ELECTRICAL SYSTEM DESIGN OF LOCAL GENERATOR APPLICATIONS
INVOLVING ADJUSTABLE SPEED DRIVES
Copyright Material IEEE
Paper No. PCIC-
Kurt Concienne Terry Rainey Richard Paes
Member, IEEE Member, IEEE Sr. Member, IEEE
Chevron Chevron Rockwell Automation
Abstract - The term local generator as used in this paper is
intended to describe a dedicated generator supply to a specific
facility which would have a more limited and specific capacity
and loading than a broader and higher capacity utility supply.
These systems, particularly when there is a large non-linear
component, require additional coordination and design
considerations as a result. Generator suppliers obviously
understand their equipment in great detail and have well
defined application guidelines for the more typical linear loads
which they are expecting to supply. Adjustable speed drives
and other non-linear loads bring additional factors into play such
as harmonics, possible requirement for harmonics filters, and
the specifics of their topology design such as the inherent
capacitance involved in all drive designs.
The intent of this paper is to address the necessary
application considerations when applying non-linear loads on
local generation starting at the basics of sizing and progressing
through topics such as alternator sizing, voltage and speed
regulation, etc. Specific focus will be with respect to an
application issue which arose for a recent offshore application
involving a high component of non-linear adjustable speed drive
loading on their offshore distribution system per the author’s
experience.
Index Terms — Local generation, non-linear loads, line side
harmonics, adjustable speed drives, system design
I. INTRODUCTION
The use of Adjustable Speed Drives (ASDs) in all industries
is becoming increasingly more common today than ever before.
The reasons for this are many ranging from the increased
reliability, improved ease of use, reductions in size and cost but
probably foremost, the energy savings these controllers bring to
a world which is becoming increasingly aware of the need to be
green and to decrease our environmental footprint. As a result,
ASDs are seen in a wide variety of applications, environments
and on various distribution systems. In fact there are current
projects which are looking at placing this technology on the
ocean floor for sub-sea applications.
Medium voltage ASDs by nature tend to be utilized on the
largest and the key processes and applications at their
respective facilities making them critical equipment which must
run to maintain production. The size of the ASD impacts
matters in that a large non-linear load will have a greater impact
on the supply to which it is connected as opposed to numerous
smaller loads. The critical nature of the application(s) drives the
need for a backup source of supply for these controllers which
will in turn mean some form of back up supply in the form of
local generation which, for economic and practical reasons, will
be of a much more limited capacity. A good example here is
Gary Skibinski Stefan Zak
Sr. Member, IEEE Member, IEEE
Rockwell Automation Rockwell Automation
water / waste water facilities which will have backup diesel
generators at individual stations so that flow can be maintained
during a power outage of these critical services. The pumps
which are the load during an outage would be the majority of
the requirement.
Another reason for local generation relates to installations
which have no other source of supply. Examples here would be
remote installations without an existing power grid or possibly
waiting for electrical service, off shore platforms and marine
propulsion. In these cases, local generation is the only
alternative, however, it is expected that this supply will be much
more limited in its capacity than a typical onshore utility supply
which are more common and therefore more familiar.
While all equipment is ultimately fed by a generator of some
type, the benefit of utilities are that they are of much larger
capacity typically, there is much greater diversity of loads on the
grid to correct any harmonics or unbalances which may be seen
at a particular facility and the fact that the utility is responsible
for the operation and maintenance of this source. On the other
hand, utilities have requirements which are enforced in order to
connect to their system so that a guaranteed power quality is
maintained for their customers such as IEEE 519 -1992 which
is a guideline but not a requirement when the user is on his own
supply.
Local generation has further impact to the owner of the
installation than simply the limited capacity. It also means that
this local supply will fall within the scope of the installation and
therefore is the responsibility of the owner and requires his
design consideration and technical support.
II. AC ADJUSTABLE SPEED DRIVE TOPOLOGIES
AC adjustable speed drives represent one of a number of
non-linear loads which are in common use today. Other
examples of non-linear loads include Uninterruptible Power
Supplies (UPS), electronic soft starters and also include
transformers, certain forms of lighting, etc. Non-linear loads in
general require additional consideration when utilized on local
generator supply since they have different characteristics and
may utilize components which are not the norm for generator
suppliers who are more familiar with linear inductive loads. As
such, application guidelines and selection criteria for these non-
linear loads are not as commonly known in the industry which
can lead to misunderstanding and application issues.
1
 Regenerative AC Drive
Regenerative AC Drive
SGCTs
IGBTs in series

AC Motor Output
AC line Input

Converter DC Inverter Converter DC Link Inverter

AC to DC Bus DC to AC AC to DC Inductor DC to AC
Filter
(a) Schematic
(a) Schematic

500.0
54.2m 60.0m 70.0m 80.0m 90.0m 100.0m 104.2m
I"LX1" = f(T...
VMRN = f(T...
MOTORING
ASD terminals: MOTORING
250.0 250.0

V line –neutral
0 0

I Line neutral (red) V line - neutral (top)

-250.0 -250.0

(b) Waveforms
-500.0
500.0
54.2m

54.2m
60.0m

60.0m
70.0m

70.0m
80.0m

80.0m
90.0m

90.0m
100.0m

100.0m
104.2m
-500.0
I"LX1" [A] =...
104.2m VMRN [V] =...
I line neutral (bottom)
MOTORING
250.0 250.0

