At a minimum the following tests should be performed every five years. Data should be compared against the data from previous tests. Permanent changes in the tested data need to be reported to the CAA.
At a minimum the following tests should be performed every five years. Data should be compared against the data from previous tests. Permanent changes in the tested data need to be reported to the CAA.
At a minimum the following tests should be performed every five years. Data should be compared against the data from previous tests. Permanent changes in the tested data need to be reported to the CAA.
Hydraulic Generator/Excitation/Stabilizer/Governor
Planning Standard Certification Testing
(Performance Standard)
WSCC Control Work Group
September 1999
Principal Investigators: Karl Bryan and George Girgis,Ata minimum the following tests should be performed every five years.
A) Generator Tests
1) Open Circuit Saturation Verification
Purpose: Verify selected points on the generator’s open circuit saturation curve to
ensure that there are no obvious differences in the unit's excitation
requirements. Data should be compared against the data from previous
tests. Significant differences should be investigated. Permanent
changes in the tested data need to be reported to the CAAControl Area
Authority(CAA) and to those involved in performing system studies. ghi
‘note: in Alberta the aystom operator does not receive this type of data. | know that when
NERC or WSCC say contol area operator, in Alberta, the operator is diferent than those
who actualy need this data)
Procedure: Bring the machine up to minimum operating terminal voltage and then
increase the voltage by 5% increments until the the maximum emergency
‘operating point is reached. Record field current and terminal voltage at
each point.
B) Excitation System Tests
1) Off-Line Tests
a, Closed-Loop Voltage Regulator Response
Purpose: To measure the overall performance of the closed-loop voltage regulator
using a step and/or frequency response type tests. These types of tests
will reveal any changes or problems with the control system. Additionally,
the frequency response test will aid in excitation system parameter
identification for simulation studies.
Procedure: With the unit oftine, insert a test signal into the automatic (AC) voltage
regulator (AVR) summing junction and record field voltage, field current,
and terminal voltage. Typically a 1 to 10% step change is performed and
the frequency response range Is .05 to 5 Hz. Refer to IEEE Std. 421.2
Table 1 for acceptable performance. Differences between the measured
response and those previously reported need to be investigated,
Permanent changes in the tested data need to be reported to the CAA
and to those invoived in performing system studies.
b, Volts per Hertz Limiter and Protection Tests
Purpose: To verify V/Hz limiter and protection are properly set and coordinated.
Typically, the V/Hz limiter is set between 1.05 and 1.1 pu. The relay is
typically set slightly higher with a 5 to 15 second fixed time delay or an
Inverse time delay within the transformer thermal heating limit curve (core
heating curve).Procedure:
The V/Hz limiter test is performed off-line. With the unit off-line, increase
terminal voltage to correspond to the ratio and reduce speed in 1 Hz
increments. Record the V/Hz ratio at each interval to 54 Hz.
For the V/Hz relay, disable the V/Hz limiter and reduce unit speed to the
point where increasing the terminal voltage will reach the set point of the
relay. Increase the terminal voltage until the set point is reached and
ensure that the device is activated and trips the unit in the appropriate
amount of time.
¢. Exciter Overvoltage Protective Tests,
Purpose:
Procedure:
Normally, two types of exciter overvoltage protective devices are
installed, one for instantaneous and the other for fixed or inverse time
protection. These devices are used to protect the machine field in cases.
were the automatic voltage regulator (AC) malfunctions in such a way
that applies excessive field voltage and / or current. Typically, the
instantaneous overvoltage protection is set above the normal ceiling
forcing voltage of the exciter, This is typically at least 150 percent of the
rated load field voltage. The timed overvoltage protection is typically set
at about 120 to 130 percent of the rated load field voltage with about 25
to 40 second delay for fixed time delay devices. For inverse time delay
devices, the protective curve is set within the ANSI C50.13 field winding
short time thermal capability curve. Verify the coordination between
limiters and protective circuits in both the regulator and external relays.
The overvoltage relays can be tested during voltage application when the
exciter reaches its ceiling voltage. Normally, this ceiling level can be
controlled by limiting the voltage regulator output. Set the relays to the
appropriate levels and then test them by controlling the exciter voltage. If
the exciter voltage cannot be controlled easily, set the relays and
thoroughly test them with a relay test set.
