Apparatus and method for synchronizing a synchronous condenser with a

Abstract

A synchronous condenser (12) is synchronized with a power system (14) by modifying its rotational speed using a prime mover (18) while controlling the rate of change of rotational speed of the synchronous condenser (FIG. 1). With an open circuit breaker (16), the synchronous condenser (12) is brought to a rotational speed (44) close to a desired synchronizing speed (48). A clutch (20) operates between the prime mover (18) and the synchronous condenser (12) and disengages the prime mover (18) from operation once the synchronous condenser (12) is placed into operation with the power system (14). An excitation voltage is provided to the synchronization condenser (12) for providing an output voltage, which voltage is monitored. The rotational speed of the prime mover (18) is ramped at a desirable rate of change (46) for approaching an acceptable synchronizing speed (50). The rotor speed and system phase angles are monitored for bringing a desirable changing speed close to the synchronizing speed (48). By sensing a signal representative of the rate of change of rotational speed and filtering this sensed signal, a reliable acceleration signal is provided for use by an operator determining when to engage the synchronous condenser (12) with the power system (14). The breaker (16) is then closed when the speed of the synchronous condenser (12) is within the desired range of speeds (50), with a phase angle of the rotor appropriate for placing the synchronous condenser (12) in operation within the power system (14).