Connecting a synchronous generator to the grid

In summary, you will need two circuit breakers and a cable of the correct size to connect the generator to the grid.
  • #1
braneCRO
2
0
Hi for a project i need to connect a synchronous generator to the electrical grid, i need to use 2 curcuit breakers and . How to determine the cross section of the cables required and how to connect them to the 2 curcuit breakers.
 
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  • #2
braneCRO said:
Hi for a project i need to connect a synchronous generator to the electrical grid, i need to use 2 curcuit breakers and . How to determine the cross section of the cables required and how to connect them to the 2 curcuit breakers.

Welcome to the PF.

What kind of project is this? Who is the electrical utility in your area? Any connection to the grid will be coordinated by that utility, and they have a number of rules that you need to abide by. They will inspect your installation before giving you the go-ahead to make the first connection.
 
  • #3
It’s a college project, I am connecting the generator to the college network (50 Hz, 3 phases), the generator is 400 V, 640 A and 440 kVA. My assignment is to connect it to the local grid using 2 circuit breakers (one for the automatic synchronization device and the other for the main connection to the bus. I don t know how to determine the cable diameter…
 
  • #4
Did the generator not come with electrical cables attached? It's a generator, so you have something driving it--a large diesel engine, or a powerful 3-phase motor? The generator is 400 volts, 3 phase. Is the college power also 400 volts? I reckon you should be able to use the same thickness conductors as are used for the motor, if you can get hold of more of them.

I've forgotten almost all my motor theory. But I think it's probably true that just because the generator is rated for 640 amps, it does not follow that you will necessarily operate it so that it does supply that amount of current.

You say two circuit breakers. Do you mean two sets of triple circuit breakers?
 
  • #5
The size of a cable depends on the maximum current that is going to pass through it there should be copies of the relevant standards in your college library. The max current that passes through the cables will depend on the protection settings on your breakers, do not be fooled into thinking that the max current is limited by what's on the data plate if you get a high leading or lagging current you can turn a generator into a pool of mo;ten copper very quickly, Go and start researching protection settings.
 

1. What is a synchronous generator?

A synchronous generator is a type of electrical machine that converts mechanical energy into electrical energy. It operates at a constant speed, called synchronous speed, which is dependent on the number of poles in the generator and the frequency of the electrical system it is connected to.

2. How is a synchronous generator connected to the grid?

A synchronous generator is typically connected to the grid through a device called a synchronizer. The synchronizer monitors the voltage and frequency of the generator and ensures that it is in perfect synchronization with the grid before connecting it. Once synchronized, the generator can be connected to the grid through a switch called a breaker.

3. What are the benefits of connecting a synchronous generator to the grid?

Connecting a synchronous generator to the grid allows for the efficient transfer of electrical energy to meet the demand of consumers. It also helps to stabilize the grid by providing reactive power support and frequency regulation. Additionally, it allows for the integration of renewable energy sources such as wind and solar into the grid.

4. What is the importance of synchronizing a generator before connecting it to the grid?

Synchronizing a generator before connecting it to the grid is crucial to ensure that the generator is operating at the same voltage and frequency as the grid. If the generator is not in synchronization, it can cause a sudden surge of power, which can damage both the generator and the grid. Synchronization also helps to maintain the stability of the grid and prevent power outages.

5. Can a synchronous generator be disconnected from the grid?

Yes, a synchronous generator can be disconnected from the grid. This can be done by opening the breaker that connects the generator to the grid. However, it is important to ensure that the generator is first taken offline and that the frequency and voltage are brought back to safe levels before disconnecting it from the grid.

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