REGENERATING
ASD terminals:
0 0

-250.0 -250.0
V line – neutral
-500.0
54.2m 60.0m 70.0m 80.0m 90.0m 100.0m 104.2m
-500.0
I Line neutral (red) (b) Waveforms

Fig. 1 Low Voltage AFE with PWM VSI ASD Fig. 2 Medium Voltage AFE with PWM CSI ASD

This extends beyond simply the permanent and permanent While it is an oversimplification, for the purpose of this paper,
backup installations to include the use of generators for we will discuss two topologies – LV AFE rectifier and MV AFE
temporary power as mentioned earlier. For our purpose, the PWM CSI. These topologies differ quite substantially and as
focus of this paper will be AC adjustable speed drives as the such will vary with respect to application considerations.
load to be considered on local generation. A Current Source PWM Inverter (CSI) drive with active front
AC adjustable speed drives tend to be grouped in a common end is shown in Fig. 2. This version of current source drive is
category, however, while common in purpose and basic particularly chosen for discussion since this rectifier option is
functionality; the rectification of AC power to create a DC supply quite different than the usual multi-pulse diode bridge or SCR
which in turn is switched to produce an alternating supply of rectifiers discussed earlier and is the drive application
controlled frequency to a motor; there are a variety of ratings, discussed in the paper. This drive topology includes a line side
forms and topologies which an AC adjustable speed drive can capacitor and a three phase line reactor or transformer as well
take. The greatest consistency is seen in the area of Low as a motor side (output) capacitor. This LC filter on the line side
Voltage (LV) drives where the common approach is VSI – PWM is designed to mitigate harmonics and achieve IEEE-519-1992
inverter which utilizes a relatively simple 2 level configuration. harmonic guidelines. The drive operates by controlling the firing
With advances in technology, ratings continue to expand with angle of the two bridges (line side and machine side converters)
400 / 480 and 600 / 690 volt units getting to be as large as 2000 and establishing a dc link current with desired amplitude. The
HP or more. This has led to additional rectifier choices beyond amplitude of the dc link current and the firing delay of the two
the passive 6 pulse diode bridge which is the most common. converters are decided by the load requirements. This topology
Today, multi-pulse and Active Front End (AFE) technology are has the beneficial characteristic of 0.98 to unity power factor.
becoming more prevalent at lower voltages and ratings in order The primary consideration for this drive topology when applying
to address the rectifier harmonics which will be produced on a local generator is the line capacitance.
directly rather than using harmonic filters.
In Medium Voltage (MV) drives, both current and voltage Regardless of topology, items these adjustable speed drives
source topologies exist with rectifier options involving higher have in common are:
pulse solutions and active front end solutions as the norm.
These drives represent large and dominant loads on their • Production of low harmonic input current & voltage
respective power systems and as such, more sophisticated • Use of capacitors either as part of or in conjunction
rectifier solutions have been in common use for some time to with their topologies.
mitigate harmonics.

