UN 5000 Users manual

Chapter 7
Operation

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Contents:
7

Operation........................................................................................................................................................ 7-3
7.1 Introduction.................................................................................................................................................. 7-3
7.2 Automatic voltage- and reactive power regulation of the synchronous machine.........................................7-3
7.2.1
7.2.2
7.2.3
7.2.4
7.2.5

The excitation system in the chain of the energy production

The synchronous machine on the network
The stationary behaviour of the synchronous machine
The dynamic behaviour of the synchronous machine
The transient behaviour of generator and network

7-3
7-3
7-4
7-14
7-17

7.3 Control and display elements.................................................................................................................... 7-20

7.3.1
7.3.2
7.3.3
7.3.4

General
Remote control (control room)
Analogue displays
Status and alarm messages

7-20
7-21
7-32
7-32

7.4 Local control.............................................................................................................................................. 7-34

7.4.1
7.4.2
7.4.3
7.4.4
7.4.5
7.4.6

Analogue value display

Fault display
Controlling the display
Printer key
Command keys
Service Panel

7-34
7-35
7-36
7-36
7-37
7-37

7.5 Operation of the system............................................................................................................................ 7-38

7.5.1
7.5.2
7.5.3
7.5.4
7.5.5

Checks before switching on

Switch-on sequence
Checks during operation
Shut-down sequence
Emergency-OFF

7-38
7-39
7-41
7-41
7-41

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7 Operation
7.1

Introduction
This part of the user manual describes how the excitation system has to be operated and
which points need to be observed for fault-free operation of the system. This document
mentions the necessary safety precautions and also contains a description of the
operating behaviour of the generator and the operation of the excitation system in
automatic and manual mode.

7.2
7.2.1

Automatic voltage- and reactive power regulation of the synchronous

machine
The excitation system in the chain of the energy production
Coal, gas, water, wind, sun etc. are primarily used to produce electrical energy. This form
of energy is usually converted first into mechanical and later in electrical energy using
turbines and generators. For the conversion into electrical energy synchronous machines
are mostly used, the output voltage of which is controlled by an excitation system. The
electrical energy is then distributed to the centres of consumers via transmission lines.
Primary
Energy

Electrical
Energy

Mechanical
Energy

Turbine

Consumer

Generator
Field
Current

Generator
Voltage

Excitation
System
Fig. 7-1

7.2.2

Excitation System in the chain of energy production

The synchronous machine on the network

In order to explain the automatic regulation in the excitation circuit of a synchronous
machine, the behaviour of the synchronous machine itself under all possible operating
conditions will first be examined in the following.
A regulated synchronous machine coupled to the network can be represented in simplified
form in accordance with Fig. 7 -2. The synchronous machine thereby represents the
regulated object. All other components together form the regulator or excitation system. In

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parallel operation with the network, the network influences the behaviour of the closed
regulating circuit and in this sense acts as an external interference variable.

Controlled Object
I

Synchronous
M a s c h in e

Disturbance
Ug

Network

Excitation
Sy s te m
Fig. 7-2

Regulating circuit diagram

The characteristics of the synchronous machine and the network are largely
predetermined. The excitation system only allows a correction of the overall behaviour in
the sense of a technical optimisation. This is achieved during commissioning through
adjustment of the corresponding regulating parameters.
In examining the behaviour of the regulated synchronous machine, a distinction must be
made between the stationary and the dynamic behaviour of the synchronous machine.
The stationary behaviour will primarily be addressed in the following, since this operating
condition can be influenced by the operating personnel from the control room. A number of
simplifications will be made and only those points will be examined which are relevant to
the operating personnel.

7.2.3

The stationary behaviour of the synchronous machine

In examining the stationary behaviour of electrical machines, a distinction is made
between

the electrical behaviour (currents, voltages) and

the mechanical behaviour (rotation, torque).

7.2.3.1 Electrical behaviour:

In order to describe the electrical behaviour in stationary operation, the synchronous
machine can be described by means of the following simplified equivalent-circuit diagram.

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Q-axis

Xd

D-axis

Fig. 7-3

Ep

Equivalent-circuit diagram of the synchronous machine

The equivalent-circuit diagram is derived from the familiar representation of a voltage

source with its internal resistance. The index d identifies the difference between the direct
and transverse axis. The induced rotor voltage or EMK forms the voltage source behind
the so-called synchronous reactance and depends on the rotational speed and the field
current of the generator. Besides the synchronous reactance, which is composed of the
main reactance and the control reactance, the ohmic resistance naturally also has an
effect. For the purpose of examining the voltage regulation of the excitation system, the
ohmic resistance can be disregarded.
In the plane of the drawing, the direction of the fluxes in the stator and rotor is identical.
The torque is zero since no active power is being transmitted. This direction is described
as the direct axis (d-axis). The direction perpendicular to this is called the transverse field
axis (q-axis).
In addition, we must distinguish between two different types of rotor structure in
synchronous machines:

salient-pole machines and

smooth-core machines.

The salient-pole machines (example shown in Fig. 7 -4) have a large rotor diameter and
are therefore used in slow-running drive assemblies such as water turbines with a
rotational speed range of 20 to1500 rpm.

Fig. 7-4

Salient-pole machine

Two-pole (and some four-pole) generators of smooth-core design are used for fastrunning drive assemblies such as steam and gas turbines with a rotational speed range
>1500rpm, (see Fig. 7 -5).

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Fig. 7-5

Solid pole machine

The way in which both types of machine function is essentially identical. However, if one
considers the simplified equivalent-circuit diagram in , the following should be taken into
account:

For the Solid pole rotor design, the effective air gap in the
d-axis and the q-axis is approximately equal, thus producing the reactances Xd Xq.

In the case of salient-pole machines, the magnetic

resistances differ due to the unequal air gaps, so that : Xd > Xq.
These different characteristics have a direct influence on the operating range of the
generator in network operation, as is illustrated in the following.

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7.2.3.2 Operating modes of generators

Generators can be operated in the following operating modes:

No-load operation where there is no load on the machine

Machine under load in parallel operation with the network

Machine under load in island operation

Basically, the same relationships apply to the operating conditions of the loaded machines
as to no-load operation . The sole difference is that the generator voltage is the dominant
regulating variable in island operation and the reactive power is the dominant regulating
variable in network operation.
The operating characteristics of the no-load machine and of the loaded machine in
network operation are examined in the following.
7.2.3.3 Operation of the unloaded machine (no-load operation )
In no-load operation, the terminal voltage of the generator is equal to the induced rotor
voltage. At constant rotational speed, this means that the terminal voltage depends
directly on the field current. In the range up to nominal generator voltage, a more or less
linear relationship exists between field current and generator voltage. When the generator
voltage exceeds the nominal value, a saturation effect takes place which is essentially
determined by the design of the stator iron. If one wishes to increase the generator
voltage further, above its nominal value, the field current must be increased
overproportionately.

Ug

Saturation

U gn
Generator
rated
voltage

No load
field current
Fig. 7-6

Ifo

If

No-load characteristic

7.2.3.4 The loaded machine in network operation

If the machine is under load, a current flows in the stator windings which causes a voltage
drop through the synchronous reactance. If the excitation current remains constant, the
terminal voltage would therefore be reduced. Here, the excitation system has the function
of preventing this drop in voltage by altering the excitation current.

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Starting out from the equivalent-circuit diagram () we can now develop the vector
diagram (Fig. 7 -7).

