FAULTS DETECTION METHODS FOR SYNCHRONOUS GENERATORS

Abstract

Synchronous machines are the most important and valuable devices in power systems. They are generally well constructed and robust, but the possibilities of incipient faults are inherent due to stresses involved in the electromechanical energy conversion process. Fault diagnosis can produce significant cost saving by allowing for the scheduling of preventive maintenance, thereby preventing extensive downtime periods caused by extensive failure .In addition to bad performance, faults reduce the life span of synchronous generators, and they are not only damaged the machine itself, but may also cause an interruption in power and hence loss of revenue. It is therefore of great importance to recognize imminent failures in the machines as early as possible, so that they can be corrected, thereby improving the reliability of power system. Early detection of incipient fault is desirable for on line condition assessment production quality assurance and improved operational efficiency of synchronous generators. The basis of any reliable diagnostic method is on understanding of the electric, magnetic and mechanical behavior of the machine in healthy and under fault condition.This paper evaluates through simulation line currents magnitude of synchronous generator at various types of faults using matlab program.