What is a Synchronous Condenser?
A synchronous condenser is a type of synchronous motor that operates without a mechanical load. It can generate or absorb reactive power by varying the excitation of its field winding. This allows it to take a leading current with over-excitation or a lagging current with under-excitation.
When a synchronous condenser is over-excited, it behaves like a capacitor, delivering inductive or absorbing capacitive reactive power. Conversely, when it is under-excited, it behaves like an inductor, supplying capacitive or absorbing inductive reactive power. By varying the excitation, the current drawn by the motor can be smoothly changed from lagging to leading.
When the motor's power factor is unity, the excitation is said to be normal. Over-excitation causes the motor to operate at a leading power factor, while under-excitation causes it to operate at a lagging power factor. When the motor is operated at no load with over-excitation, it takes a current that leads the voltage by nearly 90 degrees, behaving like a synchronous capacitor.
Where is Synchronous Condenser used?
Synchronous condensers are used in power transmission systems to regulate line voltage. They can help to stabilize the voltage and improve the reliability and efficiency of the electrical grid by controlling the flow of reactive power. Since they behave like a variable inductor or capacitor, they can be used to compensate for changes in the electrical load and prevent voltage fluctuations that can damage equipment and affect the quality of the electrical supply.
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