U=X
E

(E
MK
)

Fig. 7-7

Vector diagram of the synchronous machine

Assuming that the generator is loaded with a purely ohmic load, the generator current IG is
in phase with the generator voltage UG. As a result of the synchronous reactance Xd, a
voltage drop of U = Xd IG is caused via the direct axis which is perpendicular to the
terminal voltage. This defines the size and phase position of the induced rotor voltage EP.
According to the law of induction, EP is proportional to the rotational speed n and to the
magnetic flux in the air gap. The magnetic flux is, in turn, proportional to the field
current, so that with a constant rotational speed, which is the case in network operation,
the induced rotor voltage is proportional to the field current If.
We now change the nature of the load and assume a mixed ohmic-reactive load
impedance of Z', whereby IZ'I is equal to the previous load R. The amount of the current
remains the same, but it now lags behind the voltage by the phase angle . In order to
maintain the generator terminal voltage, a higher induced rotor voltage EP (EMK) is
necessary. The generator therefore requires a higher excitation current.
The angle between terminal voltage and induced rotor voltage has a geometrical and a
mechanical meaning. It describes the angle position of the magnet wheel relative to the
rotating stator field and is therefore referred to as the load angle. This leads us to the
second aspect of the synchronous machine, the stationary electromechanical
behaviour. In parallel operation with other generators which are connected with an active
network, completely different and new groups of questions arise such as: Where are the
limits of synchronous energy transmission, identified by the terms synchronicity and
stability? For this purpose we take a symbolic section through a two-pole machine in
order to examine the torque characteristic (Fig. 7 -8):

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m ech

m ech

m ech

el

= 0o

= 45

el

=90

el

"rubber band"

T 9 5 _ 0 1 5 4 .D R W

Fig. 7-8

Synchronising torque and load angle

Since the geometrical and electrical angles are the same in a two-pole machine, the
phase diagram can be compared directly with the cross-sectional drawing.
For the first case, we assume that the rotating stator field has the same direction as the
rotor field. At a rotor angle = 0, the transmitted torque is equal to zero. In the second
case, the stator field is at a load angle = 45. The mechanically-driven rotor now "pulls"
the stator field along by means of magnetic force. To illustrate the force effect between
rotor and stator, one can imagine a "rubber band". In stationary operation, the mechanical
drive moment is equal to the electrical torque. For the smooth-core rotor, the maximum
electrical torque is produced at = 90. In reality, this working point cannot be used,
because it is no longer stable. The rotor begins to slip in relation to the stator field. The
generator falls out of step and becomes asynchronous.
The maximum torque is proportional to the induced rotor voltage EP (EMF,
Electromagnetic Force Voltage) and to the stator current IG. Since the stator field has a
sinusoid distribution, the torque formula for the solid pole machine can easily be derived.

Md Ep IG sin

Ep UG
Xd

sin

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limit of stability

Md

drive
torque

Fig. 7-9

d2

~ If 2

d1

~ If1

Torque characteristic

The entire range of possible stationary operating conditions is usually described by means
of the power diagram (Fig. 7 -10). This diagram can easily be derived from the vector
diagram (Fig. 7 -7). If one multiplies the voltage vectors by a vector Ug/Xd, the previous
voltage vectors become power vectors and one obtains the power diagram shown below.

P
Active power

Rated power

Drive limit
Load angle
limit

G e n e ra to r

Field current
limit

Sn

- Q

-1

1
xd

under
excited
Fig. 7-10

+1

+ Q

I fo

M o to r

over
excited

Reactive
Power

Power diagram of a synchronous machine

Usually, only the upper semicircle is represented for generator operation. The circle
around the co-ordinate centre point has a radius which corresponds to the nominal
apparent power Sn. Sn is defined by the permissible temperature increase of the stator
winding. The permissible operating range of a generator is limited in the active power axis
by the drive limit of the turbine. Furthermore, the operating range in the reactive power

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axis is limited, in the so-called overexcited range, by the thermal design of the rotor
winding and, in the underexcited range, by the stability limit.
The overexcited range limit is essentially determined by the nominal excitation current.
The sector formed by the field current with the centre 1/xd limits the overexcitement range.
The nominal working point of the machine is derived from the intersection of the thermal
limits of the stator and rotor.
In the underexcited range, the thermal loading capacity doesnt play any role, but the
important thing is to maintain synchronicity. As can be seen from Fig. 7 -10, a safety zone
must be maintained between actual and maximum torque. It follows from this that the
maximum load angle may not be greater than approx. 70 - 80. The load angle for
any working point can be read from the diagram between the reactive power axis and
indicator for the excitation power Pf.
Usually, synchronous machines are operated within the slightly overexcited reactive
power range in order, on the one hand, to comply with the usual network conditions, and
also to guarantee an adequate torque reserve in the event of network faults.
7.2.3.5 Functions of the automatic voltage regulator in network operation :
The voltage regulating system ensures automatic adjustment of the field current to the
value which is necessary for the present operating condition. This means, on the one
hand, keeping the operationally necessary values constant in stationary operation, and on
the other hand carrying out a rapid adjustment if conditions change.
The basic electrical relationships will be explained with reference to the following structure
of a power generating and distribution system.

1
Tie
3
Regional grid

Substation

Power station
T 9 5 _ 0 1 5 7 .D R W

Fig. 7-11

Network structure

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A typical network structure consists of regional networks, usually with a ring-formed

basic arrangement. These regions are linked together by transfer stations and form an
interconnected network. Each network has feed points (power stations) and load points
(substations). These substations usually feed a consumer network which laid out in a
star-formed arrangement. In order to examine the system behaviour at a particular point,
the actual network configuration is represented in greatly simplified form.

X
G

Tr

Fig. 7-12

Net

Equivalent-circuit diagram of the network structure

The equivalent-circuit diagram shows the generator G, which can also stand for an entire
power station, with the reactance XTr (transformer reactance) between generator
terminals and high voltage busbar. The resulting load impedance ZL relates to this feed
point. The rest of the system is reduced to an external reactance Xe and a voltage of the
rigid networks. All power-generating units are united at this point. The line resistances in
the immediate vicinity can usually be ignored, whereas the capacity of longer transmission
lines must be taken into account.
The basic requirements of the automatic voltage regulating systems which must be
fulfilled in a typical network under stationary conditions, i.e. without faults, are:
1.

The voltage at the consumer connection should be kept within acceptable limits.

2.
Stable reactive power distribution in the case of several parallel-operated generators
within the power station must be guaranteed.
3.
The reactive power distribution within the network system should create minimal line
losses, with good stability, also during load changes.
4.

The generator should always be operated within the safe operating limits.
In order to achieve the aims of automatic voltage regulation under stationary operating
conditions, it is necessary to partly correct the natural behaviour of machine and network.
For this purpose, the voltage regulator is influenced with a value dependent on the current
reactive current. The effect of this influence on the voltage regulation becomes clear if one
applies the analogy of the frequency and active power regulation of the turbine.

