Synchronizati
on
Valois Ian
Fernandes
GET Electrical
What is Synchronization?
Synchronization is the process of matching the electrical
parameters of a generator with the busbar (or grid)
before connecting them together.
Importance of Synchronization
●Smooth connection of generator to the grid
●Prevents electrical & mechanical stresses
●Enables load sharing between generators
●Ensures stability & reliability of power supply
Voltage Magnitude. Voltage Magnitude.
Frequency. Frequency.
Phase Sequence Phase Sequence
Phase Angle. Phase Angle.
There are three main lamp methods of synchronization:
⚡ 1. Three Dark Lamp Method
Connection:
• Three lamps (L1, L2, L3) are connected across corresponding terminals of the alternator and
the bus bars (i.e., R–R, Y–Y, B–B).
Working:
• If the alternator and bus voltages are equal and in the same phase sequence, all lamps will
glow and darken together as the alternator speed changes slightly (due to frequency
difference).
• When the lamps are completely dark, it indicates zero phase difference, i.e., alternator voltage
is in phase with bus voltage.
Synchronization Point:
• The switch is closed when all lamps are dark.
Drawbacks
• It’s difficult to determine whether the alternator is running faster or slower than the bus
⚡ 3. Two Bright and One Dark Lamp Method (Preferred Lamp Method)
Connection:
• Lamps are connected between crossed phases:
⚬ L1 → Between R (alternator) & Y (bus)
⚬ L2 → Between Y (alternator) & B (bus)
⚬ L3 → Between B (alternator) & R (bus)
Working:
• Because the connections are cross-phase, the lamps do not glow simultaneously.
• As the alternator frequency approaches the bus frequency, the lamps glow in sequence.
• When:
⚬ Middle lamp is dark
⚬ Other two lamps are equally bright
⚬ → It indicates the alternator is in phase with the bus.
Synchronization Point
• The switch is closed at the instant when middle lamp is dark and other two are equally bright.
Advantages:
• Can easily determine if the alternator is running faster or slower than the bus.
• Provides clear phase relationship visually.
TWO TYPES OF SYNCHRONISERS
ARE USED
(i) CHECK SYNCHRONISER
&
(ii) AUTO SYNCHRONISER
FUNCION OF A CHECK
SYNCHRONISER
CHECK SYNCHRONISER TAKES INPUTS, THROUGH SUITABLE
PTS, FROM THE SOURCES TO BE PARALLELLED, AND
EVALUATES
WHEN THE TWO VECTORS MATCH WITH EACH OTHER OR
NEARLY MATCH (AS PER PRESET PERMISSIBLE LIMITS), IT
ENABLES A POTENTIAL FREE CONTACT.
THE POTENTIAL FREE CONTACT OF THE CHECK
SYNCHRONISER IS USED AS PERMISSIVE TO CLOSE THE
PARALLELLING CIRCUIT BREAKER. IF TWO VECTORS DO NOT
MATCH, IT BLOCKS CB CLOSING.
FUNCTION OF AN AUTO SYNCHRONISER
AUTO SYNCHRONISER DOES ADDITIONAL FUNCTION AS
COMPARED TO THAT OF THE CHECK SYNCHRONISER.
WHEN TWO VECTORS ARE NOT MATCHING IT IS CAPABLE OF
ISSUING COMMANDS TO ONE OF THE VECTORS TO ADJUST
SUITABLY TO THAT OF THE OTHER ONE.
AUTO SYNCHRONISERS ARE MAINLY USED IN THE SITUATION
WHEN GENERATORS ARE SYNCHRONISED WITH THE GRID. IT
INTERACTS WITH THE GENERATOR EXCITATION SYSTEM AND
TUBINE CONTROL SYSTEM TO ADJUST THE VOLTAGE & THE
FREQUENCY.
Pointer Rotation
Meaning:
•Pointer Rotates
Clockwise → Incoming
alternator is running faster
than the busbar frequency.
•Pointer Rotates
Anticlockwise →
Incoming alternator is
running slowerthan the
busbar frequency.
•Pointer at Vertical
(12 o’clock) → Both are
in synchronism; breaker can
be closed.
Problems During Poor Synchronization
●Electrical Disturbances → Voltage dips, frequency oscillations, and system instability.
●Mechanical Stress → Sudden torque on the alternator shaft and prime mover, risking
mechanical damage.
●Overheating of Windings → Excessive circulating currents cause overheating and
insulation failure.
●Protection Tripping → Relays and circuit breakers may trip unnecessarily, leading to
power interruptions.
●Damage to Coupling & Bearings → Repeated stress reduces the lifespan of mechanical
components.
●Reduced Efficiency → Poor load sharing and high losses affect system performance.
●Risk of Blackout → In severe cases, improper synchronization can destabilize the grid.
●Reduced System Life → Continuous operation under stress reduces overall reliability of
machines.
Practical Applications of Synchronization
1. Power Plants (Thermal, Hydro, Nuclear)
•Synchronization of multiple alternators for continuous and stable supply.
•Maintains grid frequency and voltage under varying load conditions.
2. Captive Power Plants in Industries
•Industries with their own generation (steel, cement, chemical plants) synchronize alternators with the utility grid.
•Ensures uninterrupted power during peak demand and enhances reliability.
3. Renewable Energy Integration
•Solar, wind, and other renewable sources synchronized with the grid.
•Smart inverters and automatic synchronizers ensure smooth power injection.
•Helps in balancing fluctuating renewable generation with conventional power.
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