2
 III. LOCAL GENERATORS – A LIMITED SUPPLY
Local generator networks are limited in more than simply their
kVA ability to supply steady state real power and their limited
short circuit capacity as compared to a utility source, which is
the usual focus. One difference arising from generator operation
is that power frequency is not constant but changes significantly
with load change. This is due to the inherent Speed vs. Power
droop characteristic of the generator. Generator voltage output
also momentarily rises and falls as the Automatic Voltage
Regulator (AVR) attempts to correct the output under transient
switching loads. Lastly, high generator source impedance (Zg)
interacts with current harmonics (Ih) from the ASD or non linear
loads to distort (V distortion = Ih * Zg) the line voltage
distribution network for other users. Each of these aspects is
covered in greater detail.
Distribution systems using “gensets” are also constrained
from the perspective of their ability to absorb power – either real
(kW) or reactive (leading). Generator suppliers, in fact, often
require minimum generator set loading (i.e. 30%) be maintained
for continuous operation. One concern for diesel engines
operating at < 30% standby rating is plugged injectors and poor
transient performance [1]. If this loading cannot be maintained
by other means, supplemental load banks are to be connected.
The selection of a local generator supply for a standard
application involving linear loads requires that the designers
address the following items either directly or indirectly when
making their selection
• Prime Mover
o Rating (kW)
o Fuel type
• Duty
o Standby Power
o Prime Power
• Altitude
• Ambient Temperature range
• Voltage
• Step up or down transformer
• Number of phases
• Frequency
• Loads
o Single phase component
o Peak loading
o Load characteristics
ƒ Inertia – low or high
ƒ Power factor
ƒ Motor
ƒ Lighting
• Additional capacity for system expansion
When gensets are selected for the more conventional lagging
power factor load types such as motors, the primary inputs to
the selection are the continuous load requirement (in terms of
kW) as well as the ability of the genset to maintain voltage and
frequency during the peak loading and inrush conditions such
as when these loads are brought on to the generator by either
direct across the line switching or reduced voltage starting.
Motors typically require that line voltage does not drop below
65% of rated during starting to insure enough load starting
torque to accelerate the motor. The approach to reduce the
voltage dip which occurs at these peak points or “steps” is to
3
increase the size of the synchronous alternator. The first
benefit related to the use of ASDs on the motor application is
that drives serve to reduce the inrush seen by the generator
during the start of the motor to often rated current or less which
in turn reduces the voltage drop while maintaining high motor
output torque and eliminating the need to increase the
generator size. Quick changes of frequency can affect
frequency sensitive loads and might appear on the platform as
a df/dt specification requirement. Adjustable speed drives also
have a greater tolerance for frequency deviations.
An additional benefit related to ASD use is that the power
factor of an ASD is often better than that of the motor which it is
controlling. Generators are rated in terms of 0.8 lagging power
factor. Fig.7 shows a low motor below pf =0.8 causes the
generator kVA size to be increased. Motors, particularly if they
are slow speed, high pole count machines, will have poor power
factors ranging from 0.7 to 0.9. Drives on the other hand
typically have AC line power factors of 0.92 (6 pulse) or higher
0.99 (18 pulse or AFE) which allows better utilization of the
generator set so that smaller units can be considered.
Starting of high inertia loads also negatively impacts
generator sets in terms of sizing. As discussed earlier, voltage
drop is a consideration in genset sizing. If a high inertia load is
involved, the combination of reduced voltage and the high
inertia leads to long start times. When start times are
lengthened, this has thermal implications to the generator set
which must sustain partial inrush conditions for long periods.
Here, once again, this may drive the need to increase the size
of the generator set to reduce heating and start times. When an
ASD is utilized, higher values of output torque are achieved at
much reduced currents counteracting the high inertia effect.
For non – linear loads, the additional considerations beyond
those already stated are as follows:
• Harmonics
• Real / Leading reactive power absorption
• Capacitors
A. Effect of Harmonics on Generators
While ASDs allow a reduction in generator size by reducing
voltage drop, the harmonics which are produced by ASDs is a
primary focus for generator suppliers who de-rate their
equipment for this reason. Typical guidelines used for harmonic
de-rating are to establish a minimum per unit generator size
based on rectifier type, use a lower temperature design or to
limit the generator reactance to less than 12%. All of these
approaches end up providing a larger alternator as a result than
the size which would be chosen if harmonics were not present.
However, in the final analysis, despite de-rating for
harmonics, a smaller genset unit is still possible with ASDs,
particularly if low harmonic rectifier solutions are employed than
would be required if ASDs were not used when ASD loads are
a relatively large % of generator rating. This is because of the
load power factor difference presented to the generator
terminals between an ASD / motor and the same motor line
connected to the generator.
An additional consideration with respect to harmonics is
that generators themselves produce harmonics. The frequency
and magnitude of these harmonics are dictated by stator pitch
design of the particular machine. A 2/3-pitch generator has
very little third harmonic current compared to other pitches,
 M AC Drive
Node Node
Ilinear / Iinrush
1 2

AC Motor Output
ASD

AC Line Input
6P, 12P, 18P M
Xd” XL IH1 or AFE

Non linear Converter DC Inverter

Lighting loads
IH2
Fig. 3 Harmonic equivalent circuit of an offshore platform
th th
however, 5 and 7 harmonics are higher. Generator open
circuit sine wave harmonic voltage distortion is due to the pitch
factor that generates the multi stepped MMF wave in the
machine. A typical V_THD is 1.35% with highest individual
th th
harmonic components of 0.94% @ 5 and 0.75% @ 7
harmonic [2]. In the event of a phase-to-neutral fault, which is
the majority of faults occurrences, there are higher fault
currents for a 2/3 pitch design than a 4/5 or 5/6 alternative. A
2/3 pitch design potentially increases system damage and
need for higher interrupting capability circuit breakers.
Generator pitch is a factor to consider if there are also tuned
circuits on the generator network supply.
B. Effect of Harmonics on Local Generator Networks
AC to DC Bus DC to AC
Filter
Fig. 4 LV six pulse rectifier with PWM VSI & dc link LC filter
The most significant platform current harmonics in Fig.3 is IH1
from ASDs. A Voltage Source Inverter (VSI) with a 6 pulse
rectifier front end and DC link L-C filter is shown in Fig.4.
Current harmonics in Fig.5 are similar for both LV VSI and MV
CSI six pulse rectifiers and have the familiar (1/harmonic
number) amplitudes. Each of these current components interact
with the generator Xd” to create substantial voltage distortion at
Node 1. Generator d–axis values are used for voltage distortion
calculation since harmonic currents are reactive by nature. Xd’’
sub transient reactance is used since harmonics are all within
one cycle. Typical Xd” values for four common generator
configurations are shown in Table 1. Because generator Xd’’ is
the source impedance and is 2 to 4 times a typical utility 5% Z
impedance, then line voltage distortion % can be equally high.