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Network

Network

AVR
Governor

G
G e n e ra to r

T u r b in e
n ,f

Q
T 9 5 _ 0 1 5 8 .D R W

Fig. 7-13

Reactive power regulation

As long as the generator is in no-load or island operation, the rotational speed (frequency)
is maintained by the turbine regulator and the generator voltage by the voltage regulator.
In parallel operation with an active network, frequency and voltage are primarily
determined by the network and can only be altered to a small degree by the generator
group. The secondary control variables, the active power and reactive power, now
become the determining values in parallel operation .
However, an important difference exists between active power regulation and voltage
regulation. The frequency is the same throughout the entire network. This is not the case
with the voltage. Only the virtual "voltage of the rigid network" forms the value analogous
to the frequency.
How would a generator coupled to the network behave if it attempted, with the aid of its
turbine regulator, to keep the frequency of an entire network exactly constant? At the
slightest underfrequency, the turbine would fully opened or in the event of underfrequency
fully closed. Stable operation would be impossible. Only if we introduce a falling
characteristic such that the rotational speed reference value is decreased with increasing
power, it is possible to operate stably at any desired operating point. The active power is
derived from the intersection of the characteristic with the system frequency. The rise in
the characteristic is called frequency static and is defined as the ratio fn/f between no-load
and nominal load.
With rotational speed regulation, this static influence always acts with falling characteristic.
With voltage regulation, this static influence with negative characteristic is also introduced
if generators without step-up transformers are coupled to a common busbar. In most
cases, however, the generator is coupled to the network via a step-up transformer, so that
a natural static with negative characteristic is produced through the transformer- and
network reactance, see Fig. 7 -13.

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In such cases, the static influence is not falling, but is used to compensate the voltage
drop via the step-up transformer.
It must be emphasised that the expression 'static' only means the relationship between
the change in voltage and change in reactive power. This static must not be confused with
the residual error in proportional regulating circuits. The deviation in regulation, equivalent
to the setpoint-actual value difference, amounts to 0.0.5% in modern voltage regulators.
The effective reactive power static can be set by means of parameters between 20% and
+20%. Usual settings for the negative static are -4 to -10%, i.e. at 1 pu. reactive power,
the generator voltage is reduced by the set value (e.g. 4%).
For positive values, the generator voltage is increased to compensate the currentdependent voltage drop via the step-up transformer.

pos. static
neg. static

-Q

+Q

Fig. 7-14

Static influence on the voltage regulator

For the operating personnel, it is important to know that the generator voltage changes
through this static influence even if the setpoint is not changed from the control room.
7.2.4

The dynamic behaviour of the synchronous machine

The reactions of the synchronous machine to changes in the operating conditions are very
complex. For this reason, in the following the behaviour of the synchronous machine in
the event of changes will be considered in highly simplified form and in purely
phenomenological terms.
Firstly the question: What type of changes can be expected?

load

on the network side:

changes in voltage, frequency and

from the drive shaft:

changes in torque (load)

excitation

through faults: load dumping, short circuits, triggering of

Usually, one only deals with the reaction of the machine to the change in a single
parameter, because the relationships then remain simpler and easy to understand.
A distinction can be made between two groups of physical variables, which we will deal
with separately, although they are not wholly independent of one another:

The first group comprises the electrical variables such as

voltage, reactive power and excitation requirement (field current)

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The second group is represented by the mechanical
variables such as rotational speed or frequency, active power, torque and load angle.
We will start with the change in the electrical variables:
Let us assume that the network frequency and the torque of the drive shaft remain
constant. The field current is also kept constant and the internal resistance of the field
current source is disregarded .
What happens when a load is suddenly applied to the idling generator?
The effect varies greatly, depending on whether a change in active power or reactive
power is involved. We will consider the case of a pure reactive power change, for example
when an asynchronous motor is started up (Fig. 7 -15):
U

If = k o n s t .

U=I

*X

go

t
t = 0

Fig. 7-15

Reactive power surge for constant excitation current

For the unloaded generator, the terminal voltage Ug is equal to the induced rotor voltage
Ep. After the circuit breaker S is closed, a reactive current IQ begins to flow immediately
and causes a voltage drop through the generator reactance. The original magnetic flux,
which passes through stator and rotor, cannot change instantly. The consequence of this
is that a contrary current is induced in the rotor circuit via the air gap in order to
compensate the changes on the stator side and maintain the balance of the circulation.
For the simplified equivalent-circuit diagram shown in this means that the direct axis
reactance Xd is replaced by the transient reactance Xd', which is 510 times smaller
than the synchronous reactance Xd.
7.2.4.1 The influence of the cage winding
Nowadays, almost all rotors of synchronous machines are equipped with a cage-like
short-circuit winding similar to that of an asynchronous motor. This short-circuit winding,
also called a damping winding, serves the purpose of electrodynamically damping the
rotor oscillations. In the salient-pole design, solid pole caps or pole grids bring about a
similar effect. The damping winding is coupled very closely to the air gap flux and its time
constant is short. During the first 10 milliseconds, the induced compensation current
practically only flows in this damping winding. The actual reactance is thus reduced in turn
and is called subtransient direct-axis reactance Xd".
The time sequence of the dynamic processes is determined by the time constant T, which
can be calculated from the relationship between the inductivity L and effective resistance
R of the circuit. The subtransient time constant Td" is very short and we see it practically
as a voltage jump without rise time. For the transient time constants, a distinction is made

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between no-load, unsaturated and short-circuited, saturated conditions of the machine,

since the inductivity varies greatly with the degree of saturation.
The no-load time constant Tdo' is approximately three times greater than the short-circuit
time constant Td'. The effective time constant for a machine under load lies between these.
In the case of the sudden loading with reactive power and constant excitation described
above (excitation in manual mode), the terminal voltage drops, first with Td" and then with
Td', to a value which is co-determined by the synchronous reactance.
If the generator voltage is regulated, i.e. the excitation operates in automatic mode, then
in the event of a voltage drop the field current is automatically increased and the
generator voltage brought back to its original value as illustrated in Fig. 7 -16. How
quickly the generator voltage recovers after the drop essentially depends on the type and
design of the excitation system, i.e. whether this involves indirect excitation with an
excitation machine or a static excitation system. The static excitation system displays a
significantly faster reaction time than indirect excitation.

static excitation system

with rotating exciter

U=I

*X

go

t
t = 0
Fig. 7-16

Reactive power surge with voltage regulation (automatic mode)

In the case illustrated above, only the reactive power is influenced. The load angle
therefore remains = 0. In Fig. 7 -17, the same experiment is repeated with active power.
In an earlier section it was recognised that the load angle is dependent on the active
power. We will assume that the generator is already connected to a consumer R0. In this
stationary condition, ignoring losses, the mechanical drive power PA developed by the
turbine is equal to the electrical active power PE output to the consumer.

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Fig. 7-17

Active power surge

If, by closing the circuit breaker S, the generator is now loaded with an additional active
power R1, the electrical power of the generator is immediately increased. However, the
drive power of the turbine initially remains unchanged and the balance between
mechanical drive power PA and output electrical power PE no longer exists. The increase
in the electrical power PE is primarily produced by the kinetic energy of all rotating
masses which are coupled with the shaft. This means that the rotational speed decreases
until the rotational speed regulator has increased the shaft torque by adjusting the quantity
of gas, steam or water passing through the turbine.
Whereas under stationary conditions the electrical torque is in balance with the drive
torque MA, the moment of inertia of the entire shaft arrangement d/dt plays a role
during transient events. The following dynamic equation must be fulfilled at each instant:

7.2.5

The transient behaviour of generator and network

In the terminology of control engineering, all changes originating externally are described
as "faults". There is a wide range with increasing influence up to serious interference with
normal operation, which will be examined briefly in the following.

