Future Trends
The advances in excitation control systems over the last 20 years have been
influenced by developments in solid-state electronics. Developments in analog-
integrated circuitry have made it possible to easily implement complex control
strategies.sec. 8.4 Dynamic Performance Measures 327
The latest development in excitation systems has been the introduction of
digital technology. Thyristors continue to be used for the power stage. The control,
rotection, and logic functions have been implemented digitally, essentially
uplicating the functions previously provided by analog circuitry.
The digital controls are likely to be used extensively in the future as they
rovide a cheaper and possibly more reliable alternative to analog circuitry. They have
the added advantage of being more flexible, allowing easy implementation of more
complex control strategies, and interfacing with other generator control and protective
functions.
8.4 DYNAMIC PERFORMANCE MEASURES
The effectiveness of an excitation system in enhancing power system stability
jsdetermined by some of its key characteristics. In this section, we identify and define
performance measures which determine these characteristics and serve as a basis for
evaluating and specifying the performance of the excitation control system. Figure 8.9
shows the representation of the overall excitation control system in the classical form
used for describing feedback control systems.
Power Plant
a ‘on| Controller |My amplifier |} (generator and |“
(regulator) (exciter) Power system)
Feedback
elements
Figure 8.9 Excitation control system in the classical feedback control form
The performance of the excitation control system depends on the characteristics
of excitation system, the generator, and the power system. Since the system is
nonlinear, it is convenient to classify its dynamic performance into large-signal
performance and small-signal performance. For large-signal performance, the
nonlinearities are significant; for small-signal performance, the response is effectively
linear.
8.4.1 Large-Signal Performance Measures [7]
Large-signal performance measures provide a means of assessing the excitation
system performance for severe transients such as those encountered in the328 Excitation Systems — Chap, g
consideration of transient, mid-term and long-term stability of the power system. Such
measures are based on the quantities defined below. To permit maximum flexibility
in the design, manufacture, and application of excitation equipment, some of the
performance measures are defined “under specified conditions”; these conditions may
be specified as appropriate for the specific situation.
(a) Excitation system ceiling voltage: The maximum direct voltage that the excitation
system is able to supply from its terminals under specified conditions [7,20].
Ceiling voltage is indicative of the field-forcing capability of the excitation
system; higher ceiling voltages tend to improve transient stability.
For potential source and compound source static excitation systems, whose
supply depends on the generator voltage and current, the ceiling voltage is defined at
specified supply voltage and current. For excitation systems with rotating exciters, the
ceiling voltage is determined at rated speed.
(b) Excitation system ceiling current: The maximum direct current that the excitation
system is able to supply from its terminals for a specified time [7,20].
When prolonged disturbances are a concern, the ceiling current may be based
on the excitation system thermal duty.
(c) Excitation system voltage time response: The excitation system output voltage
expressed as a function of time under specified conditions [7,20].
(d) Excitation system voltage response time: The time in seconds for the excitation
voltage to attain 95% of the difference between the ceiling voltage and rated load-
field voltage under specified conditions [7,20].
The rated load field voltage is the generator field voltage under rated
continuous load conditions with the field winding at (i) 75°C for windings designed
to operate at rating with a temperature rise of 60°C or less; or (ii) 100°C for windings
designed to operate at rating with a temperature rise greater than 60°C.
(e) High initial-response excitation system: An excitation system having a voltage
response time of 0.1 seconds or less [7]. It represents a high response and fast-acting
system.
() Excitation system nominal response': The rate of increase of the excitation
system output voltage determined from the excitation system voltage response curve,
divided by the rated field voltage. This rate, if maintained constant, would develop the
same voltage-time area as obtained from the actual curve over the first half-second
interval (unless a different time interval is specified) [7,20].
| Historically, the excitation system nominal response has been referred to as the excitation
system response ratio (see 1978 version of [7], and [20]).sec- 8.4. Dynamic Performance Measures 329
The nominal response is determined by initially operating the excitation system
at the rated load field voltage (and field current) and then suddenly creating the three-
nase terminal voltage input signal conditions necessary to drive the excitation system
voltage to ceiling. It should include any delay time that may be present before the
excitation system responds to the initiating disturbance.
Referring to Figure 8.10, the excitation response is illustrated by line ac. This
tine is determined by establishing area acd equal to area abd:
. d
Nominal response = —°°_
(a0) (oe)
where
oe = 0.558
ao = rated load field voltage
The basis for considering a nominal time span of 0.5 s in the above definition
is that, following a severe disturbance, the generator rotor angle swing normally peaks
between 0.4 s and 0.75 s. The excitation system must act within this time period to
be effective in enhancing transient stability. Accordingly, 0.5 s was chosen for the
definition time period of nominal response.
In the past, the nominal response has been a well-established and useful
criterion for evaluating the large-signal performance of excitation systems. With older
and slower excitation systems, this was an acceptable performance measure, but it is
Line ac such that :
area acd = area abd
‘Actual response
'
jd Rated load field voltage
Excitation output voltage
Time in seconds
ee
Figure 8.10 Excitation system nominal response330 Excitation Systems Chap, g
not adequate to cover many of the modern excitation systems. In particular, it is not
a good figure of merit for excitation systems supplied from the generator or the power
system, due to the reduced capability of such systems during a system fault.
For high initial-response excitation systems, the nominal response merely
establishes the required ceiling voltage. The ceiling voltage and voltage response time
are more meaningful parameters for such systems.
8.4.2 Small-Signal Performance Measures [3,7]
‘Small-signal performance measures provide a means of evaluating the response
of the closed-loop excitation control systems to incremental changes in system
conditions. In addition, small-signal performance characteristics provide a convenient
means for determining or verifying excitation system model parameters for system
studies.
Small-signal performance may be expressed in terms of performance indices
used in feedback control system theory:
* Indices associated with time response; and
* Indices associated with frequency response
The typical time response of a feedback control system to a step change in
input is shown in Figure 8.11. The associated indices are rise time, overshoot, and
settling time.
Output
Specified band
for settling time
0.17
Initial value
Delay time] Time
‘Time to reach]
peak value
Settlin;
Figure 8.11 Typical time response to step input. © IEEE 1990 [7]sec. 8.4. Dynamic Performance Measures 331
G
40} Asymptotic 0
approximation _49 B/dec 3
of gain 5
20 50S
<20 dB/dec &
8 s
£0 -100 3
g Phase angle $ 2
é a
-20 -150 3
2
=
Excitation Synchronous
-40 system machine, -200
+
-60 -250
oo
0.01 0.1 1.0 10 100 1000
@ in rad/s
Figure 8.12 Typical open-loop frequency response of an excitation
control system with generator open-circuited. © IEEE 1990 [7]
A typical open-loop frequency response characteristic of an excitation control
system with the generator open-circuited is shown in Figure 8.12.
The performance indices associated with the open-loop frequency response are
the low frequency gain G, crossover frequency w,, phase margin ¢,,, and gain margin
G, Larger values of G provide better steady-state voltage regulation, and larger
crossover frequency @, indicates faster response. Larger values of phase margin $,,
and gain margin G,, provide a more stable excitation control loop. (The reference here
is to excitation control system stability and not power system synchronous stability.)