IEEE 519-1992 is often used as a harmonic guideline, Table 1 Sub Transient Reactance vs. Generator Type [4,5]
however, this standard is intended for use on utility supplies to
set a power quality standard for users to insure that the supply Type of Generator SubTransient Reactance Transient Reactance
(per unit) (per unit)
is acceptable [3]. This is not a requirement for local generators DC 0.15 0.3
since this is not a shared supply. It is permissible to have 2- pole Turbine
4 - pole Turbine
0.09
0.14
0.15
0.23
higher percentages of harmonics on local generators since Salinet Pole with Dampers 0.2 0.3
Salient Pole without Dampers 0.3 0.3
these are not regulated. IEEE 519-1992 has classified various
maximum Voltage Total Harmonic Distortion [V_THD] systems
Only two methods exist to reduce V_THD at Node 1 in Fig.3,
as: Sensitive Equipment 3%, General 5% and Dedicated
either reduce the source impedance or reduce the current
systems allowing 10%. Most offshore platforms are designed
harmonic magnitude of the non-linear loads. Source impedance
for 5%-8% V_THD. It is not unusual to permit up to 10%
can be reduced by “Over-sizing” the generator kVA to reduce
distortion on a dedicated line supply. The constraint is the
Xd” ohms or paralleling generators for a smaller equivalent
sensitivity of other equipment on the system to harmonics at
parallel combination of Xd”. The offshore platform in this paper
Node 2 in Fig.3 and heating that results in the generator itself.
used three Gas Turbine Generators (GTG) in parallel.
Harmonic current distortion from non-linear ASD and Lighting
Loads cause additional generator heating. Most offshore Amplitude
generators can tolerate 5% to 12% maximum Current Total [%] 6p: 30% - 33% I_THD
Harmonic Distortion [I_THD] without overheating. Of more
concern is that current harmonics create voltage harmonic 20 12p:
18P
9% - 11% I_THD
distortion [V_THD] with the high impedance sub-transient Removes 5 th & 7 th
15 12P
reactance Xd” of the generator at Node 1 in Fig.3, which may 18p:
6P
6 pulse 10 6P 3.5% - 4% I_THD
supply other loads. Likewise, V_THD is a concern at step down Removes 5 th & 7 th,
transformer secondary Node 2 with p.u. leakage reactance XL. 12 12P
pulse 5 11 th & 13 th
18P
Fluorescent lighting or High Pressure Sodium (HPS) gas 18 pulse 0
AFE: 2% - 3% I_THD
5th
7th
11th
13th
17th
19th
23rd
25th

discharge lights are non-linear loads and may be a significant

rd
portion of platform kVA loading. Fluorescent lights have high 3 Harmonic [h]
harmonic current component while HPS lights have a typical
th Fig. 5 Current I_THD of 6 pulse,12 pulse,18 pulse & AFE
20% of 5 harmonic current content for IH2 in Fig.3.

4
 28 operation on a 5% impedance source. Operation of rectifier
30% Xd''
26 salient pole configurations on generator high Z sources has shown that
without dampers
24
25% Xd''
current distortion I_THD goes down from Fig. 5 but V_THD
goes up [8]. Both LV and MV AFE’s have I_THD values in the
Voltage Distortion [ % V_THD ]

22
20% Xd''
20 salient pole 2.5% - 3% range, but also have the capability to maintain
with dampers
18 15% Xd'' operation in the presence of line voltage dips. Both LV and MV
16
4 - pole
turbine
18 pulse techniques and AFE’s also improve the power factor to
14 10% Xd''
~ 0.99, which can allow additional loading on the generator to
12 2 - pole
turbine
be added. Passive or active filter units could also be applied to
10 Dedicated contain harmonic currents to Node 2,but the application of these
8
5 % XL
Utility Xfmr
Maximum is beyond the scope of this paper [9].
Tolerable
6
General
4 C. Voltage Distortion of Load-ASD-Generator Network
Sensitive
2
0
Voltage distortion was simulated at Node 1 for a direct Load-
0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 ASD-Generator System in Fig.3 with XL=0 up. V_THD is a
Generator kVA Oversize Factor function of ASDs current harmonics using 6p, 12p, 18p or AFE
(a) ASD using 6 pulse front end front ends and the 4 types of generator Xd” from Table 1. The
20
x-axis “Oversize Factor [OF]“ in Fig.6 is the pu ratio of ASD
19 30% Xd''
salient pole
Load kVA to application generator kVA size. Results of Fig.6
18
17
without dampers are applicable to a MV or LV system since impedances and
16 current harmonics are all in a per unit system. The 8% V_THD
Voltage Distortion [ % V_THD ]

25% Xd''
15 “Maximum Tolerable” limit line in Fig. 6 is constrained by
14
13 20% Xd'' magnetics / capacitors used in the ASD itself and by a
salient pole
12 with dampers maximum threshold where connected equipment is affected. It
11
10 15% Xd'' Dedicated is also seen that using ASDs with lower I_THD harmonic
4 - pole
9 turbine current has a profound effect on the generator oversize required
8 Maximum
7 10% Xd'' Tolerable to meet IEEE General 5% V_THD classification.
6 2 - pole
turbine
5
4
General
Fig. 6a shows results for a 6 pulse rectifier. The 5% XL line
3 5 % XL
Utility Xfmr
Sensitive represents connection to a utility infinite bus through a 5% Z
2 transformer. Even at 1:1 load to transformer sizing the V_THD
1
0 is only 8%. Typically transformers are oversized so that at
0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 OF=2 IEEE 519 “General” limits of 5% V_THD is met. This
Generator kVA Oversize Factor agrees with historical field installations where line harmonic
(b) ASD using 12 pulse front end voltage issues are not as severe on utility connected networks.
11
The GTG with 10% Xd’’ shows unacceptable 17.8% V_THD at
OF=1. However, if as a rule of thumb an OF = 2 to 3 is used
10 Dedicated
30% Xd''
salient pole
then 6% to 8% V_THD results in acceptable operation. The
9 without dampers slide also shows as Xd’’ increases to the upper limit of GTG
Voltage Distortion [ % V_THD ]

