A Power System Stabilizer (PSS) is a control device used in electric power systems to improve the dynamic stability of the system, particularly during transient events such as faults, sudden load changes, or disturbances. Dynamic stability refers to the ability of the power system to maintain synchronous operation and recover to a steady-state condition after a disturbance.
A PSS primarily focuses on enhancing the damping of low-frequency oscillations that can occur in a power system. These oscillations are usually caused by the interaction between the mechanical and electrical components of the system, including generators, turbines, and the associated control systems. Insufficient damping of these oscillations can lead to unstable or poorly damped system responses, potentially resulting in large and sustained deviations from the desired operating conditions.
Here's how a Power System Stabilizer improves dynamic stability:
Signal Injection: A PSS injects a supplementary control signal into the automatic voltage regulator (AVR) or excitation system of a generator. This control signal is designed to counteract the oscillatory behavior and enhance the damping of the low-frequency oscillations.
Feedback Control: The PSS receives input signals from various sensors and measurements in the power system, such as generator speed, electrical frequency, and voltage deviations. These signals provide information about the current operating conditions and the deviations from the desired state.
Signal Processing and Calculation: The PSS processes the input signals using control algorithms that are designed to detect the presence of low-frequency oscillations and determine the appropriate control action needed to dampen them. These algorithms often involve proportional-integral-derivative (PID) controllers, lead-lag compensation, and other advanced control techniques.
Adjustment of Excitation System: Based on the calculated control action, the PSS adjusts the excitation system of the generator. The excitation system controls the field current of the generator's rotor, which in turn affects the generator's voltage and reactive power output. By adjusting the excitation system, the PSS can influence the damping of oscillations.
Damping Enhancement: The control action applied by the PSS helps increase the damping of the low-frequency oscillations, thereby improving the transient stability of the power system. The enhanced damping reduces the amplitude and duration of oscillations, allowing the system to recover more quickly from disturbances and maintain stable operation.
It's important to note that the design and tuning of a Power System Stabilizer are critical to its effectiveness. Improper tuning can lead to inadequate or excessive damping, which may worsen system stability instead of improving it. PSSs are typically designed and tested using simulation tools to ensure they provide the desired level of dynamic stability enhancement without causing other operational issues.