MICROPROCESSOR PROTECTION OF SYNCHRONOUS GENERATORS AT POWER PLANTS

Abstract

The application of microprocessor relay protection devices in electric power engineering, particularly for the protection of synchronous generators at power plants, is examined. These devices are characterized by increased service reliability, small size and weight, low electricity consumption, cost-effectiveness, and stability of power system modes. Synchronous generators impose limitations on power system modes when the designated overload of the synchronous generator may lead to undesirable consequences. This is manifested in operation through increased current and heating factor, increased stator heating and stress due to changes in phase angles, and increased voltage.

To prevent such dangerous modes, it is recommended to use microprocessor-based transverse differential protection. This is used in combination with differential current cutoff, which activates protection during internal short circuits with high currents. In this case, it is possible to implement programmed changes in the polarity of input signals during maintenance, adjustment, and monitoring of current circuit integrity.