Synchronising Panels
Generator synchronisation is the process of matching parameters such as voltage, frequency, phase angle, phase sequence and alternator waveform or other source with a healthy or running power system. Synchronising panels are designed for commercial and industrial settings. Their main function is to supply a large amount of power from multiple engine generators. We can provide synchronisation panels up to 1200 amp.
Explain generator synchronisation
Generator syncrhronisation is the process of matching electrical parameters such as voltage, frequency, phase angle, phase sequence, and waveform of multiple power sources, be it a feed from a power utility company or another generator power system.
Synchronisation is completed before the generator is reconnected to the power system. Once a generator is synchronised with the parameters of another generator, alternator, or bus bar, the system can run smoothly.
Generator synchronisation to any power system must be conducted precisely to prevent damage to the unit, as well as the power system itself.
When synchronising a generator to a power system, the frequency and voltage of the generator must closely match. The rotor angle and the instantaneous power system phase angle must be close prior to closing the generator breaker and connecting the isolated generator to a power system.
In most modern instances, the sychronisation process is automated via an automatic synchroniser and motorised circuit breakers with manual control capabilities that can be used in backup situations.
Why is generator synchronisation needed?
A generator cannot deliver power to an electrical power system unless all electrical parameters match those of the network exactly.
The need for sychronisation arises when two or more generators work together to supply the power to a single load. Since electrical loads do not remain constant, the two or more generators supplying the power need to be interconnected and operate in parallel to handle larger loads. Using a series of small units instead of a single generator is known as a parallel operation. Sychronisation is critical for parallel operation.
Benefits of generator synchronisation
Reliability:
With multiple alternators, parallel operation is much more reliable than single-unit generators. In a single-unit system, the whole setup will shut
down if a single generator fails. In parallel systems, one generator can fail, and the other units will keep the system active.
Maintenance: If a unit needs maintenance, the other systems can remain running to prevent your entire operation from stopping.
Load variation: Load requirements may vary throughout the day. A parallel system can accommodate higher and lower loads with more or fewer active systems.
Fuel eficiency: Generators run at the highest efficiency when they operate at their load rating. By adding or subtracting generators seemlessly, the system can always remain efficient.
Add or subtract power: Bigger operations require more power. With more generators, systems have more power for increased capacity.
Electrical requirements to be met
Phase sequence: The three phases of the alternators in your system must have the same phase sequence as the phases of your electric grid or bus bar.
Voltage magnitude: Voltage magnitude can cause significant disruptions if the alternators and bus bar are not parallel. When alternator voltage is higher than
the bus bar, you'll create a high reactive power in your grid that could pose safety concerns. If the electrical voltage is lower, the generator will absorb high
reactive power from the bus bar and potentially fail.
Frequency: When frequencies are unequal, they create an unstable flow of energy. This instability can lead to damaged equipment.
Phase angle: The phase angle of the bus bar and generator must be zero.