In tuning the voltage regulator, an improvement to one index will most likely
be to the detriment of other indices. For example, an increase in regulator gain will
shift the gain curve in Figure 8.12 upward. This has the beneficial effect of increasing
the low-frequency gain and crossover frequency, but has the undesirable effect of
decreasing the gain and phase margins. In general, a phase margin of 40° or more and
gain margin of 6 dB or more are considered a good design practice for obtaining
astable, non-oscillatory voltage regulator system.
Figure 8.13 shows the corresponding closed-loop frequency response with the
generator open-circuited.332 Excitation Systems — Chap. g
0 50
3 g
5
5 o 8
a Phase angle =
8 =
5 Ss
= -10 50 8
= 2
r= >
Oo S
“15 -100 3
a
=
Excitation Synchronous
-20 system machine -150
to" r
YR
-25 -200
0.1 1.0 10 100
© in rad/s
Figure 8.13 Typical closed-loop frequency response with
generator open-circuited. © IEEE 1990 [7
The indices of interest associated with the closed-loop frequency response are
the bandwidth , and peak value M,,
A high value of M, (>1.6) is indicative of an oscillatory system exhibiting
large overshoot in its transient response. In general, a value of M, between 1.1 and
1.5 is considered a good design practice.
Bandwidth is an important closed-loop frequency response index. Larger values
indicate faster response. It approximately describes filtering or noise-rejection
characteristics of the system.
Generally accepted values of performance indices characterizing good feedback
control system performance are:
Gain margin > 6 dB
Phase margin > 40°
Overshoot = 5-15%
M, = 11-16sec. 8.5 Control and Protective Functions 333
It is not possible to define such generally acceptable ranges of values for other
gnall-signal performance indices: rise time, settling time, and bandwidth. These
indices are a measure of the relative speed of the control action. They are primarily
‘termined by the synchronous machine dynamic characteristics.
The performance indices given above are applicable to any feedback control
gystem having a single major feedback loop, i.c., a single controlled-output variable.
Therefore, they are applicable to an excitation control system with the synchronous
machine on open circuit or feeding an isolated load. Stable operation of the excitation
fontrol system with the generator off-line is ensured based on these performance
jndices and associated analytical techniques [3]. On the other hand, synchronous
machines connected to a power system form a complex multiloop, multivariable, high-
order control system. For such a system, the performance indices identified above are
not applicable. The state-space approach using eigenvalue techniques is an effective
method of assessing the performance of such complex systems. This is covered in
detail in Chapter 12.
8.5 CONTROL AND PROTECTIVE FUNCTIONS
‘A modern excitation control system is much more than a simple voltage
regulator. It includes a number of control, limiting, and protective functions which
assist in fulfilling the performance requirements identified in Section 8.1. The
extensive nature of these functions and the manner in which they interface with each
other are illustrated in Figure 8.14. Any given excitation system may include only
some or all of these functions, depending on the requirements of the specific
application and on the type of exciter. The philosophy is to have the control functions
regulate specific quantities at the desired level, and the limiting functions prevent
certain quantities from exceeding set limits. If any of the limiters fail, then the
protective functions remove appropriate components or the unit from service.
The following is a brief description of the various control and protective
functions, and the associated elements identified in Figure 8.14.
8.5.1 AC and DC Regulators
The basic function of the ac regulator is to maintain the generator stator
voltage. In addition, other auxiliary control and protection functions act through the
ac regulator to control the generator field voltage as shown in Figure 8.14.
The de regulator holds constant generator field voltage and is commonly
teferred to as manual control. It is used primarily for testing and start-up, and to cater
to situations where the ac regulator is faulty. In this mode of operation, it is the field
Voltage that is regulated; only operator intervention by adjusting the setpoint will
modify the field voltage. In some excitation systems, facilities for automatic setpoint
tracking are provided. This will cause the manual setpoint to continually track the
generator excitation variation due to the ac regulator and thus minimize the voltage334 Excitation Systems — Chap, g
Voltage sensing and]
load compensation
Power system
stabilizer
Voltage
sensing [ss
—| DC
"+ regulator [7
DC voltage { A Field | *
adjust i Exciter shorting Generator
‘AC ty
[regulator [~
AC voltage ——
adjust Exe. sys.
stab. circuits
Overexe. |**
limiter
Underexe.
limiter
‘V/Ha limiter
and protection
* Field-shorting circuits are applicable to ac and static exciters only.
** Some systems have open-loop de regulator.
*** — Overexcitation limiter may also be used with de regulator
Figure 8.14 Excitation system control and protective circuits
and reactive power excursions in the event the ac regulator is removed from service
abruptly. Care must be taken to ensure that a trip of the unit operating on manual
control does not leave the generator in an overexcited condition.
8.5.2 Excitation System Stabilizing Circuits
Excitation systems comprised of elements with significant time delays have
poor inherent dynamic performance. This is particularly true of de and ac type
excitation systems. Unless a very low steady-state regulator gain is used, the
excitation control (through feedback of generator stator voltage) is unstable when the
generator is on open circuit. Therefore, excitation control system stabilization,
comprising either series or feedback compensation, is used to improve the dynamic
performance of the control system. The most commonly used form of compensation
is a derivative feedback as shown in Figure 8.15. The effect of the compensation issec. 8.5 Control and Protective Functions 335
minimize the phase shift introduced by the time delays over a selected frequency
range [31- This results in a stable off-line performance of the generator, such as that
existing just prior to synchronization or following a load rejection. The feedback
eters can also be adjusted to improve the on-line performance of the generating
at Depending on the type of excitation system, there may be many levels of
gxcitation control system stabilization involving the major outer loop and minor inner
Joops. Static excitation systems have negligible inherent time delays and do not
require excitation control-system stabilization to ensure stable operation with the
generator off-line (see closure of reference 21).
Vv, To generator
Exciter
and AVR field
Compensation
SK,
1+sT,
Figure 8.15 Derivative feedback excitation control system stabilization
8.5.3 Power System Stabilizer (PSS)
The power system stabilizer uses auxiliary stabilizing signals to control the
excitation system so as to improve power system dynamic performance. Commonly
used input signals to the power system stabilizer are shaft speed, terminal frequency
and power. Power system dynamic performance is improved by the damping of
system oscillations. This is a very effective method of enhancing small-signal stability
performance.
The principle of operation of power system stabilizers and their structure and
tuning are discussed in detail in Chapters 12 and 17.
8.5.4 Load Compensation
The automatic voltage regulator (AVR) normally controls the generator stator
terminal voltage. Sometimes, load compensation is used to control a voltage which
is representative of the voltage at a point either within or external to the generator.
