Steady-State Performance Characteristics of an Isolated Slip-ring Induction Synchronous Generator

Abstract

Because of its simplicity, low-cost and ruggedness, the conventional polyphase induction motor has been considered for many applications in which it can be used as a generator of electrical power. These include grid-connected as well as standalone applications such as air craft, fire fighting and wind turbine generating equipment. While schemes of varying complexity have been proposed for the control of the resulting output voltage and frequency, the process of self excitation by which an isolated machine can generate electrical power in the presence of appropriate amount of capacitance is still being investigated. In this dissertation project, an investigation into the steady-state performance characteristics of slip-ring induction machine operated as a synchronous generator in the presence of a rotary synchronous exciter is presented. It is shown that in addition to the enhanced controllability offered by machine D.C field excitation, considerable improvement of the resulting output voltage is obtainable through the rotary synchronous exciter. The relative size of this exciter requires future investigations.