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7.2.5.1 Types of faults affecting the generator

First, the difference between load change and load dumping should be mentioned: a
change in load can go down to zero, but the generator circuit breaker remains closed.
With load dumping, the generator circuit breaker is tripped, which means a change from
parallel operation to island operation.
The generator short circuit is characterised by the electrical distance between the
generator terminals and the location of the short circuit. A distance short circuit exists if the
short circuit occurs somewhere between the busbar and the rigid network. On both the
generator side and network side there are reactances which limit the short circuit current.
The most serious loading of the generator is caused by the terminal short circuit. Short
circuits near the power station lead to load dumping, which has to be triggered by the
protective equipment. In the event of a remote short circuit, the network must be
supported until the short circuit is eliminated by tripping of the network protection.
Load dumping: Immediate reaction by the automatic voltage regulator is required in the
event of load dumping. The way in which the generator voltage changes in the time
following opening of the circuit breaker is an important quality characteristic of a voltage
regulator or excitation system.
U

Overvoltage relay

with constant field current

with AVR (static excitation system)
U

IQ

Xd "

t
t = 0

Fig. 7-18

1 S ec.

Load dumping

The decrease of the reactive power current to zero causes a spontaneous and
unavoidable voltage rise U = IQ . Xd". If, for example, the subtransient reactance is
0,2 p.u., the dumping of 0,5 p.u. reactive current produces an immediate rise by 10%,
which cannot be reduced by any regulating action. Without an automatic voltage regulator,
the voltage would then continue to rise until the maximum value is achieved, which is
determined by the synchronous reactance. The rise time is dependent on the no-load time
constant Tdo.
With a voltage regulator, this further rise is more or less completely prevented, and the
voltage is restored to its original value. How quickly this is achieved depends on the type
and design of the excitation system. Static excitation systems, which directly influence the
field current of the generator, display the shortest reaction times, whereas indirect
excitation systems have to overcome the additional time constant of the excitation
machine. If the excitation system is operated in manual mode, the field current is
regulated, which leads to an undesired rise in the generator voltage until the overvoltage
relay of the generator protection is tripped and finally the generator is discharged. In order
to prevent this, the setpoint value of the field current regulator is reset to the value of the
no-load excitation current when the generator circuit breaker is opened.

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A large drop in the generators reactive power is also caused in the event of a distance
short circuit.
U

with voltage regulator

G
U

with constant field current

t=0

Fig. 7-19

1 sec

Distance short circuit

Such a fault at a remote electrical distance causes overcurrent and undervoltage, which
can be permitted for a short period. The voltage regulator provides maximum excitation in
order to support the voltage. At the instant the fault is eliminated by the selective
protective equipment, the voltage rises again in accordance with the reduction in load.
This overvoltage must, in turn, be adjusted to its original value by the voltage regulator.

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7.3
7.3.1

Control and display elements

General
The UNITROL 5000 excitation system is an integral component of the power station
installation. It is normally operated by remote control from the control room. The local
control panel, directly on the front of the excitation system, is only used for commissioning
and test purposes or as an emergency control option. If the power station installation
features a higher-level control system, the commands to the excitation system are given
by this power station control system.
The operating personnel must be familiar with the layout of the control and display
elements and with the effects of the commands on the excitation system. Using these
control and display elements, the operating personnel are in a position to adapt the
generator, via the internal control and regulating circuits of the excitation system, to the
operating conditions of the power station and/or of the network.
The excitation system is controlled in two ways:

REMOTE control from the control room with keyboard

commands. The commands are passed to the excitation system as binary signals.

REMOTE control from the control room with monitor screen

control. The commands are passed to the excitation system as binary signals or via a
field bus.

LOCAL control using the local control elements integrated in

the excitation system (local control panel).

Document number

ABB Industrie AG

3BHS114940/E80

Lang.

en

Rev. ind.

Sheet

20

The following table shows a summary of the commands available from REMOTE or
LOCAL control. The right-hand column (Feedback Indication) shows whether a feedback
indication is displayed in the control room.
Command
Exc. Circuit Breaker on
Exc. Circuit Breaker off
Excitation
on
Excitation
off
Control Channel 1 on
Control Channel 2 on
Operation Mode
auto
Operation Mode
manual
Setpoint Active Regulator
raise
Setpoint Active Regulator
lower
Reactive Power Regulator on
Reactive Power Regulator off
Power System Stabilizer
on
Power System Stabilizer
off
Control
local
Control
remote
Lamp Test
Release
Start exciter breaker on
Start exciter breaker off

Remote

Local

Feedback Indication

max pos
min pos

The shaded areas of the local commands mean that these only become effective if the
ENABLE key is pressed simultaneously on the local control unit.
In the following, the two forms of control REMOTE and LOCAL will be explained in detail.
7.3.2

Remote control (control room)

A number of control commands and a number of feedback indications are available in the
control room for remote control of the excitation system. In addition, the most important
status values of the excitation system and of the generator are displayed as analogue
values. These command keys, signal lamps and display instruments in the control room
which are required for control are not part of the UNITROL 5000 system.
The operating personnel must be familiar with the layout of the control elements and with
the effects of the commands on the excitation system. Using these control elements, they
are able to operate the generator, on the exciter side, according to the changing operating
requirements, both in automatic mode (AUTO) and in MANUAL mode.
The commands from the control room are effective if the excitation system is switched to
REMOTE. (see 7.3.4.2 page 32).

Document number

ABB Industrie AG

3BHS114940/E80

Lang.

en

Rev. ind.

Sheet

21

7.3.2.1 Commands and feedback indications

The commands and their effect on the excitation system and the generator are described
in detail in the following.
Excitation breaker ON / OFF
The ON command closes the excitation breaker, as long as no Trip signal is active. Once
the excitation breaker is closed the excitation can be switched on (see next section
"Excitation ON / OFF").
The OFF command switches off the excitation breaker together with the excitation (see
next section "Excitation ON / OFF"). The converter in the excitation system is thereby
switched to AC converter operation (feedback of the field energy) and the discharge
resistor is switched parallel to the rotor winding, so that the generator discharges quickly
via the converter and the discharge resistor.
The excitation breaker can only be switched off remotely if the generator circuit breaker is
already opened (generator is in no-load condition).
Excitation ON / OFF
The command EXCITATION ON is used to initiate the excitation of the generator. The
excitation feeds the generator rotor with field current so that the generator voltage rapidly
builds up to nominal voltage.
The On command remains without effect as long as a TRIP command is active. If the
excitation breaker is still open when the command EXCITATION ON is given, this will be
closed automatically. Only after the excitation breaker is closed is the excitation enabled
and the field current begins to flow. A typical Start/Stop sequence for generators is shown
in Fig. 7 -20.
The following preconditions must be fulfilled for excitation to start successfully:

The excitation breaker must already be in ON position.

No Off command or Trip signal may be active.

The rotational speed should be greater than 90% of the

nominal rotational speed.

If the converter transformer of the excitation system is

supplied directly from the generator terminals, the auxiliary voltage for build-up of
excitation must be present.
The command EXCITATION OFF switches off the excitation of the generator immediately.
The converter in the excitation system is thereby switched to AC converter operation
(feedback of the field energy) and the discharge resistor is switched parallel to the rotor
winding, so that the generator discharges quickly via the converter and the discharge
resistor. Parallel with the command EXCITATION OFF, the excitation breaker is also
opened. After 60 s, the firing pulses to the converter are blocked so that this is completely
blocked and switched off.
The excitation can only be switched off remotely if the generator circuit breaker is already
opened (generator is in no-load condition).

Document number

ABB Industrie AG

3BHS114940/E80

Lang.

en

Rev. ind.

Sheet

22

Fig. 7-20

Sequence for excitation ON / OFF

Document number

ABB Industrie AG

3BHS114940/E80

Lang.

en

Rev. ind.