This is achieved by building additional circuitry into the AVR loop as shown in
Figure 8.16. The compensator has adjustable resistance (R,) and inductive reactance
(X) that simulate the impedance between the generator terminals and the point at
which the voltage is being effectively controlled. Using this impedance and the
measured armature current, a voltage drop is computed and added to or subtracted336 Excitation Systems — Chap, g
Generator step-up
Field Armature transformer
HT bus
To power
system
Load compensator
orth
L___,} RX,
Exciter Voltage
regulator
Figure 8.16 Schematic diagram of a load compensator
from the terminal voltage. The magnitude of the resulting compensated voltage (V,),
which is fed to the AVR, is given by
V, = fE+(R XT (8.1)
With R, and X, positive in Equation 8.1, the voltage drop across the compensator is
added to the terminal voltage. The compensator regulates the voltage at a point within
the generator and thus provides voltage droop. This is used to ensure proper sharing
of reactive power between generators bussed together at their terminals, sharing a
common step-up transformer. Such an arrangement is commonly used with hydro
electric generating units and cross-compound thermal units. The compensator
functions as a reactive-current compensator by creating an artificial coupling between
the generators. Without this provision, one of the generators would try to control the
terminal voltage slightly higher than the other; hence, one generator would tend to
supply all of the required reactive power while the other would absorb reactive power
to the extent allowed by underexcited limits.
With R, and X, negative, the compensator regulates the voltage at a point
beyond the machine terminals. This form of compensation is used to compensate for
the voltage drop across the step-up transformer, when two or more units are connected
through individual transformers. Typically, 50% to 80% of the transformer impedance
is compensated, ensuring voltage droop at the paralleling point so that generators can
operate in parallel satisfactorily. This device is commonly referred to as a line-drop
compensator although it is practically always used to compensate only for transformer
drop. The nomenclature appears to have been derived from a similar compensator
used on distribution system voltage regulators (see Chapter 11, Section 11.2).Sec. 8.5 Control and Protective Functions 337
In most cases, the resistance component of the impedance to be compensated
is negligible and R, may be set to zero.
Alternative forms of reactive-current and line-drop compensators are described
in references 8 and 22.
g.5.5 Underexcitation Limiter [23-26]
The underexcitation limiter (UEL) is intended to prevent reduction of generator
excitation to a level where the small-signal (steady-state) stability limit or the stator
core end-region heating limit (see Chapter 5, Figure 5.16) is exceeded. This limiter
js also referred to by other names such as underexcitation reactive-ampere limiter
(URAL) and minimum excitation limiter (MEL).
The control signal of the UEL is derived from a combination of either voltage
and current or active and reactive power of the generator. The limits are determined
by the signal exceeding a reference level. There are a wide variety of implementations
of the UEL function. Some UEL applications act on the voltage error signal of the
AVR; when the UEL set limit is reached, a nonlinear element (such as a diode) begins
to conduct and the limiter output signal is combined with other signals controlling the
excitation system. In a more widely used form of UEL application, the limiter output
signal is fed into an auctioneering circuit (high-value gate) which gives control to the
larger of the voltage regulator and UEL signals; when the UEL set limit is reached,
the limiter is given full control of the excitation system until the limiter signal is
below the set limit.
Methods of setting the UEL characteristics are described in references 23 to
25. The settings should be based on the needed protection, i.e., system instability or
stator core heating. In addition, the limiter performance should be coordinated with
the generator loss-of-excitation protection (see Chapter 13). Figure 8.17 indicates the
way in which the UEL characteristic (represented on a P-Q plane) is usually
coordinated with the calculated small-signal stability limit and the loss-of-excitation
(LOE) relay characteristic [28]. If the UEL is used to protect against stator end-region
heating, the coordination is done in a similar manner, except that the stability limit
is replaced by the heating limit.
If the input signals to the UEL are the generator stator voltage and current, the
limiting characteristic appears circular on a P-Q plane as shown in Figure 8.17. With
active and reactive power as input signals, the limiting characteristic would be a
straight line.
Care should be taken to ensure that the UEL performance during a transient
disturbance is not to the detriment of the power system performance [26,27].
8.5.6 Overexcitation Limiter
The purpose of the overexcitation limiter (OXL) is to protect the generator
from overheating due to prolonged field overcurrent. This limiter is also commonly
Teferred to as the maximum excitation limiter (MXL).338 Excitation Systems — Chap, g
z
%
8
+» 3
£6
E Pin MW
9
Q
3
2 Perera
°3| Underexcitation limiter
2
YS
Small-signal stability limit
Loss-of-excitation relay
Figure 8.17 Coordination between UEL, LOE relay and stability limit
The generator field winding is designed to operate continuously at a value
corresponding to rated load conditions. The permissible thermal overload of the field
winding of round rotor generators, as specified by ANSI Standard C50.13-1977, is
given by the solid curve of Figure 8.18. The curve passes through the following
points:
Time (seconds) 10 30 60 © 120
Field voltage/current 208 146 «125 «112
(Percent of rated)
The actual implementation of overexcitation limiting function varies depending
on the manufacturer and vintage of the unit. Limiters supplied by two manufacturers
are described in references 28 and 29.
The overexcitation limiting function typically detects the high field current
condition and, after a time delay, acts through the ac regulator to ramp down the
excitation to a preset value (typically 100% to 110% of rated field current). If this is
unsuccessful, it trips the ac regulator, transfers control to the de regulator, and
tepositions the setpoint to a value corresponding to the rated value. If this also does
not reduce the excitation to a safe value, the limiter will initiate an exciter field
breaker trip and a unit trip.
Two types of time delays are used: (a) fixed time and (b) inverse time. The
fixed time limiters operate when the field current exceeds the pickup value for a fixed
set time, irrespective of the degree of overexcitation. The inverse time limiters operate
with the time delay matching the field thermal capability, as shown in Figure 8.18.gec. 8-5 Control and Protective Functions 339
120
o
&
—_—
a
q
; \
= 60
2 Field thermal capability
5 \
30 N\,
Overexcitation limiting
a
00° 10 11 12 13 14 15
Generator field voltage per unit of rated value
Figure 8.18 Coordination of overexcitation limiting
with field thermal capability
Exciters with very high ceiling voltages may be provided with an additional
field current limiter, which acts instantaneously through the ac regulator and limits the
field current to the short time limit (typically 160% of rated value).
8.5.7 Volts-per-Hertz Limiter and Protection
These are used to protect the generator and step-up transformer from damage
due to excessive magnetic flux resulting from low frequency and/or overvoltage.
Excessive magnetic flux, if sustained, can cause serious overheating and may result
in damage to the unit transformer and to the generator core.
The ratio of per unit voltage to per unit frequency, referred to as volts per
hertz (V/Hz), is a readily measurable quantity that is proportional to magnetic flux.
Typical V/Hz limitations for generators (GEN) and step-up transformers (XFMR) are
shown in the following table.
V/Hz (pu) 1.25 12 Ls 1.10 1.05
Damage Time| GEN | 02 1.0 6.0 20.0 co
in Minutes | xrmR | 1.0 5.0 20.0 ©340 Excitation Systems Chap, g
The unit step-up transformer low voltage rating is frequently 5% below the
generator voltage rating; therefore, V/Hz limiting and protection requirements arg
usually determined by the transformer limitation. If, however, the generator ang
transformer voltage ratings are the same, the generator limitation would be more
restrictive.
