Synchronization
Valois Ian Fernandes
GET Electrical
What is Synchronization?
Synchronization is the process of matching the electrical
parameters of a generator with the busbar (or grid) before
connecting them together.
Importance of Synchronization
●Smooth connection of generator to the grid
●Prevents electrical & mechanical stresses
●Enables load sharing between generators
●Ensures stability & reliability of power supply
Voltage Magnitude. Voltage Magnitude.
Frequency. Frequency.
Phase Sequence Phase Sequence
Phase Angle. Phase Angle.
Main lamp methods of synchronization:
⚡ 1. Three Dark Lamp Method
Connection:
Three lamps (L1, L2, L3) are connected across corresponding terminals of the
alternator and the bus bars (i.e., R–R, Y–Y, B–B).
Working:
If the alternator and bus voltages are equal and in the same phase sequence, all
lamps will glow and darken together as the alternator speed changes slightly
(due to frequency difference).
When the lamps are completely dark, it indicates zero phase difference, i.e.,
alternator voltage is in phase with bus voltage.
Synchronization Point:
The switch is closed when all lamps are dark.
Drawbacks
It’s difficult to determine whether the alternator is running faster or slower than
the bus because lamps darken simultaneously.
⚡ 2. Two Bright and One Dark Lamp Method (Preferred Lamp Method)
Connection:
Lamps are connected between crossed phases:
L1 →Between R (alternator) & R (bus)
L2 →Between Y (alternator) & B (bus)
L3 →Between B (alternator) & Y (bus)
Working:
Connections are cross-phase, the lamps do not glow simultaneously.
As the alternator frequency approaches the bus frequency, the lamps glow in sequence.
When:
Middle lamp is dark
Other two lamps are equally bright
It indicates the alternator is in phase with the bus.
Synchronization Point
The switch is closed at the instant when middle lamp is dark and other two are equally bright.
Advantages:
Can easily determine if the alternator is running faster or slower than the bus.
Provides clear phase relationship visually.
TWO TYPES OF SYNCHRONISERS ARE
USED
(i) CHECK SYNCHRONISER
&
(ii) AUTO SYNCHRONISER
FUNCION OF A CHECK SYNCHRONISER
CHECK SYNCHRONISER TAKES INPUTS, THROUGH SUITABLE
PTS, FROM THE SOURCES TO BE PARALLELLED, AND
EVALUATES
WHEN THE TWO VECTORS MATCH WITH EACH OTHER OR
NEARLY MATCH (AS PER PRESET PERMISSIBLE LIMITS), IT
ENABLES A POTENTIAL FREE CONTACT.
THE POTENTIAL FREE CONTACT OF THE CHECK SYNCHRONISER
IS USED AS PERMISSIVE TO CLOSE THE PARALLELLING CIRCUIT
BREAKER. IF TWO VECTORS DO NOT MATCH, IT BLOCKS CB
CLOSING.
FUNCTION OF AN AUTO SYNCHRONISER
AUTO SYNCHRONISER DOES ADDITIONAL FUNCTION AS COMPARED
TO THAT OF THE CHECK SYNCHRONISER.
WHEN TWO VECTORS ARE NOT MATCHING IT IS CAPABLE OF
ISSUING COMMANDS TO ONE OF THE VECTORS TO ADJUST
SUITABLY TO THAT OF THE OTHER ONE.
AUTO SYNCHRONISERS ARE MAINLY USED IN THE SITUATION WHEN
GENERATORS ARE SYNCHRONISED WITH THE GRID. IT INTERACTS
WITH THE GENERATOR EXCITATION SYSTEM AND TUBINE CONTROL
SYSTEM TO ADJUST THE VOLTAGE & THE FREQUENCY.
Pointer Rotation Meaning:
•Pointer Rotates
Clockwise → Incoming
alternator is running faster
than the busbar frequency.
•Pointer Rotates
Anticlockwise → Incoming
alternator is running
slowerthan the busbar
frequency.
•Pointer at Vertical (12
o’clock) → Both are in
synchronism; breaker can
be closed.
Problems During Poor Synchronization
●Electrical Disturbances → Voltage dips, frequency oscillations, and system instability.
●Mechanical Stress → Sudden torque on the alternator shaft and prime mover, risking
mechanical damage.
●Overheating of Windings → Excessive circulating currents cause overheating and insulation
failure.
●Protection Tripping → Relays and circuit breakers may trip unnecessarily, leading to power
interruptions.
●Damage to Coupling & Bearings → Repeated stress reduces the lifespan of mechanical
components.
●Reduced Efficiency → Poor load sharing and high losses affect system performance.
●Risk of Blackout → In severe cases, improper synchronization can destabilize the grid.
●Reduced System Life → Continuous operation under stress reduces overall reliability of
machines.
Practical Applications of Synchronization
1. Power Plants (Thermal, Hydro, Nuclear)
•Synchronization of multiple alternators for continuous and stable supply.
•Maintains grid frequency and voltage under varying load conditions.
2. Captive Power Plants in Industries
•Industries with their own generation (steel, cement, chemical plants) synchronize alternators with the utility grid.
•Ensures uninterrupted power during peak demand and enhances reliability.
3. Renewable Energy Integration
•Solar, wind, and other renewable sources synchronized with the grid.
•Smart inverters and automatic synchronizers ensure smooth power injection.
•Helps in balancing fluctuating renewable generation with conventional power.
Practical Example
System Description
Synchronization Conditions
Experimental Observation
Unynchronized Conditions
Thank
You