Grid connected-induction generator start-up sequence observation using laboratory simulator

Start-up, loading, and shut-down procedure of induction generator is different from synchronous generator. At the initial time of grid connection, induction generator's voltage is zero. Therefore, it is assumed here that synchronization procedure as normally occurred with a synchronous generator is not required. However, it is well known that in order to operate properly, an induction generator needs reactive power. This power requirement results in voltage shift at the point of common coupling (PCC). In this paper, impacts of sudden reactive power changes over start-up, loading, and shut-down sequence of an asynchronous generator is investigated. Experiment has been done through a 1.1 kW induction generator which is connected to 0.07 + j0.13 pu grid simulator. It is evident from the experiments that the effect of induction generator over the grid during start-up, loading, and shutdown is determined by initial generator speed, feeder length, and the timing of capacitor connection.