Modeling and Real-Time Simulation of Internal Faults in Synchronous Generators With Parallel-Connected Windings

In large synchronous generators, the stator windings are usually parallel-connected in order to increase the machine current capacity. In analysis and modeling, the parallel windings are usually lumped into one equivalent stator winding since equal currents flow in these windings. However, when an internal fault occurs in the windings, the symmetry between the parallel windings is broken and different currents will flow in the parallel windings since unsymmetrical magnetic linkage may exist between the stator windings. The aim of this paper is to present a simulation model to investigate the internal fault currents of large synchronous generators with parallel-connected windings. This model is based on a modified winding function theory that takes into account all space harmonics. Moreover, the calculation of the machine inductances is made easier by the use of the machine electrical parameters instead of the geometrical ones. The simulation results illustrate the existence of different currents in parallel windings in the case of internal faults. Results are given for an implementation of the internal fault model in a real-time simulator of large power networks.