Electronic reverse power relay

Abstract

An electronic protective relay which offers a very sensitive detection of a reverse power condition of a three-phase alternating current generator for the protection against generator motoring is disclosed. A current signal is generated from a current transformer coupled to one phase of the ac generator; and a voltage signal is generated from a potential transformer coupled across the one phase and another phase of the generator. A current input circuit is operative to maintain the phase angle between the voltage and current signals over a wide variation of input current, e.g. from one milliamp to 75 amperes. In addition, a phase-rectification type multiplier affords a relatively simple, but effective method for detecting the power flow direction of the generator. Once the power flow is determined to be in the reverse direction and above a preselected magnitude, a signal indicative of a potential generator motoring condition is geneated. Also included in the relay is an undervoltage detection circuit which operates to disable the generator motoring indication if the generator's voltage has not yet reached or has dropped below an adjustable undervoltage setting. Still further, the relay circuit includes timers in both the undervoltage and reverse power detection areas to insure that their respective conditions persist for a preset time duration in each case before an action is initiated.