Why Use Transorbs Instead of Diodes in a Generator Rotor Circuit?

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SUMMARY

Transorbs are preferred over diodes in the rotor circuit of capacitor-controlled generators due to their ability to limit high voltage spikes generated by commutator or brush noise, enhancing reliability. The voltage rating of the transorb must exceed the rotor voltage to effectively protect the rotor winding insulation. While diodes are the conventional choice, they do not provide the same level of protection against voltage transients. The discussion highlights the need for clarity regarding the type of capacitor-controlled generator being referenced, as various configurations exist.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of transorbs and their application in electrical circuits
  • Knowledge of capacitor-controlled generator configurations
  • Familiarity with voltage spike phenomena in inductive circuits
  • Basic principles of generator operation, including AC and DC generation
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the specifications and applications of transorbs in electrical circuits
  • Learn about different types of capacitor-controlled generators and their operational principles
  • Explore the impact of high voltage spikes on rotor winding insulation
  • Investigate the differences between AC and DC TVS (Transient Voltage Suppressors) and their applications
USEFUL FOR

Electrical engineers, generator technicians, and anyone involved in the design or maintenance of capacitor-controlled generators will benefit from this discussion.

OddBod
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is there some special reason why transorbs would be inserted into the rotor circuit of a capacitor controlled generator, rather than diodes? And since I have no way of determining the value of the existing transorbs, could I simply substitute diodes.
Diodes are the "normally" expected component in this position, with a shunt resistor across them.
 
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Commutator or brush noise interrupts the inductive circuit and generates high voltage spikes that can break down the rotor winding insulation. A transorb will limit the voltage of those noise spikes and so increase reliability. The voltage rating of the transorb should be greater than the rotor voltage.
 
The solution with brushes and commutator is old and requires more maintenance than other methods used today. The brushes generate HVHF spikes, especially after being in longer service, but breakdowns of the winding insulation are/were rare due to such stress
 
Neither of the answers have any relevance to the question in that capacitor controlled generators do not have brushes or commutators
 
OddBod said:
Neither of the answers have any relevance to the question in that capacitor controlled generators do not have brushes or commutators
If only the world was that simple.
“Capacitor controlled generator” is an insufficient description.
I'm sorry but my mind reading is still not fully functional.

Is it an induction generator that uses capacitors to excite and set the output frequency?
Is it a brushless marine generator that has two armatures, normally with diodes between the armatures?
Does it generate AC or DC?
Please give us a link to the type of generator you ask about.
 
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OddBod said:
Neither of the answers have any relevance to the question in that capacitor controlled generators do not have brushes or commutators
Never heard of "capacitor controlled generators"... Do they grow in the woods?
Anyway, if you're just interested in application of DC TVS and AC TVS , the basics are explained here
Have a nice day.
 

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