SYNCHRONOUS GENERATORS:POWER AND TORQUE IN SYNCHRONOUS GENERATORS

POWER AND TORQUE IN SYNCHRONOUS GENERATORS

A synchronous generator is a machine that converts mechanical power to three-phase electric power. The mechanical power is given usually by a turbine. However, the rotational speed must remain constant to maintain a steady frequency.

Figure 12.15 illustrates the power flow in a synchronous generator. The input mechanical power is Pin Tappwm, while the power converted from mechanical to electric energy is

The output power equation shows that the power produced depends on the angle o (torque angle) between Vcp and EA. Normally, real generators have a full-load torque angle of 15 to 20°. The induced torque in the generator can be expressed as