Performance analysis of a three-phase induction generator self-excited with a single capacitance

This paper presents a unified method of analysis for a three-phase induction generator self-excited with a single capacitance and supplying a single-phase load. Symmetrical components analysis is used to establish the input impedance of the generator, while the pattern search method of Hooke and Jeeves enables the per-unit frequency and magnetizing reactance of the machine to be determined, a crucial step in computing the generator performance. Best machine performance is obtained using the Steinmetz connection, with the excitation capacitance connected across the lagging phase. Experiments carried out using a 2.2 kW induction machine confirm the accuracy of the theoretical analysis and the solution method.