This training simulator is designed to demonstrate the principles of
electrical power generation that, until now, have been taught using only
classroom discussion or paper-based learning. The Electrical Generation
Fundamentals Trainer depicts the relationships that an operator must master
in order to confidently operate modern generating equipment. Practice in
paralleling machines of various sizes is easily accomplished without using
actual equipment or more expensive full-scale simulators.
In addition to a complete array of analog meters, as typically seen in
a control room, a gas plasma display is used to dynamically represent the
abstract concepts of electrical generation. A synchroscope display and a
phase angle display represent the phase difference between running and incoming
sources. A graphic representation of how load is shared by two machines
of different sizes is shown using a generator characteristics curve. The
relationship between real load and reactive load is displayed using meters
and by a pictorial diagram of the power triangle on the gas plasma display.
A variety of inductive, resistive, and capacitive loads can be turned
on and off, reinforcing the effects of reactive load and how power factor
can change. The trainer easily supports instructor demonstration, student
practical exercises, and self-study programs. In use by many utilities,
independent power producers, and grid operators, this inexpensive, yet informative,
training device will make training in basic power plant concepts more informative
and productive. |