Skip to main content

Why Is a Synchronous Generator Used for Generating Electricity


There are a few reasons why synchronous generators are used to supply electric power

Constant Voltage.
Constant frequency.
Capability to deliver active as well as reactive power.
Appropriate synchronization between all alternators to an infinite bus bar (V=1<0 p.u constant).

Various generators from across the country synchronize with this infinite bus which can supply electric power from anywhere in the country. This has flexibility to increase the number of generating units synchronized with the infinite bus bar.



On the other hand if we use induction generators instead of synchronous generators, there will be two aspects

Reactive power requirement of I.G
2. Harmonic content in output power spectrum.

The I.G requires reactive power for its operation which needs to be provided either by capacitor banks or I.G. units must be connected to a stable grid where reactive power is available. If we use I.G’s for generation of electric power we will have severe active and reactive power issues and hence voltage will have imbalance. If we have to install capacitor banks, there will be huge costing in installation of these equipment s.

The output frequency of Induction Generator is variable which will create uncertainties in deciding ratings for electric equipment and load side equipment will have problems with varying frequency. To deal with this we need to convert Variable AC power to DC power and back to Fixed frequency AC power using power electronic equipment which induces high amount of harmonic content in output spectrum which is undesirable and design of Harmonic filters and their implementation will increase cost.

Hence Synchronous Generator is used to supply power which are mainly large generation units like thermal, hydro, nuclear and Gas power plant etc. Induction Generators are installed mainly in wind power plants and small hydro power plants.

Synchronous generators unlike induction generators have the capability to produce both active power and reactive and they have armature on stator so it is easy to collect power from them can be designed for high voltages. They remain synchronized with the bus and other alternators too and thus we have one common working frequency and one common voltage as that of bus. If induction generators were being used there would be problem of speed differences in generators working in parallel and thus of voltage produced thus causing disbalance in the generation unit.

Comments

Popular posts from this blog

Diesel Generator Power Ratings: Standby vs Prime vs Continuous

Diesel generator sets are commonly used in a variety of sectors due to their dependable performance and high efficiency. They can be used for emergency power supply in the event of a power cut or used in places without connection to a power grid. When selecting a diesel generator for your home or business, you need to consider many factors, such as generator’s ratings. In this article, we’ll explain the three basic rating types - standby, prime, and continuous in diesel generators. ISO-8528-1:2018 defines basic generator set rating categories based on four operational categories: Emergency Standby Power (ESP), Prime Power (PRP), Continuous Power (COP) and Limited-Time Running Prime (LTP). Read on and learn the application of power ratings for engines used in generating sets. Standby Power Rating Standby Power(ESP) is used to supply emergency power when the external power supply is interrupted, such as power outages. Standby power rated generators can supply reliable electricity as t...

Main Structural Features of Natural Gas Engine - Weichai WP13NG Gas Generator

1.1 Main structural features of natural gas engine ● A cover per cylinder, dependable operation, easy disassembly. ● Frame-type main bearing structure and high complete machine rigidity which benefits the reliability and  service life of complete machine. ● Electronic throttle is adopted to control engine revolving speed. ● Mixture supply system uses mixer to regulate air-fuel ratio and adopts proportional mix and supercharged inter-cooling method to stabilize gas supply. ● Water-cooling middle case turbocharger applicable to gas engine features is selected and circulating  water shall be used to cool down turbocharger lubrication cooling oil so as to effectively prevent  pressure bearing lubricating oil from coking and to improve turbocharger’s reliability. ● Designed gas mixing system satisfies gas fuel features to effectively support stable lean burn and enhance thermal efficiency. ● Two pairs of friction couples of inlet, outl...

What Should You Pay Attention to in Routine Maintenance of Diesel Generator Sets

In modern society, the stability of power supply is directly related to the operation efficiency of enterprises and people's quality of life. Diesel generators have become an indispensable backup power supply or main power source in various industries due to their high efficiency, durability and reliability. However, to ensure the smooth operation and optimal performance of the generator sets, regular maintenance is essential. Here is what you need to pay attention to in the routine maintenance of diesel generators. Keep your generator clean It’s important to keep the generator’s exterior and the generator room clean. Regularly remove any dirt, dust, or debris that may accumulate to on the generator’s surface. This is not only for the sake of beauty, but also for the smooth operation of the unit. Cleaning the generator’s exterior, air intake vents, exhaust outlets and generator room can effectively reduce the risk of generator overheating. In addition, check if the connection bol...