Fast and Reliable Detection of Synchronous Generator Loss of Excitation
Using Rotor Speed Variation
Abstract
Loss of Excitation (LOE) is one of the most critical faults in
synchronous generators, which, if not detected promptly, can lead to
power system instability and severe damage to the generator. The main
challenge in distinguishing LOE from Stable Power Swings (SPS) lies in
the time delay, which is a common issue in most recent protection
methods. This paper presents a novel method for LOE detection in
synchronous generators. The method utilizes a new criterion based on the
variation of the generator rotor speed, where this criterion increases
above one per unit after the occurrence of LOE and remains in this
state. Unlike traditional methods that require complex settings, this
approach operates without the need for threshold adjustments, ensuring
accurate and fast performance under various conditions. In the
simulations, generators of various sizes were subjected to various loads
and network scenarios. The results of the simulations, which were
carried out in MATLAB/Simulink, verify that the suggested approach not
only diminishes the detection time but also preserves high accuracy when
system disturbances occur, protecting system stability under severe
conditions.