Field Testing and Adjusting of Hydraulic Turbine-Generator to Improve System Regulation

Abstract

This paper presents some of the results and methods of extensive hydro prime-mover governor tests conducted at the Big Creek Hydro System of the author’s company. Each governor response was improved by making co-ordinated governor adjustments. Frequency-response curves and dead band X-Y charts are included to show the improvement obtained. Frequency dead band and the governor transient response time were improved as much as 50 per cent. A good share of the credit for the results and improvements obtained is due to the use of adequate test equipment. As described elsewhere, the Mobile Dynamics Laboratory for Studying Generating Plant Controls and Governors was designed and used for extensive preliminary tests. Later, a small compact test rig, described in this paper, was assembled and used for the routine testing and adjusting of governors.