The V/Hz limiter (or regulator, as it is sometimes called) controls the fielg
voltage so as to limit the generator voltage when the V/Hz value exceeds a preset
value.
The V/Hz protection trips the generator, when the V/Hz value exceeds a preset
value for a specified time. Usually, a dual-level protection is provided, one with a
higher V/Hz setting and a shorter time setting, and the other with a lower V/Hz
setting and a longer time setting. When used in conjunction with a V/Hz limiter, it
serves as a backup.
For many units, the V/Hz protection becomes overvoltage protection above
60 Hz.
8.5.8 Field-Shorting Circuits
Since rectifiers cannot conduct in the reverse direction, the exciter current
cannot be negative in the case of ac and static exciters. Under conditions of pole
slipping and system short circuits, the induced current in the generator field winding
may be negative. Ifa path is not provided for this negative current to flow, very high
voltages may result across the field circuit. Therefore, special circuitry is usually
provided to bypass the exciter to allow negative field current to flow. This takes the
form of either a field-shorting circuit, commonly referred to as crowbar, or a varistor
[8,30].
A crowbar consists of a thyristor and a field discharge resistor (FDR)
connected across the generator field as shown in Figure 8.19. The thyristor is gated
in response to an overvoltage condition that is created by the induced current not
initially having a path in which to flow. The thyristor so gated conducts induced field
current through the field discharge resistor.
Generator
Field
From exciter | Armature
FDR
Figure 8.19 Field bypass circuit using a crowbarsec. 8.6 Modelling of Excitation Systems 341
A varistor is a nonlinear resistor. When connected across the generator field
winding, 28 shown in Figure 8.20, it provides an effective means of bypassing the
Jrciter under conditions of high induced voltage. With normal exeiter voltage across
the varistor, it has very high resistance and hence carries negligible current. As the
voltage across the varistor increases beyond a threshold value, its resistance decreases
and current through it increases very rapidly. Thus the varistor provides a low
resistance path to induced negative field current and limits the voltage across the field
and exciter.
Generator
I Field
Varistor
..
Figure 8.20 Field bypass circuit using a varistor
In some cases, no special field shorting circuits are provided. The amortisseurs
associated with the solid rotor iron provide paths for the induced rotor currents. This
is sufficient to limit the induced voltage to a level that is below the withstand
capabilities of the generator field and the exciter. Since the field is not shorted, it
carries no current in the negative direction.
8.6 MODELLING OF EXCITATION SYSTEMS
Mathematical models of excitation systems are essential for the assessment of
desired performance requirements, for the design and coordination of supplementary
control and protective circuits, and for system stability studies related to the planning
and operation of power systems. The detail of the model required depends on the
purpose of the study. Referring to Figure 8.14, the control and protective features that
impact on transient and small-signal stability studies are the voltage regulator, power
system stabilizer, and excitation control stabilization. The limiter and protective
circuits identified in the figure normally need to be considered only for mid-term,
long-term, and voltage stability studies. Some excitation systems are provided with
fast-acting terminal voltage limiters in conjunction with power system stabilizers;
these have to be modelled in transient stability simulations.
In this section, modelling of excitation systems is described. We begin with
consideration of an appropriate per unit system, then describe models for the various
components, and finally present complete models for selected types of excitation
systems,342 Excitation Systems Chap. g
The material presented in this section conforms to the IEEE committee reports
on excitation system modelling. The IEEE work on standardization of these models
began in the 1960s, and the first set of models was published in 1968 [1]. This work
was extended, and improved models to reflect advances in equipment and bette
modelling practices were published in 1981 [4]. These were updated and refined in
1992 [8].
8.6.1 Per Unit System
In choosing the per unit system for exciter output voltage and current, there
are several options.
First, the per unit system used for the main synchronous machine field circuit
would appear to be the obvious choice. While this system was chosen to simplify the
synchronous machine equations (see Chapter 3, Section 3.4), it is not considered
suitable for expressing the exciter output quantities. This is because, for normal
operating conditions, the per unit exciter output voltage would be very small, being
on the order of 0.001.
Second, for excitation system specification purposes it has become standard
practice to use the rated-load field voltage as 1.0 per unit. However, this is not
convenient for use in the formulation of synchronous machine and excitation system
equations for system studies.
The third choice is to have 1.0 per unit exciter output voltage equal to the field
voltage required to produce rated synchronous machine armature terminal voltage on
the air-gap line; 1.0 per unit exciter output current is the corresponding synchronous
machine field current. This per unit system is universally used in power system
stability studies as it offers considerable simplicity. Here, we refer to this system as
the non-reciprocal per unit system to distinguish it from the reciprocal per unit system
used for modelling synchronous machines.
Excitation system models must interface with the synchronous machine model
at both the field terminals and armature terminals. The input control signals to the
excitation system are the synchronous machine stator quantities and rotor speed. The
per unit systems used for expressing these input variables are the same as those used
for modelling the synchronous machine. Thus, a change of per unit system is required
only for those related to the field circuit.
We now develop the relationship between the per unit values of the exciter
output voltage/current expressed in the non-reciprocal system and the synchronous
machine field voltage/current expressed in the L,,-base reciprocal system (see Section
3.4). For the synchronous machine, under open-circuit conditions, i,=i,=0. Substituting
in Equations 3.139, 3.140, 3.142 and 3.143 yields
(82)
(83)Sec. 8.6 Modelling of Excitation Systems 343
pu E,
Air-gap line, slope = L,4,
occ
pu ig
WL,
‘adu pu ly
1.0
Figure 8.21 Synchronous machine open circuit characteristics
Referring to Figure 8.21, the field current required to produce 1.0 per unit
stator terminal voltage on the air-gap line (slope = L,q,) is determined by
E, =e, = Leadig = 1.0 pu (8.4)
Therefore, in the reciprocal per unit system, the field current ij, required to generate
rated stator terminal voltage on the air-gap line is given by
The corresponding field voltage is
R,
fa = Bula = 7 pu
‘ad
By definition, the corresponding value of exciter output current J is equal to 1.0 per
unit. Therefore,344 Excitation Systems Chap. g
Tea = Laas (8.5)
and the corresponding exciter output voltage is
L,
Ey = He (8.6)
Physically, exciter output voltage/current and generator field voltage/current are the
same; distinction is made only in their per unit values to allow independent selection
of the per unit systems for modelling excitation systems and synchronous machines,
This is illustrated in Figure 8.22.
Exciter model PU conversion Syne. machin‘
-reci ‘a =(R, JL, a model
Non-reciprocal he “a (RulLaau) Ege A) Reciprocal
Pu system ba = Malleaa pu system
Figure 8.22 Per unit conversion at the interface between excitation
system and synchronous machine field circuit
Under steady-state conditions, the per unit values of Ey and Ig are equal.
During a transient condition, however, Ey and Ij, differ; Ej is determined by the
excitation system and J,, is determined by the dynamics of the field circuits.
A few interesting observations regarding the above per unit conversion are
appropriate at this time:
1. The factor Lag/R in Equation 8.6 is the steady-state value of G(s) (see
Chapter 4, Equations 4.14 and 4,17), in the absence of saturation.
