GEH-6794

EX2100e Excitation Control

Operation Guide

Sept 2017

GE Internal
 These instructions do not purport to cover all details or variations in equipment, nor to provide for every possible
contingency to be met during installation, operation, and maintenance. The information is supplied for informational
purposes only, and GE makes no warranty as to the accuracy of the information included herein. Changes, modifications,
and/or improvements to equipment and specifications are made periodically and these changes may or may not be
reflected herein. It is understood that GE may make changes, modifications, or improvements to the equipment referenced
herein or to the document itself at any time. This document is intended for trained personnel familiar with the GE products
referenced herein.
GE may have patents or pending patent applications covering subject matter in this document. The furnishing of this
document does not provide any license whatsoever to any of these patents.
GE Internal – This document contains information that belongs to the General Electric Company and is furnished to its
customer solely to assist that customer in the installation, testing, operation, and/or maintenance of the equipment
described. This document or the information it contains shall not be reproduced in whole or in part or disclosed to any
third party without the express written consent of GE.
GE provides the following document and the information included therein as is and without warranty of any kind,
expressed or implied, including but not limited to any implied statutory warranty of merchantability or fitness for
particular purpose.
For further assistance or technical information, contact the nearest GE Sales or Service Office, or an authorized GE Sales
Representative.

Revised:
Issued: Sept 2017

Copyright © 2017 General Electric Company, All rights reserved.

* Indicates a trademark of General Electric Company and/or its subsidiaries.

All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners.

We would appreciate your feedback about our documentation.

Please send comments or suggestions to [email protected]

GE Internal
 Acronyms and Abbreviations
HX2500, HX1200, HX800, HX300
SCR sizes in EX2100e H-variant control systems
42mm, 53mm, 77mm, 100mm
SCR sizes in EX2100e S-variant control systems
ac Alternating current
ACOM Analog common
AVR Automatic or ac voltage regulator
B2B Back to Back starting
C Protection controller in a redundant system
CCOM Control common
CHM Collector Health Monitor
COI Control Operator Interface
CT Current transformer
DACA AC to DC converter in control power supply
DFE Digital Front-end
dc Direct current
DCOM Digital common
CSLA Compact Serial Link Expander Board
EAUD EAUX High-speed Contactor Option Board
EAUX EX2100e Auxiliary Function Interface Board
EBAC EX2100e Bridge AC Feedback Board
EBRG EX2100e Bridge Interface Board
ECTX EX2100e CT Expansion Option Board
EDEX Exciter De-excitation Board
EGD Ethernet Global Data
EDFF EX2100e DC Feedback Board
EDIS EX2100e Power Distribution
ESWA GE Industrial Ethernet Switch with 8 ports
ESYS EX2100e System Interface Board
EXAM Exciter Ground Detector Attenuator Board
HSLA High-speed Serial Link Interface Board
HSSL High-speed Serial Link
GPA Gate Pulse Amplifier
HMI Human-machine Interface
I/O Input and output
LAN Local area network
LCP Local Control Panel or local Touchscreen
LED Light-emitting diode
level H High-level signal
level H(S) High-level signal, special handling
level L Low-level signal

GEH-6794 Operation Guide 3

GE Internal
 level M Medium-level signal level
LOTO Lockout / tagout
P Power signal
level P(S) Power signal, special handling
M1 Primary controller
M2 Backup controller
OEL Overexcitation Limit control
P125 Positive side of 125 V dc power supply
PCM Power Conversion Module
PCT Power Current Transformer
PLC Programmable logic controller
PMG Permanent magnet generator
PPE Personal protective equipment
PPT Power Potential Transformer
PRV Peak reverse voltage
PSS Power System Stabilizer
PT Potential transformer
R125 Return side of 125 V dc power supply
RFCT Sensors for CHM
SCR Silicon-controlled rectifier (thyristor)
SFC Static Frequency Converter
SHCOM Shield common
SM Synchronous Machine
SVS Shaft Voltage Suppression
TMR Triple Modular Redundant
UCSB Universal Stand-alone Controller Version B
UDH Unit Data Highway
UEL Underexcitation Limit control
VAR Volt-amperes reactive
WBU Warm backup