8 25% Xd'' Maximum

Tolerable
design, an OF of 3 to 4 is needed. For dedicated remote loads
7 20% Xd''
locations such as remote oil fields or water / waste water sites
salient pole the best solution may be to oversize a single generator. For
6 with dampers

15% Xd''
offshore platforms it might be best to parallel two smaller kva
General
5 4 - pole
turbine
GTG when Xd’’ =15% for an equivalent Xd’’ =7.5%. Then each
4
10% Xd''
GTG would only need an OF = 1.5 to reach a V_THD of 8%. In
3 2 - pole Sensitive a similar discussion the salient pole generators with Xd’’ values
turbine

2
of 20% to 30% need an OF = 4 to 6 to reach V_THD of 8%.
5 % XL
Utility Xfmr However these requirements start to conflict with other design
1
issues as 30% minimum load for stability , etc.. These generator
0 types are probably best used by paralleling generators and
0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7
Generator kVA Oversize Factor bringing them on line as load is needed. Economically, it
highlights that addressing the harmonic issue separately with a
(c) ASD using 18 pulse front end or AFE
lower THD rectifier solution and smaller generator may be a
Fig. 6 Voltage distortion at Node 1 for Load-ASD-Generator better overall solution.
System with ASD using 6p, 12p, 18p or AFE
Fig. 6b shows results for a 12 pulse rectifier. V_THD issues are
ASD harmonics can be minimized using multi-pulse now drastically reduced if the ASD is a major load of the
techniques, such as 12 pulse fully isolated phase shifting generator network. This agrees with historical field offshore
transformers as is commonly used now on platforms [6] or 18 installations where 12 pulse converters have been used to solve
pulse techniques available in both LV and MV topologies [7]. line harmonic voltage issues on generator connected networks.
The GTG with 15% Xd’’ shows V_THD of < 8% when OF is only
The reduced I_THD for these topologies is shown in Fig.5 for
1.5x. This OF is now in the realm of needed generator de-rating

5
 0.8 0.9 0.95 1.0 0.95 0.9 pf = 0.8
for current harmonic issues anyway. For salient pole generators
with high Xd’’ of 20% to 30%, the required OF for V_THD <8% 0.7
is 2 to 3, in comparison of 4 to 6 for 6 pulse rectifiers. Line 1.0
Stator
power factor is improved from 0.92 (6 pulse) to 0.97 (12 pulse) 0.9 Stability Engine
allowing additional generator loading [7]. Additionally, generator 0.8

Per Unit kW
0.6
de-rating for current harmonics is reduced with the 12p rectifier. 0.7
0.6 0.5
Fig. 6c shows results for an 18 pulse rectifier or AFE. V_THD 0.5
0.4
issues are essentially eliminated if the ASD is a major load of 0.4
the generator network. Even a GTG with 15% Xd’’ potentially Rotor 0.3
0.3
meets IEEE 519 “General” V_THD limits of 5% at its terminals 0.2
0.2
without any generator oversize de-rate factor allowing other
0.1 0.1
users to direct connect to the generator network. Generator de- Excitation
0.0 0.0
rating due to current harmonic issues is also eliminated allowing 1.0 0.9 0.8 0.7 0.6 0.5 0.4 0.3 0.2 0.1 0.0 0.1 0.2 0.3 0.4 0.5 0.6 0.7 0.8 0.9 1.0
an extra degree of freedom in generator platform design. For Import [ Lead ] Per Unit kVar Export [ Lag ]
salient pole generators with high Xd’’ of 20% to 30%, the
required OF for V_THD < 5% is 1.5 to 2. Line power factor is Fig. 7 Typical generator reactive capability curve [12]
improved from 0.92 (6 pulse) to near unity, allowing additional
generator loading. The 18 pulse design is only slighter larger as Voltage Regulator (AVR) for the particular synchronous
that required for a 12 pulse design. The AFE due to its active generator combination. The AVR controls the synchronous
switching capability can possibly have a smaller line filter generator field excitation and varies the field current to regulate
physical size than 60 Hz multi pulse magnetic designs. The the generator voltage output. Field excitation is increased to
AFE can also be of a transformer-less design to minimize produce an increase in the generator output voltage and
physical footprint. An added benefit of AFE’s is the ability to decreased to prevent an over-voltage condition beyond the
ride through critical loads under line dips and frequency rating limits of the generator. When the reactive power exceeds
variations as is the norm for offshore generator platforms where the limit shown on the attached curve, the AVR is no longer
loads are constantly being switched on and off. able to regulate the output voltage because it has reached
either the upper or lower limit of field excitation. Typically, an
D. Voltage Distortion of Load-ASD-Xfmr-Generator System AVR is able to maintain regulation when the leading reactive
power does not exceed 20% of the alternator rating; however,
A similar set of Fig. 6 graphs for the case of a Load - ASD - the reactive capability for each machine is different and varies
Transformer connection to a generator could be generated. even from the same supplier. For this reason, the curve for the
Table 2 simulation results with Xfmr added however show only particular generator should be reviewed in all cases since this
minor improvement in generator terminal V_THD performance. varies from depending on the generator set.
The source of leading kVAR’s on the system will potentially
Table 2 V_THD for Load - 6 Pulse ASD - Xfmr - Generator come from power factor correction capacitors and harmonic
GENERATOR Generator Voltage THD% using 6 Pulse Converter
filters to line side capacitors, which are inherent to the drive
OVERSIZE Xd'' Xd'' Xd'' Xd'' Xd'' Xd'' topology [10]. A further capacitive consideration when applying
FACTOR 5% 10% 15% 20% 25% 30% ASD’s are DC link capacitors which do not necessarily
1 8.0 (6.4) 13.9 (10.8) 17.4 (14.4) 20.6 (16.7) 23.3 (18.8) 25.5 (20.6)
2 4.9 (3.6) 8.2 (6.5) 10.8 (8.9) 13.4 (11.0) 15.7 (12.7) 17.4 (14.4)
contribute to leading reactive power but either utilize a pre-
3 3.5 (2.5) 6.0 (4.6) 8.2 (6.6) 10.0 (8.1) 12.2 (9.7) 13.4 (11.0) charge circuit or an active front end to control the rate of charge
4 2.7 (1.9) 4.9 (3.6) 6.7 (5.2) 8.3 (6.6) 9.7 (7.8) 10.9 (8.9) for this topology.
5 2.3 (1.6) 4.1 (3.0) 5.6 (4.3) 7.2 (5.5) 8.1 (6.6) 9.9 (7.6)
6 1.9 (1.3) 3.5 (2.5) 4.9 (3.6) 5.9 (4.7) 7.6 (5.7) 8.7 (6.6) The impact of DC link capacitance and pre-charge circuits
KEY: Generator alone ( Generator plus 1 pu rated 5.75% xfmr ) has been discussed in detail in an earlier paper [11].