Sheet

23

Superimposed
regulation

MANUAL

Q/cos
Off

Q/cos
On

Exc.
Off

Exc.
On

FCB Off

FCB On

No fault
no alarm

ON
OFF

ON
OFF

ON
OFF

ON
OFF

ON
OFF

Perm. reset to 90% Ifo

*) Remote operation: Enable via external locking functions

Higher/lower

Reference
value change

ON / OFF

Superimposed
Regulation

ON / OFF

Machine
breaker

ON / OFF

Excitation

Enable
excitation *)

Remote Local
control control

Reset to 100%

r.p.m.

By operating
personnel

Load operation (on network)

By operating
personnel

Compensation to AUTO-Regulator

Synchron. system

Voltage

On / off cycle for generator application

(Standard application without additional application program, no fault or alarm present)

Perm. reset to 90% Ifo

Reset to 100%

After the excitation is switched on, the generator voltage typically builds up as follows

So

fts

ta

rt

100%

Field flashing

Softstart time (Ex. 5s)

Fig. 7-21

Excitation process with soft start

7.3.2.2 Switchover between channel 1 channel 2

This excitation system features two completely independent regulating and control
channels (channel 1 and channel 2). The two channels are completely equivalent, so that
channel 1 or channel 2 can be freely selected as the active channel. The remaining standby channel (inactive channel) is always automatically matched to the active channel.

Channel I
COB / MUB

AVR

AUTO

HAND

FCR

CH l

Channel Il

CH lI
COB / MUB

AVR

AUTO

HAND

FCR
Fig. 7-22

Dual channel system with voltage regulator and current regulator

Basically, a channel change can be carried out at any time, except in the following
situations:

If a fault is detected in the active channel, an emergency

switchover to the second channel takes place automatically. It is then not possible to

Document number

ABB Industrie AG

3BHS114940/E80

Lang.

en

Rev. ind.

Sheet

24

switch back to the defective channel until the fault in the now inactive channel has been
rectified.

A manual switchover from the active to the inactive channel

is not possible if the inactive channel is defective.
In the event of a channel fault, a dynamic disturbance in the generator voltage can also
occur simultaneously. However, the inactive channel (to which switchover takes place
automatically at this instant) should not follow this dynamic disturbance in the generator
voltage. In order to prevent this, the inactive channel follows the current generator voltage
with a delay, and relatively slowly.
This relatively slow follow-up behaviour of the inactive channel must be taken into account
in a manual switchover from the active to the inactive channel in that, immediately
following a change in the generator voltage, the switchover is delayed for a short time. In
this way, a surge-free switchover is achieved in every case.
7.3.2.3 Switchover between AUTO / MANUAL mode
The excitation system features an automatic regulator (AUTO mode) and a manual
regulator (MANUAL mode) in each channel. In AUTO mode, the generator voltage is
regulated so that as constant a voltage as possible is produced at the generator terminals.
In MANUAL mode, on the other hand, the generator excitation (field current) is kept
constant. With a fluctuating generator load, in MANUAL mode the generator excitation
(field current setpoint) must be adjusted manually so that the generator voltage remains
constant.
Basically, it is possible to switch between operating modes at any time, because the
inactive regulator always automatically follows the active regulator. Special note should be
made of the following:

If a fault is detected in AUTO mode ( emergency

switchover to MANUAL mode), it is not possible to switch back to AUTO mode until the
fault has been rectified.

The switchover from AUTO- to MANUAL mode is prevented

if there is a fault in MANUAL mode.

The generator can operate in AUTO mode within extreme but

permitted operating ranges which already lie outside of the permitted (and set)
operating ranges for MANUAL mode. In these cases, the MANUAL regulator can no
longer follow the AUTO regulator. The feedback indication AUTO/MANUAL READY
allows the follow-up by the MANUAL regulator to be checked.
In the event of an automatic switchover to MANUAL mode due to a fault, switchover to the
operating condition prior to the fault should take place. For this purpose, the follow-up
control of the manual regulator reacts with a delay and relatively slowly to changes in the
excitation current.
This relatively slow follow-up behaviour of the manual regulator must be taken into
account in a manual switchover from AUTO MANUAL in that, immediately following a
change in the excitation current, the switchover is delayed for a short time (wait for
message: AUTO/MANUAL READY). In this way, a surge-free switchover is achieved in
every case.

Document number

ABB Industrie AG

3BHS114940/E80

Lang.

en

Rev. ind.

Sheet

25

Note

The MANUAL mode is designed as a special operation

regulator (back-up regulator) and only functions as a field
current regulator (no regulation of the generator voltage). In
manual mode it is necessary that the excitation of the
generator is expertly monitored by the operating personnel.
As long as the generator current and voltage transformer
signals are present, also in MANUAL mode an
underexcitation limiter prevents a dangerous underexcitation
of the machine which, in extreme cases, could lead to
slipping. In addition, in no-load operation with reduced
rotational speed, a V/Hz-limiter reduces the excitation and so
prevents oversaturation of the machine and the connected
transformers. The operating variables such as generator
voltage, generator current and reactive power must be
monitored by the operating personnel and if necessary
adjusted by changing the field current setpoint.

7.3.2.4 Switchover between AUTO / MANUAL mode

The excitation system features an automatic regulator (AUTO mode) and a manual
regulator (MANUAL mode). In AUTO mode, the generator voltage is regulated so that as
constant a voltage as possible is produced at the generator terminals. In MANUAL mode,
on the other hand, the generator excitation (field current) is kept constant. In MANUAL
mode, with a fluctuating generator load, the generator excitation (field current setpoint)
must be adjusted manually so that the generator voltage remains constant.
COB / MUB

AVR

AUTO

HAND

FCR

Fig. 7-23

Single-channel system with voltage and current regulator

Basically, it is possible to switch between operating modes at any time, because the
inactive regulator always automatically follows the active regulator. Special note should be
made of the following:

If a fault is detected in AUTO mode ( emergency

switchover to MANUAL mode), it is not possible to switch back to AUTO mode until the
fault has been rectified.

The switchover from AUTO- to MANUAL mode is prevented

if there is a fault in MANUAL mode.

The generator can operate in AUTO mode within extreme but

permitted operating ranges which already lie outside of the permitted (and set)
operating ranges for MANUAL mode. In these cases, the MANUAL regulator can no

Document number

ABB Industrie AG

3BHS114940/E80

Lang.

en

Rev. ind.

Sheet

26

longer follow the AUTO regulator. The feedback indication AUTO/MANUAL READY
allows the follow-up by the MANUAL regulator to be checked.
In the event of an automatic switchover to MANUAL mode due to a fault, switchover to the
operating condition prior to the fault should take place. For this purpose, the follow-up
control of the manual regulator reacts with a delay and relatively slowly to changes in the
excitation current.
This relatively slow follow-up behaviour of the manual regulator must be taken into
account in a manual switchover from AUTO MANUAL in that, immediately following a
change in the excitation current, the switchover is delayed for a short time (wait for
message: AUTO/MANUAL READY). In this way, a surge-free switchover is achieved in
every case.
Note

The MANUAL mode is designed as a special operation regulator

(back-up regulator) and only functions as a field current regulator (no
regulation of the generator voltage). In manual mode it is necessary
that the excitation of the generator is expertly monitored by the
operating personnel.
As long as the generator current and voltage transformer signals are
present, in MANUAL mode too an underexcitation limiter prevents a
dangerous underexcitation of the machine which, in extreme cases,
could lead to slipping. In addition, in no-load operation with reduced
rotational speed, a V/Hz-limiter reduces the excitation and so prevents
oversaturation of the machine and the connected transformers. The
operating variables such as generator voltage, generator current and
reactive power must be monitored by the operating personnel and if
necessary adjusted by changing the field current setpoint.