4 GEH-6794 EX2100e Excitation Control

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 Related Documents
Document
Document Title
(Part) Number
EX2100e Excitation Control 100 mm, 77 mm, 53 mm, and 42 mm Thyristor Systems Product Description GEA-S1302
EX2100 and EX2100e Excitation Control Power System Stabilizer User Guide GEH-6676
ToolboxST User Guide for Mark Controls Platforms GEH-6700
EX2100e Excitation Control 77 mm, 53 mm, and 42 mm Thyristor Systems Installation and Startup Guide GEH-6780
EX2100e Excitation Control User Guide GEH-6781
EX2100e Excitation Control 77 mm, 53 mm, and 42 mm Thyristor Systems Maintenance Guide GEH-6782
EX2100e Excitation Control 100 mm Thyristor Systems Maintenance Guide GEH-6785
EX2100e Excitation Control 100 mm Thyristor Systems Maintenance and Troubleshooting Guide GEH-6786
EX2100e Excitation Control Digital Front-end Thyristor Systems and Separated Controls Application Guide GEH-6787
EX2100e Excitation Control Diagnostic Alarms for Thyristor Systems Troubleshooting Guide GEH-6789
EX2100e H-variant Excitation Control User Guide GEH-6791
EX2100e H-variant Excitation Control for Thyristor Systems Maintenance Guide GEH-6792
EX2100e H-variant Excitation Control for Thyristor Systems Installation and Startup Guide GEH-6793
Receiving, Handling and Storage of GE Drive and Excitation Control Equipment GEI-100256
De-excitation Control Board IS200EDEX_B Instruction Guide GEI-100466
EX2100 and EX2100e Excitation Control Exciter Attenuation Module (EXAM) Instruction Guide GEI-100509
Mark VIe Controllers UCCx and UCSx Instruction Guide GEI-100665
EX2100e Excitation Control DC Fanned Feedback (EDFF) Board Instruction Guide GEI-100770
EX2100e Excitation Control System I/O Interface (ESYS) Module Instruction Guide GEI-100772
EX2100e Excitation Control Bridge AC Feedback (EBAC) Board Instruction Guide GEI-100774
EX2100e Excitation Control CT Expansion (ECTX) Board Instruction Guide GEI-100775
EX2100e Excitation Control Bridge Interface (EBRG) Board Instruction Guide GEI-100776
EX2100e Excitation Control Power Distribution (EDIS) Instruction Guide GEI-100777
EX2100e Excitation Control High-speed Contactor Driver (EAUD) Board Instruction Guide GEI-100778
EX2100e Excitation Control Auxiliary Interface (EAUX) Board Instruction Guide GEI-100779
High-speed Serial Link Interface (HSLA) Board Instruction Guide GEI-100782
EX2100e Excitation Control 100 mm, 77 mm, 53 mm, and 42 mm Thyristor Systems Application Guide GEI-100783
EX2100e Excitation and LS2100e Static Starter Control Systems Touchscreen Local Operator Interface
GEI-100787
Instruction Guide
EX2100e Excitation Compact High-speed Serial Link Expansion (CSLA) Board Instruction Guide GEI-100788

GEH-6794 Operation Guide 5

GE Internal
 Safety Symbol Legend

Indicates a procedure, condition, or statement that, if not

strictly observed, could result in personal injury or death.
Warning

Indicates a procedure or condition that, if not strictly

observed, could result in damage to or destruction of
equipment.
Warning

Indicates a procedure, condition or statement that should be

strictly followed to improve these applications.
Warning

6 GEH-6794 EX2100e Excitation Control

GE Internal
 Control System Warnings

To prevent personal injury or damage to equipment, follow all

equipment safety procedures, Lockout Tagout (LOTO), and
site safety procedures as indicated by Employee Health and
Safety (EHS) guidelines.
Warning

This equipment contains a potential hazard of electric shock,

burn, or death. Only personnel who are adequately trained
and thoroughly familiar with the equipment and the
instructions should install, operate, or maintain this
Warning equipment.

Isolation of test equipment from the equipment under test

presents potential electrical hazards. If the test equipment
cannot be grounded to the equipment under test, the test
equipment’s case must be shielded to prevent contact by
personnel.
To minimize hazard of electrical shock or burn, approved
Warning grounding practices and procedures must be strictly
followed.

To prevent personal injury or equipment damage caused by

equipment malfunction, only adequately trained personnel
should modify any programmable machine.
Warning

Always ensure that applicable standards and regulations are

followed and only properly certified equipment is used as a
critical component of a safety system. Never assume that the
Human-machine Interface (HMI) or the operator will close a
Warning safety critical control loop.