E. Generator Constraints: Real / Leading Power Absorption IV. ADDITIONAL CONSIDERATIONS

The limited ability for the generator to absorb real power is a
constraint if regenerative braking is an application requirement.
With active front end rectifiers, it is possible to take kinetic
power from the load back to the supply by firing the rectifier at
the appropriate angle. If the ASD is large relative to the
generator and there are no other loads or the generator, the
ability to brake will need to be severely restricted, otherwise the
generator could be put into an over-speed condition. A rough
guideline used is that approximately 10% of the generator
capability can be taken back without risk to the genset.
The ability of a generator to absorb (leading) reactive power
is also a limiting factor for the generator. The ability for a
genset to cope with a leading condition is defined by its reactive
capability curve. This curve shown in Fig. 7 provides the
capability of the stator and more importantly, the Automatic
A. Startup Sequence of Operation
A further consideration in generator sizing is the sequence in
which loads are brought on to the system. Obviously, if all the
loads on the genset were to be brought on at once, this would
require that the generator be sized accordingly. Practically
speaking, this is not going to be the case. Within the
constraints of the process or distribution system requirements,
the best practice even with conventional linear loads is to set
the system control logic so as to bring on the largest and most
demanding loads as early as possible so that established loads
do not negatively impact the starting capability any sooner than
necessary.
In cases where large non-linear load components exist as
well as possibly associated capacitive loads, further
consideration would be to sequence the system control so as to