2) On-Line Tests
a. Closed-Loop Voltage Regulator Response
Purpose:
Procedure:
‘To measure the overall performance of the closed-loop automatic (AC)
voltage regulator using a step and / or frequency response type tests.
The on-line response test indicates speed and stability of the generator
and power system combination. In some cases, a control system with
excellent off-line response characteristics may produce oscillations when
the machine is connected to the power system. Therefore, the on-line
step response is a valuable test that must be performed
With the unit on-line, 80% of full load or better with the Power System
Stabilizer (PSS) out of service, insert a test signal into the automatic,(AC) voltage regulator summing junction and record field voltage, field
current, terminal voltage, and generator output power. Typically a 1 to 5%
step change is performed and the frequency response range is 0.05 to 5
Hz. Differences between the measured response and those previously
reported need to be investigated. Any excessive oscillations must be
investigated and remedied. Oscillation in the generator power signal may
indicate the need for PSS compensation at local mode. Permanent
changes in the tested data need to be reported to the CAA and to those
involved in performing system studies.
b, Reactive Current Compensation Tests (voltage droop)
Purpose:
Procedure:
Purpose:
Procedure:
Verify that the reactive current compensation (voltage droop) is set
correctly for units sharing a step up transformer. This is typically set
such that the effective impedance between the regulation point and the
point of interconnection to the power system is between 10 to 15 percent
on the generator’s base.
‘With the units tied to the system (sharing the same step-up transformer),
over and under excite one unit and observe the reaction of the other unit.
The reacting unit should absorb / provide one-half to two-thirds of the
\VArs being produced/absorbed by the controlled unit.
ine drop Compensation Tests
Verify that the line drop compensation is set correctly (for units with high
impedance transformers or remote locations in the system). Line drop is
typically set such that the effective impedance between the regulation
point and the point of interconnection to the power system is between 5
to 10 percent on the generator's base.
With the units tied to the system, perform a step response test with and
without the line drop compensation. Compare the magnitude of the step
response without compensation to the magnitude with compensation in
service. The step magnitude (and VAr output change) with compensation
should be larger than the step magnitude without compensation. The
ratio of step sizes indicates the ratio between actual impedance and
compensated impedance.. Under Excitation Limiter (UEL) Tests
Purpose:
Procedure:
Verify that the under-excitation limiter is set correctly. Investigate any
differences and resolve appropriately.
With the unit tied to the system, under excite the machine at different
Joads (MW levels) until the UEL becomes active. Hold the VAr level for a
few minutes and ensure limiter stability. Additionally, a step response
test can be performed while in limit to ensure its stability. Record
terminal voltage, MW, MVAr, and field current.
e. Over Excitation Limiter and Protection Tests (OEL and OEP)
Purpose:
Procedure:
Measure the operating point of the over-excitation limiter and over-
excitation protection circuitry within the AVR. Verify the coordination
between limiters and protective circuits in both the regulator and external
relays, Differences between the expected and measured operating level
should be corrected
With the generator off and isolated, and the AVR electronics energized
from a test supply, connect the dc source in place of the field current or
field voltage isolator input to the Over Excitation Limiter (OEL) and Over
Excitation Protection (OEP). Connect a multi-meter to monitor the output
of the OEL and OEP timed and instantaneous outputs.
The timed levels of the OEL and OEP should be within the ANSI C 50.13,
field winding short time thermal capability curve. The instantaneous level
for the OEL is typically set to 150 percent of rated-load field current, The
instantaneous level for the OEP is usually slightly higher than the OEL to
provide proper coordination.
Afterwards, functional testing should be performed at reduced or actual
levels if possible, Testing at actual levels does have some risks;
however, proper operation and coordination with protective devices can
best be verified at the actual levels.
f. Loss-of-Field Relay Test
Purpose:
Procedure:
Verify proper coordination between the Under Excitation Limiter (UEL),
the machine capability, and loss-of field relay.
This relay can be safely tested at light or no-load (zero MW) conditions.
Calculate the MVAR level for pickup with the unit at this reduced or no-
load condition. With the unit on-line at no-load or a light load, disable the
UEL and underexcite (absorb VArs from the system) while monitoring
MVArs, terminal voltage, and field current until the Loss-of-field relay
picks up. If unable to reach the required MVAr level due to system
conditions and/or the machine parameters, use a relay test set to perform
this test. Additionally, ensure that the CT polarity to the relay is correct.Reenable the UEL and protective interlocks when the test has been
‘completed.C) Power System Stabilizer (PSS) Tests
1) Stabilizer Settings
Purpose: Confirm that the stabilizer settings match recommended levels. Report
any differences between as-found and recommended settings.