2. Equation 4.24 in terms of AB, becomes
Ay,(s) LesTig AE
() =
a (sTA)d+sTZ) (8.7A)
= GS)AEy
The steady-state value of G(s) is equal to 1.0. There is thus a one to one
relationship between yy and Ey.sec. 8.6 Modelling of Excitation Systems 345
With amortisseurs neglected, Equation 8.7A becomes
Ayds) = hk (8.7B)
ao
From the steady equations developed in Section 3.6.3, with the generator on
open circuit, we have
Ay, = Ae, = AE,
Substitution in Equation 8.7B yields the following open-circuit transfer
function of the generator:
AE(s) 1
AE AS) 1+8Tjy
(8.70)
Example 8.1
The following are the parameters in per unit on machine rating of the 555 MVA, 0.9
p-f., 24 kV turbine generator considered in Examples 3.1, 3.2 and 3.3 of Chapter 3:
Lady = 1.66 Lagu = 1.61 1, = 0.15
Ly = 0.165 Rey = 0.0006 R, = 0.003
(a) The field current required to generate rated stator voltage E, on the air-gap
line is 1300 A and the corresponding field voltage is 92.95 V. Determine the
base values of Ey and J;; in the non-reciprocal per unit system and the base
values of eg and iz in the reciprocal per unit system.
(&) Compute the per unit values of Zy and J;, when the generator is delivering
rated MVA at rated power factor and terminal voltage. Assume that the
corresponding values of the saturation factors K,, and K,, are equal to 0.835.
Solution
(a) By definition, the base values of E, and Jy are respectively equal to the field
voltage and field current required to produce rated air-gap line voltage. Hence,
Ea tase = 92.95 V
Trt base = 1300 A
From Equations 8.5 and 8.6, the base values of eg and jg are
Lada ase
.66x1300 = 2158 A
4 base346 Excitation Systems — Chap. g
a base = Load RiadE fa base
1.66/0.0006)92.95 = 257.2 kV
The above base values of ey and i; as expected, agree with the values computed jn
Example 3.1.
(6) From the results of Example 3.2, at the rated output conditions,
.000939 pu
565 pu
a
lig =
The corresponding per unit values of Ey and Jy are
Egy = Laard Redd pa
= (1.66/0.0006)0,000939 = 2.598 pu
Toa = Lecla
= 1,66x1.565 = 2.598 pu 1
Specification of temperature
The base exciter output voltage depends on the synchronous machine field
resistance, which in turn depends on the field temperature. The standard temperatures
used for calculating the base exciter output voltage are 100°C for thermal units
(operating temperature rise greater than 60°C) and 75°C for hydraulic units (operating
temperature rise 60°C or less) [5]. However, care should be exercised in using these
temperatures for modelling of excitation systems.
The value of the field resistance used should correspond to the resistance under
the actual operating conditions being simulated, as closely as possible. The value of
T jp should be consistent with this value of field resistance.
The field resistance corrected to a specified operating temperature may be
calculated as follows [31]:
t.+k
R= (88)
t+k
t, = specified operating temperature, °C
1, = temperature corresponding to known or measured value of winding
resistance, °C
R, = winding resistance at temperature f,
R, = winding resistance at temperature 1,
where
‘The characteristic constant & depends on winding material. It is equal to 234.5
for pure copper and 225 for aluminium based on a volume conductivity of 62% pute
copper [31].sec. 8.6 Modelling of Excitation Systems 347
Example 8.2
The per unit Ry of a steam-turbine-driven generator is 0.00063 at 75°C and the
corresponding Value of Tip is 7.6125 s. The base exciter output voltage at the standard
temperature of 100°C is 105.575 V. If the generator is operating at a temperature of
60°C, find consistent values of Re, Tip, and base E,, at this temperature. Assume that
the constant k of the field winding material is 234.5.
Solution
The field resistance at 60°C is
234.5 +60
Reo = 0.00063 2243 *60
en ~ 0.00063
= 0.0006 pu
The time constant Tip is inversely proportional to Ry. Hence at 60°C it is
Ty Ries
60
= 7.61252:00063 _ 9.9 5
0.0006
The base Ey is directly proportional to Ry Hence at 60°C,
Base Eq) = base Fao 234.5+60 )
234.5+100.
= 105.575x0.8804 = 92.95 V a
8.6.2 Modelling of Excitation System Components
The basic elements which form different types of excitation systems are the
de exciters (self or separately excited); ac exciters; rectifiers (controlled or non-
controlled); magnetic, rotating, or electronic amplifiers; excitation system stabilizing
feedback circuits; signal sensing and processing circuits. We describe here models for
these individual elements. In the next section we will consider modelling of complete
excitation systems.
(q) Separately excited de exciter
The circuit model of the exciter is shown in Figure 8.23.348 Excitation Systems Chap. g
Ry Field Armature
.o WWW °,
Ly
Ey Ly Ey
4 oO
Figure 8.23 Separately excited de exciter
For the exciter field circuit, we write
= ay
By = Rely (8.9)
with
W = Lely
Neglecting field leakage, the exciter output voltage Ey is given by
Ey = Ky (8.10)
where Ky depends on the speed and winding configuration of the exciter armature.
The output voltage Ey is a nonlinear function of the exciter field current ,-due
to magnetic saturation. The voltage Ey is also affected by the load on the exciter. The
common practice [1,4] in de exciter modelling is to account for saturation and load
regulation approximately by combining the two effects and using the constant-
resistance load-saturation curve, as shown in Figure 8.24.
The air-gap line is tangent to the lower linear portion of the open circuit
saturation curve. Let R, be the slope of the air-gap line and A/,,denote the departure
of the load saturation curve from the air-gap line. From Figure 8.24, we write
E,
L,= zie (8.11)
ef
where Al,yis a nonlinear function of Ey and may be expressed as
Ay = ExS(Ey) (8.12)
where S,(Ey) is the saturation function dependent on Ey.Sec. 8.6 Modelling of Excitation Systems 349
Ey
Air-gap line
--- Open circuit curve
Constant-resistance
load-saturation curve
Operating point
Figure 8.24 Exciter load-saturation curve
From Equations 8.9 to 8.12, we have
R, 1 4E,
ef, x
Ey+RyS(E)Ex* (8.13)
R,* OOM Ky dt
The above equation gives the relationship between the output Ey and the input voltage
E.z A convenient per unit system for this equation is one with base values of Ey and
J, chosen to be equal to those values required to give rated synchronous machine
voltage on the air-gap line. Thus,
Irae = Ertl, 14)
Retase = Ry
Dividing Equation 8.13 by Eyjase We have
E, Ry E, E,
ef _ Se _*x x
at = f_* RSE)
Extase Re Exrase Extase male]350 Excitation Systems Chap. g
In per unit form, we have
- R- . -- 1 dé,
E,, = —£E,[1+5(E)]+—— (8.15
oR all SC Oe dt )
In the above equation, SE) is the per unit saturation function defined as follows:
SE) = Ala. p SE) (8.16)
x
bs
From Figure 8.25, with Ey and J, expressed in per unit, the per unit saturation
function is given by [4]
54é) - +8 (8.17)
The parameter Ky defined by Equation 8.10 may be written as
xe & Ey
KOT RTP rps
Ww Lyly Lyly
u E,
poe Air-gap line
Constant-resistance
load-saturation curve
Figure 8.25 Exciter saturation characteristicsec. 8.6 Modelling of Excitation Systems
Corresponding to any given operating point (Ig, Eyp), let
I,
= Lf
Lg, = Ly
Therefore, Ky=R,/L,,. Substituting in Equation 8.15, we get
= = = | dé
By = KyBy Se Epi Te
where
R,
K, = —2
Rx
L
T, = —&
R
5,E) - 5) %¢
Ex) ~ Mek YR,
351
(8.18)
(8.19)
(8.20)
Equation 8.19 represents the input-output relationship of the exciter. For a separately
excited exciter, the input voltage E,yis the regulator output Vg. The output voltage Ey
of ade exciter is directly applied to the field of the synchronous machine. Therefore,
the exciter may be represented in block diagram form as shown in Figure 8.26. In the
diagram, all variables are in per unit; however, the superbar notation denoting this
has been dropped.