6
 best work with these specific load types. Examples of this
would be to have loads on the system which would potentially
absorb harmonics and capacitive component before energizing
the non-linear application. For capacitive components, this
would also mean designing the scheme so as to remove this
load when the offsetting lagging loads is no longer present.
B. Load Diversity
In addition to being of limited capacity, the loads which
occur on a local generator system will also not be as diverse as
that on utility. The importance of this fact is that having no load
conditions or other operating restrictions is a function of load
diversity. For example, leaving capacitors connected to the
system is possible and perhaps desirable when there are other
inductive lagging loads which would offset this leading reactive
power. In those cases where the load is dominated by the non-
linear component or in certain operating scenarios, this may not
be possible. For these instances, how the loads are controlled
or sequenced must be considered such as capacitive loads
which need to be removed from the system when there is no
offsetting load. A specific example of such a scenario is
discussed in Section V.
C. Fixed Speed Motors, Transformers & Cables
Rectifier current harmonics back into the network also require
a study of ASD input cable and transformer K-factor de-rating
[6]. Voltage distortion on the network from non-linear loads may
also affect direct connected fixed speed induction motors. The
Harmonic Voltage Factor [HVF} in Fig. 8 is similar to voltage
total harmonic distortion criteria and is used to determine motor
load current de-rate based on the magnitude of only n=odd
harmonic multiples [6]. A HVF < 3% requires no de-rate for
standard induction motors. Direct connected explosion proof
motors on the generator network are especially sensitive to
HVF > 2% and should be checked with the manufacturer.
1.05
1.00
0.95
0.90
Derating Factor
0.85
0.80
0.75
0.70
0.65
0.60
0.55
0.50
0 0.01 0.02 0.03 0.04 0.05 0.06 0.07 0.08 0.09
Harmonic Voltage Factor
Fig. 8 Harmonic voltage factor dearte for direct connect
motors per NEMA MG-1, part 30, Section 30.1.2.1
V. OFFSHORE APPLICATION EXAMPLE
During commission efforts for a deep water offshore platform
in the Gulf of Mexico, there was an electrical event where fuses
cleared on potential transformers connected to the 6.9 KV Bus
as shown in the single line diagram shown on Fig. 9.
The incident occurred with one of the three normal power GTG
packages powering up only the 6.9kV switchgear and running
one 400HP 6.6kV motor in addition to one ASD controlled 6.6
KV export pump motors unloaded. The GTG tripped off line
due to an unrelated issue.
Loading on the 6.9 KV Bus was (1) 4500 hp export pump
motor and (1) 400 HP across-line motor. No other loads were
present.
1. The export pump motor was operating via an active front
end ASD which was uncoupled from the load. The LFC
(Line Filter Capacitor) on the ASD was rated at 2000
KVAR
2. The 400 HP motor was reported operating at light load.
During a normal shutdown, the ASD ramps the motor to a
stop. The input circuit breaker feeding the ASD can be
configured to remain closed or open upon the motor reaching
zero speed via the ASD parameters. The stored energy
dissipated by the LFC is a DC Voltage. Discharge current and
time is dependent upon the peak charge of the LFC and the
impedance of the discharge path. The lower the impedance, the
shorter the time for discharge to occur and the higher the
current will be. If the input circuit breaker opens, the stored
energy of the LFC is discharged through the snubber network of
the Rectifier SGCT’s. If the input circuit remains closed the
stored energy is discharged using the connected system
impedance.
The original control philosophy configuration for the input
circuit breaker was to remain closed. Operator start / stop
commands from the process control system was directly to the
ASD for process control. There are three (3) 4500 hp export
pump motors controlled by ASDs.
With the input circuit breaker remaining closed and with the
generator supply being turned off, the stored DC energy of the
LFC found a path of least resistance through the primaries of
the various PT’s. If another path of lower resistance were
available, such as distribution transformer primary or other
loads on the system, the energy would be dissipated through
these loads instead. In this case, the only options were the 10
ohm snubber resistors (6 in series), the 400 HP motor, the TSN
(until the fuses cleared) and the PT’s. It is believed that the
2000 KVAR line filter capacitor, charged to 6900 V, found the
PT primaries (at about 2-3 ohms) as the path of least
resistance, until the fuses cleared.
Through investigation and testing into the event it was
confirmed that the GTG tripping caused the lightly loaded active
front end ASD line filter capacitor to discharge back into the
electrical system resulting in all the connected 6.9 KV PT fuses
0.1 0.11 0.12 to clear. It was also noted that the input breaker configuration
of remaining closed at all times even with the ASD off line would
put 2000 KVAR capacitance (possible total of 6000 KVAR with
all ASD’s offline) onto the electrical system. This could possibly
affect and / or damage the GTG exciter control packages and
KVAR Load sharing operations. The input breaker configuration
was changed so that the breaker was only closed during motor /
drive operation. The start / stop command to the ASD allows
the ASD to control the input breaker.
7
 Fig. 9 Single Line for Offshore Platform
The following recommendations were provided and completed.
1. Increase the TSN fuses temporarily from 2E to 3E or 4E
(depending on availability), but upgrade the TSN to higher
activation level MOVs at a later date as time permits.
2. Verify the ASD input breaker configuration is set to open
upon the motor stopping
3. When other normal system loads are present (e.g.
distribution transformer) we believe that this type of event
is unlikely to occur.
VI. SUMMARY
Sizing of generator sets requires a thorough evaluation of the
system demands for steady state as well as peak loading and
inrush conditions.
AC adjustable speed drives bring a number of benefits relative
to generator sizing and operation.
When non-linear loads such as AC ASD’s are part of the
connected load, additional factors which affect genset sizing are
harmonics and power factor.
Rules of thumb for estimating V_THD as a function of AC line
side converter topology, generator Z, number of parallel
gensets or single kVa oversize factor was given. Low Harmonic
ASD supplies have a significant impact on reducing generator
8
kVA over sizing.
Local generator systems require additional system design
considerations than those when connected on a large utility.
Synchronous generators have very limited capability to absorb
either real or reactive power (leading) as well as harmonics.
Generators themselves produce harmonics. The frequency and
