Generator used in a power station

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the types of generators used in power stations, specifically focusing on synchronous and asynchronous generators, as well as related concepts such as alternators and dynamos. Participants explore the differences between these types of generators and their applications in power systems.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant inquires about the types of generators used in power stations, specifically asking for differences between asynchronous generators, synchronous generators, alternators, and dynamos.
  • Another participant asserts that synchronous generators are typically used in power stations, questioning if the original inquiry is related to homework.
  • A participant clarifies that their question is related to preparing for a graduate scheme interview, not homework.
  • One participant provides a brief overview of asynchronous and synchronous generators, noting that asynchronous generators are induction motors with variable speed and frequency, while synchronous generators maintain constant speed and frequency regardless of load.
  • Another participant questions whether a synchronous machine must be spun past its synchronous frequency to generate electricity.
  • A different participant responds that this is not necessary for synchronous generators but is required for asynchronous generators depending on the load.
  • It is noted that both synchronous and asynchronous generators are used in power stations, with asynchronous generators typically being smaller and requiring a network capable of supplying extra reactive power.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the operational characteristics of synchronous and asynchronous generators, particularly regarding the need for synchronous machines to exceed synchronous frequency for electricity generation. There is no consensus on the specifics of generator types and their applications.

Contextual Notes

Some claims about the operational characteristics of generators depend on specific definitions and contexts, which are not fully resolved in the discussion. The efficiency and performance of different types of generators may vary based on application and load conditions.

davidcowling
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What sort of generator is used in a power station? (synchronous, asynchronous)... And what is the difference between.

- Asynchronous Generator
- Synchronous Generator
- Alternator
- Dynamo

Thanks!
 
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Synchronous Generator. Is this homework?
 
No its not. I am currently applying for a place on a graduate scheme and looking at some of the possible questions they will be asking.

Thanks for your help
 
You got through an undergrad degree without learning this? My program required electro-mechanical studies.

Anyway, my probably too short answer:

Asynchronous - Induction motors basically. Speed varies with load when used as a motor. Frequency varies with load when used as a generator.

Synchronous - Constant speed motor or constant frequency generator regardless of load. This is why it's used in power systems. Too much load causes instant stall. It also has interesting impedance properties that can be used to tune power grids. Cannot self-start. Needs a kick-start motor.

Alternator - A catch-all term for anything that generates AC power. If there is some definition that is more formal then I don't know it.

dynamo - DC motor/generator. Unlike AC motors, the dynamo's speed can be electrically controlled over a wide range. AC motors tend to have target speed ranges (called a speed-torque curve) and they'll stall outside of their designed operating conditions. Dynamo's are good for variable speed applications. Generally less efficient than AC motors at high throughput but more efficient at very small powers.
 
Am i right in thinking that a synchronous machine used in a power station has to be spun past its synchronous frequency to generate electricity?
 
No, but that's what you would have to do for an asynchronous generator depending on the load.
 
Both synchronous and async generators are used in power stations. Async tend to be smaller and must be in a network capable of supplying the extra reactive power. The largest async one I have worked on is 2MW, small.
 

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