Mini Hydro - Synchronous or Asynchronous

[ccdubs]

Hi All,

I am designing the electrical components for a 200 kW grid connected hydro scheme. I have done a cost comparison using a synchronous (genset) generator and an induction generator (with caps) and the two prices are very comparable.

My preference is to go with synchronous as this is what I am familiar with and it is a very flexible topology with respect to voltage control.

My research on other schemes of about the same size seems to show that induction machines are typically used. I was wondering if anyone knew why this is.

The turbine is a low head device using a crossflow design. Power will be controlled by a governing valve.

Any info is appreciated.

 

[motorspert]

ccdubs
Will you always be connected to the grid if not, do you want to conrol the voltage as the load varies? If you need voltage control then you have to have synchonous. Otherwise, asynchronous is preferred in a lot of cases as there is less to install and less to go wrong.

Rich