Voltage Build-Up in a Self-Excited Generator

Let us see how voltage builds up in a self-excited generator.
(i) Shunt generator
Consider a shunt generator. If the generator is run at a constant speed, some e.m.f. will be generated due to residual magnetism in the main poles. This small e.m.f. circulates a field current which in turn produces additional flux to reinforce the original residual flux (provided field winding connections are correct). This process continues and the generator builds up the normal generated voltage following the O.C.C. shown in Fig. (3.4) (i).

The field resistance R_f can be represented by a straight line passing through the origin as shown in Fig. (3.4) (ii). The two curves can be shown on the same diagram as they have the same ordinate [See Fig. 3.4 (iii)]. Since the field circuit is inductive, there is a delay in the increase in current upon closing the field circuit switch The rate at which the current increases depends upon the voltage available for increasing it. Suppose at any instant, the field current is i (= OA) and is increasing at the rate di/dt. Then,

E_{O =} IR_f + L di/dt

R_f = total field circuit resistance

L = inductance of field circuit

R_fand the remainder part BC is available to overcome L di/dt. Since this surplus voltage is available, it is possible for the field current to increase above the value OA. However, at point D, the available voltage is OM and is all absorbed by i R_fdrop. Consequently, the field current cannot increase further and the generator build up stops.

We arrive at a very important conclusion that the voltage build up of the generator is given by the point of intersection of O.C.C. and field resistance line. Thus in Fig. (3.4) (iii), D is point of intersection of the two curves. Hence the generator will build up a voltage OM.
(ii) Series generator
During initial operation, with no current yet flowing, a residual voltage will be generated exactly as in the case of a shunt generator. The residual voltage will cause a current to flow through the whole series circuit when the circuit is
closed. There will then be voltage build up to an equilibrium point exactly analogous to the build up of a shunt generator. The voltage build up graph will be similar to that of shunt generator except that now load current (instead of field current for shunt generator) will be taken along x-axis.

(iii) Compound generator
When a compound generator has its series field flux aiding its shunt field flux, the machine is said to be cumulative compound. When the series field is connected in reverse so that its field flux opposes the shunt field flux, the generator is then differential compound. The easiest way to build up voltage in a compound generator is to start under no load conditions. At no load, only the shunt field is effective. When no-load voltage build up is achieved, the generator is loaded. If under load, the voltage rises, the series field connection is cumulative. If the voltage drops significantly, the connection is differential compound.

Written by John on May 16th, 2009 with 3 comments.
Read more articles on D.C. Generator Characteristics and Direct Current Machines and Electrical Machines.

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