Chapter 4
Case Studies Related to Generator System Disturbances
In this chapter we present case studies related to generator disturbances and abnormal system conditions. Case Study 4.1 presents an actual DFR record that reveals the presence of a double-frequency rotor current as a result of negative-sequence stator current flow, which is normally present during unbalanced system faults. Case Study 4.2 covers inadvertent energizing of a generating unit with induced 60-Hz current in the rotor circuit that can stress the rotor thermally and destroy it. Due to the increase in the frequency of inadvertent energizing occurrences, dedicated protective relay schemes developed and recommended by generator manufacturers are described. Case Study 4.3 documents a generator trip due to the loss of excitation caused by human error and its impact on the system and the required unit loss of field protection. Case Study 4.4 illustrates a unit trip due to the loss of its excitation system and the impact of the unit excitation loss on the surrounding system voltages. Case Study 4.5 highlights a mis-synchronization incident of a unit caused by a false automatic synchronizer output during the mode change which closed the unit breaker accidentally, thus energizing the generator at a wider angle with the system. Case Studies 4.6 and 4.7 describe mis-synchronization of units, resulting in power plant trips. The incidents apparently generated an out-of-step condition (power swing), causing the generating ...