V, = Ey Se(Ey)
Commonly used representation: V,=A,ye7*"*
Figure 8.26 Block diagram of a de exciter
Ey Exp352 Excitation Systems — Chap. g
The adjustment of field-circuit resistance Rj, affects Kz as well as the
saturation function S;(£y), but not the integration time T;, of the forward loop.
There are several convenient mathematical expressions that may be used tp
approximate the effect of exciter saturation. A commonly used expression is the
exponential function
Beds
Vy = EySp(E,) = Apye7®™* (8.21)
The block diagram of Figure 8.26 provides a convenient means of representing the
dc exciter in stability studies. However, the effective gain and time constant of the
exciter are not readily apparent from it. These are more evident when the block
diagram is reduced to the standard form by considering small-signal response:
AE,=AV, AE,= AE gy
1+sT
For any operating point with Ey=Epp=Eppo, the effective gain K and time
constant of the exciter for small perturbations are
1
K = ——1+__ (8.22)
Bex SeEppo)* Ke
T,
T- z (8.23)
Bry SE poo) *Ke
where S_(Eyo) =Agy
(b) Self-excited de exciter
Figure 8.27 shows a circuit model of a self-excited de exciter.
Ry
L
of
Ot
Figure 8.27 Self-excited de excitersec. 8.6 Modelling of Excitation Systems 353
For this exciter, the regulator output Vp is in series with the exciter shunt field.
therefore, the per unit voltage across the exciter field (without the explicit per unit
notation) is
1p = Vat Ey (8.24)
The relationship between the per unit values of E,y and Ey developed for the
separately excited exciter also applies in this case. Substituting for E,; given by
Equation 8.24 in Equation 8.15, we have
vi+E, = Pee ties eyj-t
+E, = —LE,[1+ +1“
aE =p Fal SEMI a
This reduces to
dE,
Vp = KE SgEQEx Te (8.25)
where
R
K, = —2-1
R,
L,
T, = = (8.26)
R
S, = SEy—*
The block diagram of Figure 8.26 also applies to the self-excited de exciter. The value
of K,, however, is now equal to R,/R,-1 as compared to R,/R, for the separately
excited case.
The station operators usually track the voltage regulator by periodically
adjusting the rheostat setpoint so as to make the voltage regulator output zero. This
is accounted for by selecting the value of K, so that the initial value of Vp is equal
to zero. The parameter Ky is therefore not fixed, but varies with the operating
condition.
(c) AC exciters and rectifiers
The ac exciter representation (excluding rectification) recommended in
Teference 8 for use in large-scale stability studies is shown in Figure 8.28.354 Excitation Systems Chap, g
Figure 8.28 Block diagram of an ac exciter
The general structure of the model is similar to that of the de exciter. However,
in this case the load regulation due to the armature reaction effect is accounted for
distinctly, and the no-load saturation curve is used to define the saturation function
S,. The exciter internal voltage Vy is the no-load voltage as determined by the
saturation function. The main generator field current Jp represents the exciter load
current, and the negative feedback of KpIpp accounts for the armature reaction
demagnetizing effect. The constant Kp depends on the ac exciter synchronous and
transient reactances [32]. Figure 8.29 illustrates the calculation of the saturation
function S, for a specified value of Vj.
The per unit saturation function is
S,(V_) = & (827)
Any convenient mathematical expression can be used to represent the saturation
function. As in the case of de exciters, a commonly used expression for Vy=V;,5,(Vs)
is the exponential function given by Equation 8.21.
Three-phase full-wave bridge rectifier circuits are commonly used to rectify
the ac exciter output voltage. The effective ac source impedance seen by the rectifier
is predominantly an inductive reactance. As described in Chapter 10, the effect of this
inductive reactance (referred to as the commutating reactance) is to delay the process
of commutation, i.e., transfer of current from one valve to another. This produces 4gec. 8-6 Modelling of Excitation Systems 355
Air-gap line
No-load saturation curve
pu exciter field current
Figure 8.29 AC exciter saturation characteristic
decrease in the average output voltage of the rectifier as its load current increases.
Reference 33 shows that a three-phase full-wave bridge rectifier circuit operates in
one of three distinct modes as the rectifier load current varies from no load to the
short circuit level. The mode of operation depends on the commutating voltage drop
(equal to the product of commutating reactance and load current).
The equations defining the rectifier regulation as a function of commutation
voltage drop may be expressed as follows [8,34]:
Egy = FexVe (8.28)
where
Fey = fy) (8.29)
and
K-l,
Ty = SSF 8.30
Woe (8.30)
The constant Ke depends on the commutating reactance. The expressions for the
function fy) characterizing the three modes of rectifier circuit operation are356 Excitation Systems — Chap. g
Mode 1: fly) = 1.0-0.577Iy, if 1y <0.433
Mode 2: fly) = $0.75-R, if 0.4330, then set 4° = 0, y = Ly
If y
presentation: 4 iF y
Ly
System equation: a _ uy
dt T
Limiting action:
If Ly0, then set 2 =0, y= Ly
If yLy, then y = Ly
If vv, y=u
If u>v, y=v If usv, y=v
Figure 8.37 Low- and high-value gating functions
(¥) Terminal voltage transducer and load compensator [8]
The block diagram representation of these elements is shown in Figure 8.38.
The time constant 7 represents rectification and filtering of the synchronous machine
terminal voltage. The parameters of the load compensator (described in Section 8.5.4)
are Ro and X¢. The input variables E, and J, are in phasor form. When load
compensation is not used, Rc and X¢ are set to zero.
The voltage transducer output V- forms the principal control signal to the
excitation system. If a load compensator is not used and Tp is negligible, Vo=E,.362 Excitation Systems — Chap. g
a th
- ——\_¥, T
Voy= |E,*(Re+iX¢)l,| >
—-| 1T,
Load compensator Voltage transducer
Figure 8.38 Terminal voltage transducer and load compensator model
8.6.3 Modelling of Complete Excitation Systems
Figure 8.39 depicts the general structure of a detailed excitation system mode|
having a one-to-one correspondence with the physical equipment. While this mode|
structure has the advantage of retaining a direct relationship between model
parameters and physical parameters, such detail is considered too great for general
system studies. Therefore, model reduction techniques are used to simplify and obtain
a practical model appropriate for the type of study for which it is intended.
