AboutAl Dykstra Expertise I have the ability to answer any question regarding the operation and dispatching of an electric power system. This includes questions regarding Fossil Fuel generating stations, Nuclear generating stations, Hydroelectric generating stations and high voltage power system dispatching and operation along with fault detection and circuit protection devices.
Experience I have been employed in Utility operations as a Steam Electric Power Plant Control Operator, a Hydroelectric system Dispatcher and as a Power System Dispatcher for one of the largest private Utilities in the State of California. My experience in this area exceeds 34 years.
Organizations Western Electric Coordinating Council, Operating Committee and Operator Training Sub Committee Member.
Education/Credentials Electric Engineering, The Henry Samueli School of Engineering, UC Irvine
WECC and NERC certified System Operator.
Expert: Al Dykstra Date: 6/17/2008 Subject: generator
Question May be please tell me the theory in starting any generator ?
Answer First, the prime mover (Hydro Turbine, Steam Turbine, Gas Turbine or Diesel Engine) is used to bring the generator rotational speed up to synchronous speed. At some point during the acceleration to synchronous speed, the generator Exciter is used to energize the field windings, creating the magnetic field that the generator coil is rotated through. The rotation of the generator coil through this magnetic field will develop a generator terminal voltage. Once the generator is at synchronous speed, the field voltage can be adjusted to achieve the proper generator terminal voltage and load can then be connected to the generator. If the generator is to be paralleled with an operating power system, it's necessary that the generator terminal voltage be adjusted to match the running voltage of the power system and that the generator speed (frequency) be matched to that running power system, before the generator output circuit breaker is closed to parallel the generator with the running system.
It may seem like a difficult process but is actually quite simple once the basic theory is understood. I have synchronized generators that range anywhere from 1 megawatt up to 800 megawatts, hundreds of times throughout my career and it's always been a very satisfying feeling to start up a unit and synchronize to the power system.
