Large system interaction characteristics of superconducting generators

Differences between superconducting generators and conventional machines are identified, and ways in which superconducting machines will offer both advantages and problems are shown. Superconducting generators will have system interaction characteristics, somewhat different from those of their conventional counterparts. In general, superconducting machines will improve characteristics of the power system; their low reactances and long time constants will improve transient stability and voltage regulation. However, these also produce large fault currents and torques. If care is not taken, these machines may product interesting and perhaps destructive resonant effects on shaft lines. The author builds simple models that allow several important system integration characteristics of synchronous machines, including the differences between conventional and superconducting machines, to be discussed and understood. These include reactive power capability, transient stability, damping, voltage control, fault currents, and torques