7.3.2.5 Switchover to the emergency channel

In addition to the two main channels, the excitation system features two additional
autonomous emergency channels.
Channel I
COB / MUB

AVR

AUTO

HAND

FCR
FCR

CH l
CH lI

Emergency
Channel I

EGC

Channel Il
COB / MUB

AVR

AUTO

HAND

FCR
FCR
EGC

Fig. 7-24

Emergency
Channel II

Main channel with emergency channel in a dual-channel system

Document number

ABB Industrie AG

3BHS114940/E80

Lang.

en

Rev. ind.

Sheet

27

The emergency channel, like the manual mode of the main channel, is equipped with a
field current regulator. In addition to the field current regulator, the emergency channel is
equipped with overvoltage protection and a gate control which is independent of the main
channel. The built-in overvoltage protection acts redundantly to the protective function
built into the main channel. The operative effect of the field current regulator is identical to
that of the field current regulator in the main channel, i.e. the emergency channel only
regulates the field current and not the generator voltage.
The field current regulator of the emergency channel automatically follows up the leading
main channel so that, in the event of a fault in the main channel, a jump-free switchover
can take place automatically.
Manual switchover from the main channel to the emergency channel is only to be carried
out by authorised specialist personnel. Switching back to the main channel can take place
following tuning of the two regulators.

7.3.2.6 Switchover to the emergency channel

In addition to the main channel, the excitation system features an autonomous emergency
channel.

Main channel
COB / MUB

AVR

AUTO

MAN

FCR
FCR
EGC

Ermergency Channel
Fig. 7-25

Main channel with emergency channel

The emergency channel, like the manual mode of the main channel, is equipped with a
field current regulator. In addition to the field current regulator, the emergency channel is
equipped with overvoltage protection and a gate control which is independent of the main
channel. The built-in overvoltage protection acts redundantly to the protective function
built into the main channel. The operative effect of the field current regulator is identical to
that of the field current regulator in the main channel, i.e. the emergency channel only
regulates the field current and not the generator voltage.
The field current regulator of the emergency channel automatically follows up the leading
main channel so that, in the event of a fault in the main channel, a jump-free switchover
can take place automatically.
Manual switchover from the main channel to the emergency channel can only be carried
out using the service panel or PC tool and is only to be carried out by authorised specialist
personnel. Switching back to the main channel can take place following tuning of the two
regulators.

Document number

ABB Industrie AG

3BHS114940/E80

Lang.

en

Rev. ind.

Sheet

28

7.3.2.7 Reactive power regulator / power factor regulator ON / OFF

The reactive power regulator (Q) / power factor regulator (cosPhi) can be switched on if
the AUTO mode is selected and the generator is connected to the network. The reactive
power regulator / power factor regulator is superordinated to the voltage regulator and
reacts only slowly to changes in the operating condition. Short-term network faults do not
therefore influence this superordinated regulator and are absorbed by the voltage
regulator. All limiters of the AUTO mode are enabled as before and if necessary dominate
the voltage regulator including the superordinated regulator.

Setpoint

raise

lower

Fig. 7-26

Voltage Regulator
raise
Q/cos
Regulator

lower

Setpoint

Superimposed Regulator

AVR

Q-/CosPhi-regulator

The reactive power regulator / power factor regulator features its own setpoint setting
(setpoint integrator). When the superordinated regulator is switched off, this setpoint
setting always follows the actual value (current reactive power Q / current power factor
cosPhi). This means that the transition from voltage regulator to superordinated regulator
has no immediate effect on the operating point of the generator. Only when the setpoint
(setpoint setting of the superordinated regulator) is later adjusted by means of the
HIGHER-/LOWER commands (see 7.3.2.8), does the reactive power / power factor also
change.

7.3.2.8 Higher / Lower (/) commands with feedback indications MIN / MAX
The / commands from the control room control the setpoints of both the operating
modes AUTO and MANUAL / AUTO, MANUAL and the superordinated regulator. A
setpoint is only adjusted by these commands if its operating mode is activated.
a)

In AUTO mode

In AUTO mode, the setpoint of the generator voltage is adjusted by means of the /
commands. In no-load operation, changing this setpoint adjusts the generator voltage, in
operation under load this adjusts the reactive power. If the operating limits of rotor and/or
generator stator have been exhausted, corresponding limiting regulators intervene and
prevent the effect of the / commands in the direction of limitation.
If the setpoint for the generator voltage reaches its minimum or maximum setting value,
the message "Active regulator MIN-POS / MAX-POS" appears. If the - and commands
are given together, no adjustment of the setpoint takes place. When the excitation is
switched on, the setpoint for the generator voltage is automatically set to its nominal
value.

Document number

ABB Industrie AG

3BHS114940/E80

Lang.

en

Rev. ind.

Sheet

29

b)

In MANUAL mode

In MANUAL mode, the setpoint of the field current is adjusted by means of the /
commands. In no-load operation, this adjustment changes the generator voltage, in
operation under load this adjusts the reactive power. In manual mode, only an
underexcitation limiter (prevents slipping of the generator) and a V/Hz limiter (prevents
magnetic saturation) are available. The / commands are not always prevented by a
limiter as in AUTO mode. Care must therefore be taken to ensure that the operating limits
of rotor and generator (according to power diagram) are never exceeded.
If the field current setpoint reaches its minimum or maximum setting value, the message
"Active regulator MIN-POS / MAX-POS" appears. If the - and commands are given
together, no adjustment of the setpoint takes place. When the excitation is switched on
and when the generator breaker opens, the setpoint of the field current is automatically
set to the no-load excitation current value (Ifo).
c)

Reactive power regulator / power factor regulator

The slow reaction of this superordinated regulator (see 7.3.2.7) must be taken into
account in adjusting the setpoint, otherwise lagging to an unplanned operating point could
occur. In order to achieve better control over this setpoint adjustment, the reactive power
setpoint / power factor setpoint is displayed in the control room.
If the setpoint of the reactive power regulator / power factor regulator reaches its minimum
or maximum setting value, the message "Active regulator MIN-POS / MAX-POS" appears.
c)

Reactive power regulator / power factor regulator

The slow reaction of this superordinated regulator must be taken into account in adjusting
the setpoint, otherwise lagging to an unplanned operating point could occur. In order to
achieve better control over this setpoint adjustment, the setpoint integrator of this
regulator is therefore integrated in the control system in the control room. The output of
the setpoint integrator supplies the remote setpoint (e.g. 4...20 mA) directly to the
excitation system as setpoint for the reactive power regulator / power factor regulator.
If the remote setpoint is outside of the limit range, it is limited. The message "Active
regulator MIN-POS / MAX-POS" is displayed if the external setpoint exceeds the internal
limit range.

Document number

ABB Industrie AG

3BHS114940/E80

Lang.

en

Rev. ind.

Sheet

30

+ Q /C O S P H I R E F E R E N C E V A L U E
A Ix H IG H V A L U E

20 m A
H L REF

REM O TE REFERENCE VALU E

INTERNAL REFERENCE VALUE

REMOTE REFERENCE VALUE

R E F E R E N C E M A X A C T IV E

R E F E R E N C E V A L U E M IN A C T IV E

4 m A

LL REF
A L A R M A Ix F A IL

0 m A

A Ix L IV E Z E R O
A Ix L O W V A L U E

-Q /C O S P H I R E F E R E N C E V A L U E

Fig. 7-26

Q-/CosPhi-setpoint

7.3.2.9 Power system stabilisation ON / OFF (if featured)

Low-frequency oscillations of the generator magnet wheel and / or the network frequency
can be damped by means of the power system stabilisation (PSS).
Manual switching-on of the PSS is enabled as soon as the generators active power
reaches a certain settable value and the generator voltage lies within a settable range
(e.g. 90-110% UGN). The power system stabilisation does not require any settings which
have to be carried out by the operating personnel.
The PSS can be switched off manually at any time and is switched off automatically if the
generator is outside of the set values for active power and voltage or is no longer
connected in parallel with the network.