The parameters of the reduced model are selected such that the gain and phase
characteristics of the reduced model match those of the detailed model over the
frequency range of 0 to 3 Hz. In addition, all significant nonlinearities that impact on
system stability are accounted for. With a reduced model, however, direct
correspondence between the model parameters and the actual system parameters is
generally lost.
The appropriate structure for the reduced model depends on the type of
excitation system. The IEEE has standardized 12 model structures in block diagram
form for representing the wide variety of excitation systems currently in use [8]
Vig
Amplifying stages Exciter
+
V.—=OF-O-O-E G, G, G,
5 |
Other
signals
° Minor loop
E, stabilization
Major loop stabilization
Hy fe
Figure 8.39 Structure of a detailed excitation system modelsec: 8.6 Modelling of Excitation Systems 363
‘These are intended for use in transient stability and small-signal stability studies. For
urposes of illustration, we will consider five of these models. These are shown in
Figures 8.40 to 8.44, with slight modification of the block diagram conventions to
conform to the recommendations made in reference 35. The figures include a brief
description of the key features and sample data. The suffix “A” accompanying the
designations is for the purpose of differentiating these models developed in 1992 from
similar models developed previously in 1981 [4].
The principal input signal to each of the excitation systems is the output V-
ofthe voltage transducer shown in Figure 8.38. At the first summing point, the signal
Ve is subtracted from the voltage regulator reference V,.¢ and the output Vs of the
power system stabilizer, if used, is added to produce the actuating signal which
controls the excitation system. Additional signals, such as the underexcitation limiter
output (Vye,), come into play only during extreme or unusual conditions. Under
steady state, Vs=0 and V,,r takes on a value unique to the synchronous machine
Joading condition so that the error signal results in the required field voltage E,. This
is illustrated in Example 8.3.
1. Type DCIA exciter model
Vs Vue Vee r
v5) L+sTo L HV Ky Exp
© T+sT, gate 1+sTy
‘ J
¥,
s Vewan
Ky
I+sT,
Figure 8.40 IEEE type DCIA excitation system model. © IEEE 1992 [8
* Alternate input point
The type DCIA exciter model represents field-controlled de commutator
exciters, with continuously acting voltage regulators. The exciter may be separately
excited or self-excited, the latter type being more common. When self-excited, Ky is
selected so that initially Vp=0, representing operator action of tracking the voltage
regulator by periodically trimming the shunt field rheostat setpoint,364 Excitation Systems — Chap. g
Sample data
Self-excited de exciter:
K,=187 —Ty=0.89Ty=1.15——Agy=0.014— Byy=1.55
K,=0.058 —T,=0.62 —Ty=0.06 = T,=0.173 TT =0.05
Vewax=17— Veggyy= 71-7
K,, is computed so that initially V_=0, and the load compensator is not used,
2. Type ACIA exciter model
VaMax Vamax
Vee
[SHV LV 1 Ve
[gate 7 “= [gate ste | ]
0
Figure 8.41 IEEE type ACIA excitation system model. © IEEE 1992 [8]
The type ACIA exciter model represents a field-controlled alternator excitation
system with non-controlled rectifiers, and is applicable to brushless excitation systems.
The diode rectifier characteristic imposes a lower limit of zero on the exciter output
voltage. The exciter field is supplied by a pilot exciter, and the voltage regulator
power supply is not affected by external transients.
Sample data
Exciter and regulator:
K,=400.0 T,=0.02—T,=0 Te= K,=0.03
T,=1.0 K,=1.0 7,-0.8 Ky K,=02
Vewax=73— Vesuw=~6:6 — Vayax=15.0 Vayyy=~15.0 Apy=0.1
Byx=0.03
The load compensator is not used, and Tx is negligible.sec. 8.6 Modelling of Excitation Systems 365
3, Type ACIA exciter model
Vv,
p= eax ~Keleo)
+! rea Ly
1+sTg | tate iets
Ves
Vouw
Veer
Figure 8.42 IEEE type AC4A excitation system model. © IEEE 1992 [8]
The type AC4A exciter model represents an alternator-supplied controlled-
rectifier excitation system — a high initial-response excitation system utilizing a full-
wave thyristor bridge circuit. Excitation system stabilization is usually provided in the
form of a series lag-lead network (transient gain reduction). The time constant
associated with the regulator and firing of thyristors is represented by 7,. The overall
gain is represented by Ky. The rectifier operation is confined to mode 1 region.
Rectifier regulation effects on exciter output limits are accounted for by constant Ke.
Sample data
Exciter and regulator:
K,-2000 7,004 T,=1.0 Ty=12.0 — Veyay=5.64
Vewyy=~453 K,=0 Vinax=10 —— Viygy=-1.0
4, Type STIA exciter model
The type STIA exciter model represents a potential-source controlled-rectifier
system. The excitation power is supplied through a transformer from generator
terminals; therefore, the exciter ceiling voltage is directly proportional to the generator
terminal voltage. The effect of rectifier regulation on ceiling voltage is represented by
Ke. The model provides flexibility to represent series lag-lead or rate feedback
stabilization. Because of the very high field-forcing capability of the system, a field-
current limiter is sometimes employed; the limit is defined by I, and the gain by K;p.366 Excitation Systems Chap, g
(ENawx-Kelp
HV \,_[GsTa@4sTo), LV \___| &»
gate (d+sT+sT od) gate
EVp
Vann ¥, an
Yor.
[sky
TesTp
* Alternate input points
Figure 8.43 IEEE type STIA excitation system model. © IEEE 1992 [8]
Sample data
Exciter and regulator:
K,=200.0 — T,=0 Vewax=70 — Veyy=-6:4 Ke=0.04
K,g=454 Ign Tys Tes Tos Toys Kes Tp not used
Viaax> Vieun> Vamax> Varun ate not represented.
Voltage transducer and load compensator:
T,-0.015 Ro=0 X,=0
5. Type ST2A exciter model
The type ST2A exciter model represents a compound-source rectifier excitation
system. The exciter power source is formed by phasor combination of main generator
armature voltage and current. The regulator controls the exciter output through
controlled saturation of the power transformer. The parameter 7; represents the
integration rate associated with the control windings; E-pyqy represents the limit on
exciter output due to magnetic saturation.
Sample data
K,=1200 T,=0.15 —-K,=1.0 7,-0.5 K,=0.65
Kp=0.02 7 y=0.56 — Vayyay=1.2— Veyyy=-12 Eppyay=3-55
Kp=1.19 — K,=1.62Sec. 8.6 Modelling of Excitation Systems 367
Vy Wer
Wee pot Vewan Erpmax
ot Ly aon, E,
as 7) HV Ky Ve 45 1 ‘ED
wy 4 gate | st | # \ sTp
Vy
Veg Ve | an
Vem
[_sKe
l+sTp |
¥, 7 = > \ Vj
7 Mer! Kelsi Krist > tt
i
f (ly
Ke Ve
Trp ——*)
* Alternate input point
Figure 8.44 IEEE type ST2A excitation system model. © IEEE 1992 [8]
Example 8.3
A generator is operating under steady-state conditions with an Ey, of 2.598 pu and
E,=1.0 pu.