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 Contents
CONTENTS .............................................................................................................................................................................. 8
1 OVERVIEW ................................................................................................................................................................... 11
1.1 SAFETY PRECAUTIONS ....................................................................................................................................................... 12
1.1.1 Safety Requirements ............................................................................................................................................... 13
1.1.2 Requirement to Maintenance Personnel ................................................................................................................ 13
1.1.3 Requirements for Worker Protection ...................................................................................................................... 13
1.1.4 Lockout-Tagout Requirement ................................................................................................................................. 15
1.1.5 Grounding Bars ....................................................................................................................................................... 16
1.1.6 Arc Flash Events ...................................................................................................................................................... 17
1.1.7 Digital Front-end, Kits, and Separated Controls Cabinet Applications ................................................................... 18
1.1.8 Additional Safety Reminders .................................................................................................................................. 19
1.2 PREPARING THE SYSTEM FOR OPERATION ............................................................................................................................. 20
1.2.1 Electrical Checking .................................................................................................................................................. 20
1.2.2 Downloading the System Software ........................................................................................................................ 21
1.2.3 Downloading the Parameters ................................................................................................................................. 21
2 CONTROLS AND INDICATORS....................................................................................................................................... 23
2.1 LOCAL/REMOTE CONTROL................................................................................................................................................. 23
2.2 M1 CONTROLLER / M2 CONTROLLER CHANGEOVER .............................................................................................................. 24
2.3 AUTO/MANUAL MODE (SINGLE OR REDUNDANT CONFIGURATION) .......................................................................................... 25
2.4 CHANGEOVER MANAGEMENT ............................................................................................................................................ 26
2.4.1 In Single Configuration ........................................................................................................................................... 26
2.4.2 In Redundant Configuration ................................................................................................................................... 27
2.5 REGULATION MODES IN AUTO MODE.................................................................................................................................. 29
2.5.1 Voltage Control Mode ............................................................................................................................................ 29
2.5.2 Reactive Power Control Mode ................................................................................................................................ 29
2.5.3 Power Factor Control Mode.................................................................................................................................... 30
2.5.4 Generator and Grid for Active and Reactive Power Measurement ........................................................................ 30
2.6 REGULATION MODES IN MANUAL MODE ............................................................................................................................. 31
2.6.1 Field Voltage Regulator .......................................................................................................................................... 31
2.6.2 Manual Field Current Regulator ............................................................................................................................. 31
2.7 SET POINT RAISE \ SET POINT LOWER COMMANDS ................................................................................................................ 32
2.8 RAMP SEQUENCE OR LINE CHARGING .................................................................................................................................. 34
2.8.1 Soft Start. ................................................................................................................................................................ 34
2.8.2 Line Charging .......................................................................................................................................................... 34
2.9 FIELD BREAKER CLOSING / OPENING.................................................................................................................................... 35
2.10 EXCIT ON/OFF ............................................................................................................................................................... 36
2.11 MEASURED VALUES DISPLAY .............................................................................................................................................. 37
2.12 VOLTAGE MATCHING COMMANDS DURING SYNCHRONIZATION ................................................................................................ 37
2.13 PSS ON/OFF COMMANDS ............................................................................................................................................... 37
3 START-UP SEQUENCE ................................................................................................................................................... 39
3.1 GENERAL INFORMATION ................................................................................................................................................... 39
3.2 STARTING SEQUENCE IN GENERATOR MODE ......................................................................................................................... 41
3.2.1 Generator Normal Starting Sequence..................................................................................................................... 41
3.2.2 Line Charging Starting ............................................................................................................................................ 48
3.2.3 Back to Back Starting of Starter Unit ...................................................................................................................... 49
3.3 STARTING SEQUENCES IN MOTOR MODE ............................................................................................................................. 51
3.3.1 Starting by SFC ........................................................................................................................................................ 51

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 3.3.2 Back to Back Starting of Starting Unit .................................................................................................................... 53
4 SHUT-DOWN SEQUENCE .............................................................................................................................................. 55
4.1 NORMAL STOP SEQUENCE ................................................................................................................................................. 55
4.2 ELECTRICAL BRAKING BY SHORT CIRCUIT .............................................................................................................................. 56
4.3 ELECTRICAL BRAKING BY SFC (EXCITATION POWER SUPPLIED BY THE EXCITATION EQUIPMENT) ...................................................... 58
4.4 EMERGENCY SHUT-DOWN................................................................................................................................................. 59

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Notes

10 GEH-6794 EX2100e Excitation Control

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1 Overview
This document provides an operational description of the EX2100e Excitation Control along
with relevant safety instructions.
It describes the automatic and manual operating sequences of the regulator.

