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Fundamentals of Excitation System

Excitation Basics

What is an Excitation System?

Synchronous Machine Operation Modes and
Characteristics.

MPW Release 10 March 2003 Operation and Maintenance Training 1 UNITROL 5000

Release 10.06.2004 Excitation Basics Page 1

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What is an Excitation System?

North

Rotor The rotor of a

synchronous machine
is an electromagnet.
Current
The effect of the
rotating flux on the
stator windings
produces an induced
South voltage.

MPW Release 10 March 2003 Operation and Maintenance Training 2 UNITROL 5000

The excitation systems primary function is to supply current to the electromagnet.

The inducing of a voltage using the electromagnet is said to EXCITE the machine, and therefore the
system that supplies the current is called an Excitation System.

The amount of current supplied directly influences the strength of the electromagnet and therefore the
level of the induced voltage on the stator.

For a synchronous generator, the field winding (the electromagnet) is always on the rotor. This is
because the amount of current is smaller than on the stator and is therefore easier to arrange on a moving
shaft. (e.g. by use of brushes)

It is also possible to eliminate the need for brushes and large scale power electronics by use of an exciter
machine, and diodes. (see configuration section)

However, with modern Power Electronic equipment it is possible to take advantage of the superior
control characteristic of a direct excitation. This is usually cheaper than buying a second machine.

Release 10.06.2004 Excitation Basics Page 2