Procedure: Record the as-found stabilizer settings. Investigate any differences
between present and previous settings and resolve appropriately.
2) Frequency Transducer Calibration (for frequency based PSS)
Purpose: Measure the calibration of the frequency transducer used as the input to
the PSS. Correct any problems which are discovered.
Procedure: Take the unit PSS out-of-service (note: if unit is scheduled to operate on-
line, inform Operations prior to performing this step). Isolate the
frequency transducer input and output circuitry from the PSS. Connect a
relay test set to the frequency transducer input and set for nominal
conditions. Record the output voltage of the frequency transducer for
varying frequencies (vary the input frequency from 58 to 62 Hz). Confirm
the manufacturer's calibration (typically 1V/Hz or 2V/Hz).
3) Megawatt transducer Calibration (for accelerating power based PSS)
Purpose: ‘Measure the calibration of the megawatt transducer used as the input to
the PSS. Investigate any problems that arise.
Procedure: Take the unit PSS out-of-service (note: if unit is scheduled to operate on-
line, inform Operations prior to performing this step). Isolate the
megawatt transducer input and output circuitry from the PSS. Connect
the test set to the megawatt transducer input and set for nominal
conditions. Record the output voltage of the megawatt transducer for
varying inputs. Confirm calibration is within the manufacturer's
recommendation.4) Stabilizer Time-Domain Response
Purpose:
Procedure:
Measure the performance of the PSS using a step and / or frequency
response test. Differences between the measured response and those
previously reported should be investigated.
Use the step input connection described in the previous tests (at the
automatic voltage regulator summing junction). Record terminal voltage,
active power (MW), frequency, and stabilizer output voltage.
With the unit on-line, 80% of full load or better with the PSS (Power
System Stabilizer) in service, insert a test signal into the automatic (AC)
voltage regulator summing junction and record field voltage, field current,
terminal voltage, and generator output power. Typically a 1 to 2% step
change is performed and the frequency response range is 0.05 to 5 Hz.
‘Compare with pervious resuits and report any differences. If the
recorded stabilizer output has excessive high frequency noise than
shown in previous tests, or if damping of electrical power output is
significantly low, investigate further.
5) PSS Output Limiter Circuitry Test
Purpose:
Procedure:
To ensure that the output limits are properly adjusted.
Disconnect the PSS output from the voltage regulator input. Insert a
large DC input into the PSS to force its output to the limit. Record the
output voltage and ensure limiter functions correctly. Typically, the PSS
output limiters are set to produce a maximum of + 5 to + 10 percent
change in terminal voltage,D) Hydro Governor Tests.
1) Governor Settings.
Purpose:
Procedure:
Confirm that governor settings match recommended levels. Report any
differences between as-found and recommended settings.
Tabulate as-found dial settings. Investigate any differences between
present and previous settings and resolve appropriately.
2) Static Measurements
Purpose:
Procedure:
Confirm that transducers used within the governor electronics are
calibrated properly. Investigate and correct any problems.
Operate the unit on-fine at partial load (note: level is not critical to this
calibration) Confirm watt transducer output calibration.
Unit Load mw Output Voltage = Vde
Ratio = VIMW =
3) Permanent Speed Droop and Effective Speed Regulation
Purpose:
Procedure:
Confirm that the unit's permanent droop is set to the required level.
With the unit off-line set the speed adjust to produce 60 Hz and record
the initia! speed changer and gate position. Increase the speed adjust by
‘1% and record the frequency. Synchronize the unit to the system and
operate at the initial speed changer and gate position (the off-line 60 Hz
position). Record the power level (MW). Increase the speed adjust by 1
percent. Allow several minutes for the gate position to settle to a new
steady state level. Record the final power level and gate position.
Initial gate posit Initial power (MW)
Final gate position = Final power (MVV)
Difference = Difference =
Calculate the speed droop!
