How torque is converted into ampere in a generator

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the conversion of torque into electrical current (amperes) in a generator, particularly focusing on the synchronization of the turbine and generator assembly with the grid frequency. Participants explore the underlying physics and equations governing this process, as well as the operational mechanisms involved in maintaining constant speed while adjusting power output.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Conceptual clarification
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant describes how the prime mover produces slightly more power than required to maintain synchronous speed, leading to a conversion of increased torque into amperes without exceeding the synchronous speed.
  • Another participant suggests that Maxwell's equations govern the process, indicating that the magnetic flux is controlled to match input and output power while keeping speed constant.
  • A participant seeks clarification on the specific equations that dictate the conversion of torque to amperes and how the generator determines the need to maintain constant speed while accepting additional torque.
  • Links to external resources are provided, including a Wikipedia article on induction generators and a publication discussing torque estimation in generators.
  • A later reply introduces the Lorentz force as a fundamental concept in understanding the interaction of charge and magnetic fields in the context of generators.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express varying levels of understanding and seek clarification on the mechanisms involved, indicating that the discussion remains unresolved with multiple viewpoints and questions about the underlying physics.

Contextual Notes

Some participants express uncertainty about the specific equations and principles involved in the conversion process, highlighting a need for further exploration of the topic.

Who May Find This Useful

This discussion may be of interest to individuals studying electrical engineering, physics, or those involved in power generation and turbine operations.

RohitRmB
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As i have read on the internet that during synchronization the prime mover connected to the turbine produces a little over than required power to keep the turbine cum generator assembly moving at the synchronous speed that is regulated by the grid frequency (In India its 50Hz). As the generator is synchronized, the speed of the turbine cum generator will remain equal to 3000 RPM (As per frequency of 50Hz). Now if more steam is admitted to the turbine, then the torque produced by the turbine will increase but the speed of the turbine cum generator assembly cannot increase beyond synchronous speed, so that increased torque gets converted into amps.
Now my question is, i am not able to understand the physics behind how this conversion of torque into amps takes place at fundamental level.
So kindly help me in this.:smile:
 
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Power generation is not really my field; however if your background is in physics, then this is all driven by Maxwell's equations. The turbine spins the generator at the specified frequency to match the grid as you state. So to change the power output the magnetic flux is controlled through the control circuits. This is an easy job these days as the computers that control the process quickly adjust the settings such that any change in input power matches the necessary output power while keeping the speed constant. In days before the computer control, operators did this by hand controls and must have been very good at their jobs!
Think of it as riding a bike. When you are on level ground you are required a certain amount of leg energy to keep a constant pedal cadence thus speed; going downhill required much less leg energy to keep the speed constant; while going uphill required much more leg energy to keep the same speed. The fields of the generator are adjusted in a similar way as you adjust your leg muscles to produce more power.
 
Thanks for your reply but I want to know actually which equations govern this conversion and how the generator actually knows that now speed should be constant and further addition of energy from the turbine (torque) is now to be converted to amps?
Sorry but please bear with my childish question.
 

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