Excitation Control for a Synchronous Generator

The objective of this project is to develop a static exciter for a generator used in the BEL power Lab at the University of Idaho Campus. The exciter should support a continuous operating mode and a three to four second burst for fault correction and testing. The exciter will consist of three main modules: a rectifier, a converter and a controller.

Problem Definition
In this project it is desired that Three Phase either designs, assembles or purchases a static exciter. The Exciter must be capable of fast field forcing to temporarily increase the generator's AC output voltage during voltage sags caused by simulated faults. The exciter should also provide closed loop regulation of the generator's AC output voltage during normal operating conditions.

Fall Semester
Three Phase is expected to assemble or purchase a working exciter. Three Phase will then familiarize themselves with the generator and model power system so that they can test the exciter.

Spring Semester
Three Phase will program the exciter to preform the duties required by the client. Three Phase will develop and execute tests to confirm that the programming satisfies the clients needs.

Project Learning


Build
One possible direction Three Phase could have taken for this project would be to design each of the main components. This option would have had Three Phase building an exciter from scratch. This option was given some consideration; however, it was decided that there was too much work involved for the time permitted. Three Phase confirmed this assumption when they obtained a similar rectifier and controller that preformed closed loop regulation only, a 1996 design project. <>

Assemble
Once the "Build" option was eliminated Three Phase next looked at the possibility of purchasing the main components and doing the necessary assembly and programming. However, this option was placed on hold at the suggestion of the client. Three Phase will explore the "Buy" option and resume work on the "assemble" option if the buy option yields no viable results.

Buy
The "Buy" option is where an exciter will be purchased as an individual unit. This option requires Three Phase to develop a list of required specifications and locate a product that will meet all of the specs. In this option Three Phase will need to "spec out" an existing exciter, if the exciter meets all of the specs and is under the budget cap Three Phase will need to purchase and install the exciter. Installing the exciter will include programming the exciter to preform the functions desired by the client.

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