Note For troubleshooting assistance, refer to the EX2100e Excitation Control Diagnostic
Alarms for Thyristor Systems Troubleshooting Guide (GEH-6789).

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1.1 Safety Precautions

This equipment contains a potential hazard of electric

shock or burn. Only personnel who are adequately trained
and thoroughly familiar with the equipment and the
instructions should install, operate, or maintain this
equipment, or have access to the location where it is
Warning installed.

To prevent electric shock or burn while servicing the

equipment, personnel must understand and follow all
safety requirements for working around dangerous
voltages. Obey local site lockout/tagout (LOTO)
procedures, wear appropriate personal protective
equipment (PPE), and follow GE instructions when
Warning performing any adjustments, services, or other tasks
requiring physical proximity or contact with the circuit
boards, electrical components, or wiring of the exciter.

Due to the large amount of energy passing through the

exciter power converter, failure to properly reinstall
shields or to completely latch doors and covers
compromises these safeguards and places personnel at
higher risk when within the environs of the exciter.
Understand and follow the safety procedures and warning
labels.
Shock and burn hazard boundaries for the Excitation
Control Equipment are dependent upon the specific site
application conditions, including Power Potential
Transformer (PPT) voltage, the mega volt-ampere (MVA)
and impedance ratings, and fault overcurrent clearing
time of the power sources feeding the exciter. It is the
Warning responsibility of the customer to perform an arc flash
analysis of the system, understand the hazard boundaries
that exist, and employ adequate safeguards to protect
personnel who may be in the proximity of the exciter,
whether working on it or not. These safeguards include
restricted access for unqualified personnel, prohibition of
unsafe online maintenance practices, and use of
appropriate LOTO procedures and PPE for qualified
personnel who must access the exciter.

To prevent personal injury or death, personnel must be

aware of arc flash hazards, and must maintain safe
distances at all times as determined by released energy
calculations. The extent of arc flash hazards is not known
until the site-specific installation is evaluated; therefore
Warning GE recommends that an arc flash assessment be conducted
for each installation.

12 GEH-6794 EX2100e Excitation Control

GE Internal
 1.1.1 Safety Requirements
Before any action detailed in this manual is carried out, the Site Health and Safety
Instructions should be read and fully understood.
The instructions in this document should be read and fully understood also. They apply to
the excitation equipment only. These instructions do not replace the general safety
instructions in force of the plant and shall be undertaken after those of the site are fulfilled.

Note A permit to work may be (is) mandatory to access the excitation room.

Note Safety and lockout-tagout procedures have to be followed during operations inside the
excitation cubicle.

Hazardous voltages and heavy currents are present inside the excitation cubicles and on the
excitation transformer. Accidental and inadvertent contacts with hazardous live parts (field
breaker, bus bar, etc.) can cause serious injuries even death.
Maintenance works must be carried out only after the excitation system has been switched
off and when all heavy current carrying parts or under hazardous voltage parts have been
either discharged or disconnected from any voltage source, (field breaker, discharging
resistors, etc.). Before any work is carried out, the cubicle must be properly and safely
connected to earth on both the AC and DC sides.

1.1.2 Requirement to Maintenance Personnel

Whenever the equipment is operated, maintained or used in any way, the procedures in the
Site Health and Safety Manual and any procedure detailed in these instructions must be
followed.

All maintenance personnel must be trained on preventive and corrective maintenance.

They must be well acquainted with the excitation system, its power supply structure
(redundancy, etc.), as well as about its operating modes (local, remote, etc.).

Personnel must be informed and trained in emergency actions like emergency shut down,
firefighting, etc.

Only authorized personnel may perform manipulations inside the excitation cubicle.

1.1.3 Requirements for Worker Protection

• A worker that has access to the excitation room with power parts under voltage shall
wear appropriate arc resistant clothes.
• These protection equipment’s shall be worn as long as the excitation equipment is not
properly and fully deenergized, locked and grounded according to the site instructions.
• A worker that gets access to the excitation room while the power parts remain energized
shall also wear ear protections.