level of these harmonics are determined by the pitch of the
generator.
VII. RECOMMENDATIONS
The single line for the system should be established and load
requirements defined prior to generator selection.
Operating scenarios and sequence of operation should be
documented and reviewed with respect to the various
contingencies which can occur. This would include
commissioning when the system is not fully functional and
therefore operating in a non standard mode, as was the case in
the example given.
Engage the drive and generator supplier in system discussions
as early as possible in the project. Adjustments to optimize the
overall system can then be accommodated during the
manufacturing cycle on the part of both the generator and drive
suppliers.
 VIII. CONCLUSION
Non- linear loads such as AC adjustable speed drives require
additional consideration when applied on local generator
supplies. The limited capacity and high reactance of these local
sources exaggerate effects which occur on all systems but are
greatly lessened on higher capacity, more diverse supplies.
This illustrates that greater attention to design and
implementation are required. In the particular case given, the
discharge of the capacitors inherent to the drive topology found
that the easiest discharge path was through potential
transformer circuits causing the PT fuses to operate. This
situation was specific to commissioning, determined to be a
natural phenomenon once the situation was reviewed and
easily corrected once understood by changing the operation of
the drive input device as per the recommended guideline
provided in this paper. The offshore installation is currently in
operation without issue.
IX. REFERENCES
[1] G. Olsen, “Critical data for generator sizing, Electrical
Construction and Maintenance (EC&M) , Nov 1, 1996
[2] J. Lorenz, J. Fowler, “Synchronous generator sub transient
reactance prediction using transient circuit coupled
electromagnetic analysis and odd periodic symmetry”,
Kato Engineering report, North Mankato, Man
[3] ANSI/IEEE Std 519-1992, IEEE Recommended practices
and requirement for harmonic control in electric power
systems, New York, NY, IEEE Press 1992
[4] IEC 60909-2, Short circuit currents in three phase a.c.
systems; Part 2 Data of electrical equipment for short
circuit current calculation
[5] W.Carey, Short Circuit Calculations, A Handbook to
accompany the short circuit Calculation Program MSHA
Approval and Certification Center, Mining Safety and
Health Administration, USA , Jan. 2006
[6] Guidance notes on control of harmonics in electrical
power systems, American Bureau of Shipping, May 2006
ABS Plaza 16855 Northchase Drive, Houston, TX , USA
[7] G. Skibinski, N. Guskov, D. Zhou, “Cost effective Multi-
pulse Transformer Solutions for harmonic Mitigation in Ac
Drives”, IEEE 2003 Industry Application Society Conf.
[8] R. Hoadley, S. Kennedy, G. Skibinski. “Comparison of AC
to DC rectifier topologies operating on various power
distribution networks”, 2008 PCIC Conf record.
[9] R. Hoadley, “Comparison of methods for mitigation of line
disturbances due to PWM AC drives”, 2005 PCIC Conf.
[10] A. H. Hoevenaars, M. Fahrney, M. James, M. McGraw
“Design Considerations When Applying Various ASD
Topologies to Meet Harmonic Compliance”
[11] R. H. Paes, G. Seggewiss, T. McDaniel, “Application of
Medium Voltage Adjustable Speed Drives on Generator Fed
Supplies, IEEE PCIC Conf Record , 2004
[12] R. W. Bruck, B.Sc, B.E, H. K. Messerle, M.Eng.Sc,
B.E.E., “The Capability of Alternators”
X. ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
The authors would like to acknowledge the contributions of
Russ Kerkman, Distinguished Engineering Fellow, Rockwell
Automation, Mequon, Wisconsin.
XI. VITA
Kurt Concienne received his undergraduate degree in
Electrical Engineering from Lamar University, Beaumont,TX in
1989. He began working as an I&E engineer for Chevron at
their Port Arthur, TX refinery as the facility electrical engineer
at the Chevron Chemical plant in Baytown, TX working in
maintenance and engineering, progressing to plant Electrical
Section Supervisor. Currently he is working in Chevron's
Engineering Technology Center as an electrical engineering
power systems specialist, and Technical Team Leader.
Terry Rainey received a B.S.(1982) in Math from University
of Southern Mississippi, a B.S. (1990), and M.S.(1995) in
Electrical Engineering from Mississippi State University. He
began working with Gulf Oil/Chevron in 1982 with Production
Operations. He has worked as a Facilities / Project Electrical
Engineer in both upstream and downstream business units at
domestic US and international locations. He is currently the
Lead Electrical Engineer on Chevron's deepwater Big Foot
project for the Gulf of Mexico. He is a retired LCDR from the
USNR Engineering Duty Officer community.
Gary L. Skibinski received B.S.E.E.(1976), M.S.E.E. (1980)
from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, and Ph.D.
degree (1992) from University of Wisconsin-Madison. From
1976 -1980, he was an Electrical Engineer working on naval
nuclear power at Eaton. From 1981-1985 he worked on Dc &
AC servo controllers. During the Ph.D. program, he was a
Consultant for UPS and switch-mode power supply products
at R.T.E. Corp. He is currently Engineering Fellow at Rockwell
Automation, Mequon, WI.. Current interests include power
semiconductors, power electronic applications, and high-
frequency high-power converter circuits for ac drives. Dr.
Skibinski holds nineteen U.S. patents, published over eighty
articles in professional journals/conferences with eighteen
being prize awards and is a registered PE in Wisconsin. He is
chairman of IEEE Std. 518 Guide for the Installation of
Electrical Equipment to Minimize Electrical Noise.
Richard Paes received his degree in electrical/electronic
engineering technology from Conestoga College, in Kitchener,
Ontario Canada in 1981. Since graduation, he has been
employed with Rockwell Automation in Cambridge, Ontario. His
primary roles include the application of various motor starting
methods, including medium voltage drives, for medium voltage
induction and synchronous motors. He is a senior member of
IEEE, a committee chair for the 2001 PCIC conference in
Toronto, currently Chair of the PCIC Transportation
Subcommittee, Chair of the IEEE 1566 Large Drive Standard
and past chair of the 2007 Calgary and 2008 Edmonton IEEE
IAS Mega Projects committee. Mr. Paes is a Certified
Engineering Technologist in the Province of Ontario.
Stefan A Zak received his degree in Mechanical Engineering
from the University of Illinois in Champaign-Urbana in 1984.
Since his graduation he’s been employed in the industrial
automation and power control market in various sales and
marketing roles. He has worked for Rockwell Automation in
various filed sales and marketing roles for 23 years. The last six
years has been involved with sales and business development
of motor control centers and variable frequency drive