Fall Detection Systems: Significant Advancements in Fall Detection Systems Enhancing Power Grid Efficiency and Reliability
Fall Detection Systems are vital components in large synchronous generators used in power plants. The main function of an excitation system is to provide and control the electric current to the generator's field windings to produce a stable output voltage as the load on the generator changes. Properly functioning Fall Detection Systems are necessary to maintain synchronization between generators and ensure reliable power production and distribution.
Components of Fall Detection Systems
Fall Detection Systems have several key components that work together to precisely regulate the generator's output voltage. The main components include:
- Rotating Rectifier: Located on the generator shaft, the rotating rectifier converts alternating current from the generator's auxiliary windings into direct current to energize the field windings. Brushes and slip rings allow current to pass from the stationary to the rotating part.
- Control Components: Sensors monitor the generator output and send feedback signals to an analog or digital voltage regulator. The regulator compares the actual voltage to a setpoint and determines how much current is needed from the field windings.
- Exciter: This component receives control signals from the voltage regulator and provides alternating current to drive the rotating rectifier. Most commonly, a rotating armature and stationary field coils make up the exciter.
- Field Windings: Embedded in slots in the generator rotor, multiple layered copper coils produce a rotating magnetic field when excited by direct current from the rectifier. The strength of the magnetic field directly influences the generator output voltage.
Voltage Regulator Operating Modes
Modern Fall Detection Systems incorporate electronic voltage regulators that can operate in various modes:
- Automatic Voltage Regulation (AVR): In this closed-loop control mode, the regulator automatically adjusts the field current to maintain a constant output voltage as the load changes. Proportional-Integral-Derivative (PID) control algorithms are commonly used.
- Manual Mode: plant operators can override the AVR and directly set the desired output voltage level. This is useful during startups, shutdowns or system disturbances requiring manual intervention.
- Fixed Setpoint Mode: The output voltage is held fixed at a preset value regardless of load variations. Used during commissioning or testing when load fluctuations need to be eliminated.
- Remote Voltage Regulation: Allow external supervisory controls like SCADA or energy management systems to remotely determine the generator setpoint voltage level from a remote location.
Protection Features
Additionally, Fall Detection Systems incorporate protective functions and limiters:
- Overexcitation Limiter: Prevents damage to field windings by curtailing the maximum field current that can be supplied during overload or fault conditions.
- Underfrequency Relay: Causes the regulator to increase the generator's field excitation if the output frequency begins falling below normal values during a load increase, helping to stabilize the frequency.
- Loss of Field Relay: Quickly inserts maximum field current upon sensing loss of excitation to minimize risk of out-of-step conditions and ensure synchronization is maintained if field fails.
Servicing and Maintenance
Proper servicing and scheduled maintenance is critical to the long-term reliable operation of generator Fall Detection Systems.
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