Voltage and frequency control for synchronous generator

Abstract

Electricity is an essential part of our daily lives. Power systems around the world are moving towards the integration of small microgrid systems whereby it is possible to generate and provide the energy needs of a small community independently. Due to its small size, data can be easily obtained to optimize power flow and achieve load frequency control. Therefore, the microgrid can be made efficient and stable.

In this project, the parameters used to achieve voltage and frequency control for a 10.8 kW synchronous generator in a microgrid were discussed. The generator receives its mechanical power from an induction motor acting as the prime mover. The output power of the generator can then be used to power up the microgrid loads both as standalone and synchronized with the programmable source. LabVIEW software was used for overall control and data acquisition. Test case studies on the newly commissioned system were conducted and the results were discussed in this report.

As Load Frequency Control (LFC) and Optimal Power Flow (OPF) can only be implemented after synchronization, a comprehensive synchronising circuit was designed and implemented to synchronise the generator to the programmable source to the microgrid. On the software aspects, a LabVIEW Graphical User Interface (GUI) was designed to control the induction motor and acquire data from the microgrid smart meters. To achieve LFC, the Variable Speed Drive (VSD) was programmed in the standalone system to regulate the prime mover speed with changes in load. As the generator is already equipped with its own Automatic Voltage Regulator (AVR), it is able to regulate the voltage by itself. Therefore, OPF to regulate the voltage was not implemented due to time constraint.