Loss of excitation

DSE5500 series controllers include a Loss of excitation alarm that is configured using the PC configuration software.

Cause
o AVR failure
o Alternator failure (for example rotating diodes, internal wiring fault, short circuit in the
field winding)
o Inadvertant opening of an excitation field breaker

Effect
o Failure of reactive (VAr) load sharing leading to import of reactive power which in turn
will lead to overheating and eventual failure of the alternator.
o The parallel connected equipment must now supply additional VAr to the load to make
up for the loss of this machine and supply VAr to it. This could lead to an overload
situation in the remaining generation equipment.
o Self excitation leading to pole slipping.

Detection
o During running of a single generator, not in parallel with another source, loss of
excitation to the generator results in a loss of generator output volts so the generator
undervolts alarm will be triggered.
o During parallel running, loss of generator excitation will not cause an undervoltage alarm
as the other source(s) in parallel will be measured. However this will result in reactive
power (VAr) being imported by the failed alternator.
o Some amount of reverse VAr is acceptable and in fact is catered for in the design of
the alternator. For this reason the loss of excitation alarm within the DSE module is
configurable.

Typical settings
o Although you are referred to your alternator manufacturer for recommended settings for
your alternator, we have some experience of typical settings.
o 30% is a typical setting which will allow the generator to import or absorb up to 30% of
the generators capacity in VAr.

o Your alternator manufacturer will be able to provide you with a capability curve detailing
the alternators capability.
Further details of configuration can be found in the relevant PC software manuals.

056-020 Loss of excitation Issue 1 - ADM