7.3.2.10

Switching off due to a fault (TRIP command)

In the event of a fault in the installation (e.g. in the generator protection), the excitation is
automatically switched off and the excitation breaker opened.
Further procedure:
After the excitation has been switched off through a fault, the alarms on the fault display of
the local control panel must be read off. The fault is to be rectified by authorised
personnel. Further advice on troubleshooting is contained in section 8 "Maintenance and
Troubleshooting . Once the fault has been rectified, the alarms can be reset using the
"Reset key. After the alarms have been successfully reset, the excitation can be switched
on again.

Document number

ABB Industrie AG

3BHS114940/E80

Lang.

en

Rev. ind.

Sheet

31

7.3.2.11

Reset
If the message "Excitation System Alarm" is displayed in the control room, the fault text
must be read from the local control panel and noted before resetting.
A fault which is indicated is reset using the remote reset. If the alarm message is not
cancelled after resetting, it must be assumed that the cause of the fault has not been
rectified. The reset key should not be pressed several times in succession, as each keypress is entered in the fault logger of the UNITROL F device. Pressing the key too often
fills up the fault logger and deletes the actual fault entries.

7.3.3

Analogue displays
Usually, only the excitation current signal is transmitted from the excitation cabinet to the
control room. The other displays necessary for the operation of the machine, such as
generator voltage, generator current, active and reactive power, are to be made available
from the system.

7.3.4

Status and alarm messages

In addition to the above feedback indications, the following status and alarm messages
are displayed in the control room:
EXCITATION BREAKER ON
EXCITATION BREAKER OFF
LOCAL CONTROL
OVEREXCITATION LIMITER ACTIVE
UNDEREXCITATION LIMITER ACTIVE
ALARM MESSAGE
READY FOR CHANNELTRANSFER

7.3.4.1 EXCITATION BREAKER ON / OFF

These messages show whether the excitation breaker is switched ON or OFF.
7.3.4.2 LOCAL CONTROL
This status message means: the system cannot be operated by REMOTE control.
Remedy:
Switch over to REMOTE on local control panel on the excitation cabinet.
7.3.4.3 UNDER/OVEREXCITATION LIMITER ACTIVE
An overexcitation limiter which reduces the excitation current or an underexcitation limiter
which increases the excitation current is now active. The generator voltage regulator or
the switched-on superordinated regulator is no longer effective. Operation with continuous
limitation is permissible, but generally impairs the dynamic behaviour of the excitation
system under changes in load.
Remedy:
If possible, deactivate limiter by adjusting the setpoint.

Document number

ABB Industrie AG

3BHS114940/E80

Lang.

en

Rev. ind.

Sheet

32

7.3.4.4 ALARM MESSAGE

The alarm message is a collective message for all faults in the excitation system. Detailed
fault displays can be viewed on the local control panel of the excitation system.
If a fault occurs during operation, these fault messages must be noted and the service
personnel notified. The system can generally continue to be operated with a fault; in the
event of serious faults, automatic shutdown takes place. However, the system should not
be started up after a shutdown until all causes of faults have been rectified and the alarm
message has disappeared.
7.3.4.5 READY FOR CHANNEL SELECTION
A smooth switchover between channel 1 and channel 2 / AUTO- and MANUAL mode is
only guaranteed if the message READY FOR CHANNEL TRANSFER appears.

7.3.4.6 READY FOR CHANNEL SELECTION

A smooth switchover between AUTO- and MANUAL mode is only guaranteed if the
message READY FOR CHANNEL TRANSFER appears.

7.3.4.7 Field bus control

Any field bus control via a serial communications medium which might be installed is dealt
with in a separate manual.

Document number

ABB Industrie AG

3BHS114940/E80

Lang.

en

Rev. ind.

Sheet

33

7.4

Local control

8-lines display

Keys for panel

operation
Keys for local
operation of
excitation system

Fig. 7-27

Local control panel

The local control panel on the regulator cabinet contains 16 keys with LED's for the
system-specific displays and controls, 10 control keys for the operating mode and internal
functions and an LCD display with 8 lines, each with 40 characters.
The basic control of the excitation system can be carried out using the 16 keys with the
status messages. Alarm messages and analogue values can be displayed on the LCD.

7.4.1

Analogue value display

A maximum of 64 pre-defined analogue values can be selected and displayed with the
control panel. At the same time, either 8 analogue values in numerical form or 4 analogue
values in 0-120% bar form can be displayed.
Analogue signals can be displayed as follows on the LCD display on the control panel:
Numerical display
When the key is pressed, 8 analogue signals appear with channel number, name of the
signal, value and unit, and the yellow LED is lit. Further analogue signals can be
displayed using the Scroll key.
Bar display
When the key is pressed, the first 4 analogue signals appear with channel number, name
of the signal, value and unit, and with the associated bar. At the same time, the yellow
LED is lit. Further analogue signals can be displayed using the Scroll key.

Document number

ABB Industrie AG

3BHS114940/E80

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en

Rev. ind.

Sheet

34

The 8 predefined analogue values which are displayed after initialisation are listed below:
Channel no.
Value 1
Value 2
Value 3
Value 4
Value 5
Value 6
Value 7
Value 8

7.4.2

Value
Generator voltage
Generator current
Active power
Reactive power
Field current
Setpoint for AUTOMATIC
CHANNEL
Setpoint for MANUAL CHANNEL
Actual value for generator voltage

Unit
kV
kA
MW
Mvar
A-dc
kV
A-dc
%

Fault display
There are various alarm and trip signals which describe faults or malfunctions within the
excitation system. These fault messages can be grouped into alarms, protective
switchover and tripping of excitation.
On the first fault message, the control panel automatically switches to fault message with
display of the corresponding fault. The first fault which occurs (first fault) appears in the
first line, the subsequent faults in the following lines. In addition, the LED on the RESET
key flashes when the first fault is reported.
Fault messages
When the key is pressed, up to 8 fault messages appear, if faults are present (red LED is
lit). The 1st fault always appears on the first line and the subsequent faults appear below
this in ascending order of fault numbers. Further subsequent faults can be displayed
using the Scroll key.
The following possible means of cancelling the faults are available:
Cancelling the fault messages:
All alarms are stored in the control panel. In addition, special alarms are also stored in
the processor; these can only be reset by holding down the Reset key for a longer
period.
RESET pressed briefly:
This cancels the fault display of the alarms stored in the control panel. If no alarms are
active, the LED on the key goes out. If alarms stored in the processor are active, the LED
changes from flashing to being lit continuously when the reset key is pressed briefly. If a
new fault occurs, the alarm LED starts to flash again.
RESET pressed for longer than 1 second:
This resets both the alarms stored in the control panel and the alarms stored in the
processor. If no alarms are active, the LED on the key goes out. If alarms are still active,
the LED changes from flashing to being lit continuously when the reset key is pressed for
longer than 1 second. If a new fault occurs, the alarm LED starts to flash again.

Document number

ABB Industrie AG

3BHS114940/E80

Lang.

en

Rev. ind.

