An Introduction to Generator Voltage, Station Service and Control Systems for Hydroelectric Power Plants

Course Description:

This course will introduce you to the generator-voltage system for hydroelectric power plants, which includes the leads and associated equipment between the generator terminals and the low-voltage terminals of the GSU transformers, and between the neutral leads of the generator and the power plant grounding system. The equipment generally associated with the generator-voltage system includes switchgear; instrument transformers for metering, relaying, and generator excitation systems; neutral grounding equipment; and surge protection equipment. The equipment is classified as medium-voltage equipment.  This course also discusses the station service and control systems for hydroelectric power plants.

Learning Objectives:

Upon successful completion of this course, participants will be able to:

·         Learn about “generator leads”, which are the circuits between the generator terminals and the low voltage terminals of the generator stepup unit transformers.

·         Learn why phase conductors need to be enclosed in a common metal enclosure without barriers, with phase conductors insulated with molded material and supported on molded material or porcelain insulators.

·         Learn how to design isolated phases buses for hydroelectric power plants.

·         Learn about the different types of insulated cables and how they are employed.

·         Learn about oil-filled cable terminations.

·         Learn how instrument transformers are employed in hydroelectric power plants.

·         Learn the fundamental elements of a hydroelectric power plant’s station service system.

·         Learn about control systems and components for a hydroelectric power plant.