Hybrid simulation of water turbine governors

Abstract

Water-turbine governors have a potentially important role in reducing the vulnerability of electrical supply and distribution networks to transients. This paper describes a hybrid computer simulation study, the aim of which was to investigate the effect of different types of governor on the dynamic performance of a water-turbine generator. The modelling of the pipeline, turbine, relief valve, and governors is discussed in detail, together with a description of site test procedures used for the validation of the simulation. The performance of the system with a governor developed from the simulation study is compared with a more conventional mechanical temporary-droop type of governor. The results show both a significantly increased speed of response and an improved margin of stability within the system.