Increasing the efficiency of induction generator in small hydro power plant for varying river flow rate

Abstract

This paper deals with improving efficiency of a small hydro power plant that not operates in nominal power, but in lower power. Efficiency is lower in this low power operation than in nominal power operation since constant no-load losses. These no-load losses can be varied by changing stator voltage and it may produce higher efficiency. Relation between efficiency, power operation and stator voltage are presented and the highest possible efficiency is highlighted. This process is made for typical 15 kW small hydro power plant with horizontal Francis turbine. Finally, there is comparison between original efficiency of generator and improved efficiency with corresponding stator voltage and one year power savings.