Spoed Droop = (% change in speed/ % change in gate position)*100
Speed Droop =
Calculate speed regulation:
‘Speed Regulation = (% change in speed! % change in MVW)*100
‘Speed Regulation =4) Gate Time Constant
Purpose:
Procedure:
Confirm that the selected governor parameters produce the desired gate
time constant
Operate the unit on-line at the same gate position and power output used
inthe previous step. Record gate position and MW on a strip chart
recorder or data acquisition equioment. Rapidly move the speed changer
(speed reference) by 1%. Calculate the gate time constant, The time
constant is 0.63 of the time required for the unit to complete its response
to a sudden speed change. The gate time constant is calculated by
measuring the time between the initial gate movement to the 63% of the
final steady state value. If the measured time constant is not the same
as in previous tests adjust the governor parameters to achieve the
desired time constant
Measured time = s
For mechanical governors, this test is performed with the dashpot in
service and bypassed.
5) Gate Timing
Purpose:
Procedure:
To confirm the correct gate timing
This test can be performed by traditional means (load rejection) or during
the unwatered govemor testing. Keep in mind that the gate timing will be
a little faster with the turbine unwatered.
During the load rejection test record the gate position and unit speed.
Measure the time for the gates to change by 25% and multiply by 4.
Gate Timing = s
6) Speed Changer Adjustment/Calibration
Purpose:
Procedure:
To verify the speed changer calibration
With the unit on-line increase or decrease the speed changer by 1%.
Record the change in gate position. The gates should change between
48 and 22 percent.
E) Thermal Governor Tests
1) Permanent Speed Droop
Purpose:
Procedure:
Confirm that the unit's permanent droop is set to the required level
With the unit on-line measure the governor setpoint or reference position
at the point where the governor valve(s) are 100% open. Record the
10‘governor setpoint or reference position as Gov Ref A.. With the unit off-
line at speed no load, slowly increase the governor reference position
where 100% valve opening was observed with the unit on-line. Measure
the generator speed and governor valve(s) opening. Record as Gov
Valve B.
‘The permanent droop of the governor is;
Generator Speed! copaua~ Generator Rated Speed )
Generator Rated Speed
Permanent Droop =| X 100
Example:
( 3780 rom covet ~ 3800 rpm )
3600 rem
0.05102 X 100
(10% 2a)
2) Effective Droop
Purpose: Determine the online generator behavior to frequency deviation. This
may be a linear or non-linear MW ~ Frequency behavior,
Procedure: With the generator off-line and governor setpoint or reference at Gov Ref
A, log 5 or 6 governor setpoint or reference positions and associated
generator speed.
GovRefA Generator Speed A (approx. 105% rated speed)
Gov RefB Generator Speed B (approx. 104.7% rated speed)
GovRefC Generator Speed C (approx. 104.4% rated speed)
GovRefD Generator Speed D (approx. 104% rated speed)
GovRefE Generator Speed E (approx. 103% rated speed)
Gov RefF Generator Speed F (at rated speed)
With the generator on-line and governor setpoint or reference at Gov Ref
A, slowly lower the governor setpoint or reference to the Gov Ref B thru F
positions, allow process conditions to stabilize and record the MW output,
GovRefA Generator MWA (approx. 100% MCR)
GovRefB Generator MWB (approx. 97% MCR)
GovRefC Generator MWC (approx. 95% MCR)
GovRefD Generator MWD (approx. 85% MCR)
GovRef— Generator MWE (approx. 70% MCR)
GovRefF Generator MWF (approx 0% MCR)
Example:
[Gear tums at [Measured Off | Generator [Measured On- [Effective Droop]
1Teference pont] Line Speed
Gov RofA 8 3780
Gov Ref B 78 3768.75
Gov Ref C
7 3757.5
Gov Ref D 6 37365
Gov RefE 5 37125
Gov Ref F 0 3600,
‘Note: In mechanical hydraule governors, the governor sefpoint could be Tmeasured in turns of fhe speeder
\gear. For electronic or digital governors the governor reference could be measured by a voltage or number
‘on computer readout.
Where effective droop is;
cenecty orop ® Sertn VA of Serre 85g aang GE. SAM racasr”) 199
P| Seat iaenscag” Ot Wilpagcane ated Generic Spand
A graph of effective droop versus generator MW can be plotted and used
in data for governor models,
Effective Droop of Governor System
35%
25%
20%
15%
10%
5%
0%
Effective Droop %
° 100 200 300 400 500
MW Outout of Generator
3) Governor Valve Open and Closing Rates
Purpose: XXXXxx
Procedure: xxx
4) Boiler Time Constants and Gain
Purpose: 00x
Procedure: xxxxxxx
42