Sheet

35

Caution

7.4.3

All observations which could be of importance in connection with a fault

(operating status of the power station, first fault display, further fault
messages, LEDs on devices etc.) must be noted before the RESET key
is pressed or repair work can begin. Repair work may only be carried out
by specially trained personnel.

Controlling the display

Cursor key

By pressing the Cursor key, one of the line positions 1...8 or 1..4 on the display can be
selected. The current line is highlighted with the channel number shown in reverse
contrast. When the last line is reached, it jumps back to the first line. The Cursor key is
only active in the (numerical or bar display) analogue signal display.
Scroll key
When the Scroll key is pressed in the (numerical or bar display) analogue signal
display, the channel number (in reverse contrast) and its analogue value
changes.
When pressed in the fault message, all fault messages in lines 2...8 move up or
down by one position. The first line showing the first fault always remains in
place.
Page key
When the Page key is pressed, the channel numbers change by 10 positions or
the fault numbers by 6 positions. Otherwise functions like the Scroll key.

7.4.4

Printer key
When the Printer key is pressed, the analogue values in lines 1...8 are sent via the RS232 serial interface to the printer (if connected). If fault messages are active, these are
also sent. The yellow LED is only lit if data are being sent and the printer is ready to
receive these. If the LED is flashing, the printer buffer is temporarily full.
In order to increase the service life of the LCD display, the display and background
illumination are switched off after 60 minutes have elapsed without a key being pressed.
The panel display is switched on again If one of the 10 function keys is pressed or if a
fault message occurs.

Document number

ABB Industrie AG

3BHS114940/E80

Lang.

en

Rev. ind.

Sheet

36

7.4.5

Command keys
The control panel is equipped with a keypad. These keys allow the excitation system to be
controlled locally in the same way as is possible remotely, from the control room. The
commands are listed in the following table:
Command
Field breaker ON
Field breaker OFF
Excitation
ON
Excitation
OFF
Channel 1
ON
Channel 2
ON
Mode auto
Mode manual
Setpoint of active regulator
Setpoint of active regulator
Reactive power regulator
Reactive power regulator
Control
local
Control
remote
Lamp test
Enable

higher
lower
ON
OFF

Local

Feedback indication

max pos
min pos

The shaded areas of the local commands mean that these are only effective if the
ENABLE key on the local control unit is pressed simultaneously.

7.4.6

Service Panel
In addition to the local control panel, a local service panel is also available. However, this
is not used for local control of the excitation system. It simply assists the authorised
service personnel in rectifying faults. Further information on the use of the service panel
can be found in section 3.

Document number

ABB Industrie AG

3BHS114940/E80

Lang.

en

Rev. ind.

Sheet

37

7.5

Operation of the system

Prerequisites for safe operation:
The following prerequisites must be fulfilled for safe operation:

7.5.1

First commissioning successfully completed.

maintenance plan.

Periodical maintenance carried out in accordance with

Any faults which have occurred have been properly rectified.

tested.

Any altered settings (parameters) have been checked and

Checks before switching on

Before switching on, it must be ensured that all necessary supply voltages are present
and that safe start-up is possible. The following checks must be carried out:

No maintenance work on the system is in progress.

properly locked.

Control and power cabinets are ready for operation and

Generator output free, input and output cables to excitation

transformer and to excitation cabinet are free (temporary earthing removed).

supply present.

Battery supply for excitation breaker control and regulator

No alarm or fault messages active.

Excitation switched to REMOTE.

Excitation switched to AUTO mode.

Generator at nominal rotational speed (check rotational

speed on display instrument).

Document number

ABB Industrie AG

3BHS114940/E80

Lang.

en

Rev. ind.

Sheet

38

7.5.2

Switch-on sequence
Action

Display

Control

1 Field breaker ON

ON lamp is lit

Field breaker is switched on

2 Excitation ON

ON lamp is lit

Voltage builds up in 5 - 20
seconds

GENERATOR RUNS WITHOUT LOAD

3 The excitation system is ready
for operation under load.
The generator voltage can be
adjusted to the network voltage
using the / keys.

Generator voltage is adjusted

to setpoint.

4 When network- and generator

voltage are synchronous, close
generator circuit breaker.

Generators reactive power

remains close to zero.

GENERATOR IS OPERATING UNDER LOAD

5 Set desired reactive power
within the operating limits of the
generator using the / keys.

Generator voltage is regulated,

the generator produces
reactive power.

Document number

ABB Industrie AG

3BHS114940/E80

Lang.

en

Rev. ind.

Sheet

39

Fig. 7-28

On/Off switching cycle

Document number

ABB Industrie AG

3BHS114940/E80

Lang.

en

Rev. ind.

Sheet

40

Superimposed
regulation

MANUAL

Q/cos
Off

Q/cos
On

Exc.
Off

Exc.
On

FCB Off

FCB On

No fault
no alarm

ON
OFF

ON
OFF

ON
OFF

ON
OFF

ON
OFF

Perm. reset to 90% Ifo

*) Remote operation: Enable via external locking functions

Higher/lower

Reference
value change

ON / OFF

Superimposed
Regulation

ON / OFF

Machine
breaker

ON / OFF

Excitation

Enable
excitation *)

Remote Local
control control

Reset to 100%

r.p.m.

By operating
personnel

Load operation (on network)

By operating
personnel

Compensation to AUTO-Regulator

Synchron. system

Voltage

On / off cycle for generator application

(Standard application without additional application program, no fault or alarm present)

Perm. reset to 90% Ifo

Reset to 100%

7.5.3

Checks during operation

The following periodical checks should be carried out during operation:
a)

In the control room:

No limiter active.

Setpoints of the active regulator are not at limit setting.

Channels are balanced, ready for switchover.

stable.

Excitation current, generator voltage and reactive power are

The correct function of the field current regulator for MANUAL mode is continually
checked by means of extensive monitoring devices. Nonetheless, it is recommended that,
periodically, e.g. following start-up, this regulator be switched briefly in order to test that it
is functioning correctly.
The correct function of the inactive channel is continually checked by means of extensive
monitoring devices. Nonetheless, it is recommended that, periodically, e.g. following startup, this regulator be switched briefly in order to test that it is functioning correctly.
b)

7.5.4

On the excitation cabinets:

No active alarms.

No unusual noises.

Shut-down sequence
Action
6 Isolate the generator from the
network by:
- reducing the reactive power
(through generator voltage
setpoint).
reducing the active power
(via turbine regulator)
Open generator circuit breaker
7 Excitation OFF and
Field breaker OFF

Display

Control

OFF lamp lights

up

Generator voltage is reduced

to 0 within a few seconds.

&
8

7.5.5

Emergency-OFF
Faults in a number of peripheral devices in certain cases can lead to a situation that
neither REMOTE nor LOCAL control of the excitation system is possible. However, it must
still be possible to switch off the excitation in an emergency. An emergency shutdown can
be carried out using the local Emergency-Off pushbutton on the excitation cabinet //
"External Trip" input on terminal X3 :19-20 / 22-23 (see also Hardware schematic, sheet
901).
Document number

ABB Industrie AG

3BHS114940/E80

Lang.

en

Rev. ind.

Sheet

41

An emergency shutdown switches off the generator and the excitation. However, the
supply voltages for the excitation system are not switched off.
The operator must know how to carry out the emergency shutdown.
Caution

With the generator circuit breaker closed, the excitation system cannot be
switched off (by remote control) (the generator circuit breaker must be
opened beforehand).
The Emergency-OFF switch should only be used if it is impossible to
switch off using the normal Off command.

Document number

ABB Industrie AG

3BHS114940/E80

Lang.

en

Rev. ind.

Sheet

42