(@) _Ifit is equipped with a type AC4A excitation system represented by the block
diagram of Figure 8.42, determine the value of Via.
(b) If it is equipped with a self-excited de excitation system represented by the
block diagram of Figure 8.40, determine the values of Kz and Vo:
The parameters of the excitation systems are the same as for the sample data provided
with the figures.
Solution
(a) Type ACSA excitation system of Figure 8.42
When Ey, is 2.598 pu, we have368 Excitation Systems — Chap, g
Va=EglKy
2.598
200.0
=0.013 pu
Since a load compensator is not used,
Vo=E,=1.0 pu
Under steady-state operation, V;=V» and V,=0. Since the generator is operating under
normal conditions, Vg, =0. Therefore, from Figure 8.42 we see that
Vig = VerVy
= 1.0+0.013 = 1.013 pu
(b) Selfexcited de exciter of Figure 8.40
In this case, K,, takes a value such that Vp=0. With Ey, at a steady-state value and
V_=0, Ving=0. Hence,
K,Eg = Vy
= “Age *®"H = -0,014e1552598
= -0.7852
Therefore,
_0.7852
2.598
= -0.3022
Under steady-state normal operation, V,=0 and Vs=0. With Vp=0,
V,
hg = 1.0 pu 1.
Modelling of limiters
The standard models shown in Figures 8.40 to 8.44 do not include
representation of limiting circuits, namely, the underexcitation limiter, V/Hz limiter,
and maximum excitation limiter. These circuits do not come into play under normal
conditions and are not usually modelled in transient and small-signal stability studies.
They may, however, be important for long-term stability and voltage stability studies.Sec: 8.6 Modelling of Excitation Systems 369
The actual implementation of these limiting functions varies widely depending
onthe manufacturer, the vintage of the equipment, and the requirements specified by
the utility. Therefore, models for these circuits have to be established on a case by
basis. Here we will illustrate how such devices are modelled by considering
specific examples.
(a Underexcitation limiter:
Figure 8.45 shows the model of an underexcitation limiter used in conjunction
with a type STIA (static) exciter. The parameters K- and Kp determine the
characteristics of the limiter on the P-Q plane. The output Vig, of the limiter is
applied to the HV gate of the exciter model of Figure 8.43.
1+sT,
kK, 4 sh flu Vor
GssTd+sT)
Tum
ale
Sample data:
0.015 K,=10.0 T,=64s T,=08s
Vey = 4.0 Vouyy = 4.0
Voyy = -0.2 Iyyy = -0.012
Kp = Radius of UEL characteristic
Ke = Centre of UEL characteristic
Figure 8.45 An example of UEL model [26]370 Excitation Systems — Chap, g
(b) V/Hz limiter:
An example of the V/Hz limiter model is shown in Figure 8.46. The operation
of the limiter is quite straightforward. When the per unit V/Hz value exceeds the
limiting value of Vz,,., a strong negative signal drives the excitation down. The V,,,
limit is set typically at 1.07 to 1.09 pu.
AVR summing
E, (pu) Vary function
P
A 1 Vz
fEY—E Ky 1 5 Kn &
Elf | s \
0
Veep
Sample data:
Voz = 1.07 Kz, = 1000 Kz, = 0.007
Figure 8.46 V/Hz limiter model
(c) Field-current or overexcitation limiter:
Figure 8.47 shows the model of a field-current limiter circuit. It is designed
to have a limiting action as shown in Figure 8.47(b). A high setting provides almost
instantaneous limiting at 1.6 times full-load current (FLC). A low setting of 1.05xFLC
in conjunction with a ramp timing function provides a limiting action with time delay
dependent on the level of field current. For example, a field current level of
1,325xFLC will be allowed for 15 s, followed by a reduction in current level to
1.05xFLC over the next 15 s.
Referring to the block diagram of Figure 8.47(a), when Iq exceeds the high
setting Ip,,/), signal V;, of control loop @ acts to reduce excitation instantaneously.
When the field current is below Jjy,/), the limiting action is through the control loop
@. The magnitude of the control signal Vj.) and the value of gain K, determine the
time delay and ramping action. Once the field current reaches the low setting Jpzya
the select switch changes to the low select position; this ensures that the field current,
in the event of a second disturbance, does not exceed the low setting for a minimum
period to allow cooling of the machine. When the field current is below [pz ys the
signal V;,, helps to reset rapidly the integrator output to zero.gec. 8.6 Modelling of Excitation Systems 371
AVR summing
fanction
K,
Vey High-low
select switch
Normally at"
high setting
(a) Block diagram representation
Sample data:
Tryyy = 1-6xfull load Leg Iriya = 1.05xfull load Leg
K, = 150 K, = 0.248 4 = 12.6
K, = 140 IMI = -0.085 LM2
Trp = 1.6 FLC
FLC = full load current
Trtyg = 1.05 FLC
° 30s ‘ime
(b) Limiting characteristics
Figure 8.47 Field-current limiter model372 Excitation Systems Chap. g
8.6.4 Field Testing for Model Development and Verification
Although most of the data related to excitation system models can be obtaineg
from factory tests, such data can only be considered as typical. The actual settings are
usually determined on site during installation and commissioning of the equipmen,
It is therefore desirable to determine the model parameters by performing tests on the
actual equipment on site.
The nature of the tests required will depend on the type of excitation system
being tested. A general procedure for model verification and development is ag
follows:
1. Obtain circuit diagrams, block diagrams, nominal settings and setting ranges,
Construct a detailed block diagram of the complete excitation system,
identifying gains, time constants, and non-linearities.
2. With the generator (synchronous machine) shut down, perform frequency
response tests and/or transient response tests on the individual elements
comprising the excitation system. Identify their transfer functions, non-
linearities, saturation characteristics, and ceiling limits. Using these data,
validate as much of the detailed block diagram of the excitation system as
possible and modify the diagram as necessary.
3. Perform frequency response and time-response tests with the generator running
at rated speed and producing rated voltage on open-circuit. Measure the overall
linear response and responses at various points of the system to a step change
in terminal voltage. Perform additional tests with the generator operating near
rated load. Validate the detailed model of the complete system by comparison
with the measured responses.
4. Reduce the detailed model to fit the standard model applicable to the specific
type of excitation system using techniques of classical control theory. Validate
the responses of the reduced model against the measured responses.
The above procedure is quite involved and time-consuming for the older slow-
response exciter. For a high-response excitation system, frequency response tests are
usually not required as the number of time constants within the major feedback loop
is small. For static excitation systems, model parameters can usually be obtained from
design data; field tests are required only for verification.
Techniques for field testing, performance verification and model development
of excitation systems are described in references 3, 7, and 36.