The following table illustrates the Arc Flash Protection Boundary (AFPB) and energy to be
supported by the personal protective equipment (PPE), based on assumed installation
conditions that might exist in a typical exciter application. These calculations are based on
equations published in IEEE1584, IEEE Guide for Performing Arc Flash Hazard
Calculations. These numbers are illustrative only, and must not be interpreted as applicable
to any customer site installation. It is the responsibility of the customer to perform an arc
flash analysis of his installation and implement appropriate safeguards as mentioned above.
Consider modifications to the installation to reduce the hazard levels during periods when
GEH-6794 Operation Guide 13
GE Internal
 maintenance personnel must be present to perform online repair procedures. These
modifications might include the use of reduced energy let-through (RELT) circuit breakers,
arc flash detection technology, or faster fault clearing time settings used during maintenance
periods.

Note This content provides general and example electrical safety information. For TSR
system applicable information, refer to the section Digital Front-end, Kits, and Separated
Controls Cabinet Applications.

Note When the control cabinet is attached to the power converter lineup, the control cabinet
may be within the hazard boundaries of the power converter. Appropriate PPE levels to access
the control cabinet may therefore be higher than might be expected based solely on hazards
within the control cabinet itself.

Exciter Ifn Imax Ip Up Sn Icc Energy AFPB

(Amp) (Amp) (Amp) (Volt) (MVA) (Amp) (cal/cm²) (m)
HX300 270 300 440 415 0.18 2900 1.2 1
HX800 760 840 1220 510 0.6 11600 3.3 2
HX1200 1150 1270 1750 850 1.44 16300 8.5 3.2
HX1600 1450 1600 2330 660 1.5 19887 7.5 2.9
HX2000 2050 2250 3270 860 2.8 31300 16.9 4.8
HX2500 2270 2500 3630 860 3.04 34000 18.2 5

PPE are determined considering the energy to be supported and the recommendations from
Standard for Electrical Safety in the Workplace, NFPA 70E, 2004.

An appropriate label is placed outside the container (if any), on every access and on every
door of the cubicle. The marking complies with Standard for Electrical Safety in the
Workplace, NFPA 70E, 2004 and CE marking requirements. Below is an example of this
label:

14 GEH-6794 EX2100e Excitation Control

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 1.1.4 Lockout-Tagout Requirement
The lockout tagout is part of the site instructions. It shall contain the instructions concerning:
• The de energization of the excitation power supply on the AC side with a locked device
(See remark),
• The de energization of the excitation bus bar on the DC side with a locked device (See
remark),
• The identification of the equipment to ensure it is deenergized,
• The verification of absence of electric voltage shall be done on the 3 phases on AC side
and on DC bus (between the excitation breaker and the field winding),
• The check that any capacitors of the excitation equipment such as of the snubbers, of the
ac filter, of the AC clipper, and others, are properly and fully discharged from any
residual hazardous voltages.
• The grounding of the bus bar on AC and DC sides.

Remark - The de energization of the power cubicle can be done by several means: locking of
the line shaft, line breaker, field breaker, disconnection of cables, etc. The plant owner shall
define the more appropriate way of locking the equipment in order to ensure the security of
the workers.

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 1.1.5 Grounding Bars
Models of the EX2100e H-variant excitation control are equipped with grounding bars for
temporary grounding of power busses during maintenance, in accordance with site safety and
LOTO procedures. These bars are located at the bottom of the cubicles and runs all along the
3 compartments of the excitation system (Control, Auxiliary Cabinet, Power Converter
Cabinets). Their dimensions are as follow: 50mm x 5mm

Grounding bars

Grounding Bars

To safely use the grounding bars within this equipment, site personnel must be properly
qualified and aware of site specific installation parameters as follows:
• Before using the grounding bars, verify the available short circuit current and clearing
time of the overcurrent protective equipment does not exceed their rating. These
parameters are site specific, and not necessarily determined by equipment within GE
scope of supply.
• Use grounding clamps and cables that are compatible with the grounding bars and
properly rated for the site parameters.
• Comply with site safety procedures and relevant standards such as those provided in the
following list.

Refer to relevant standards, including:

• IEC 61230, Portable Equipment for Earthing or Earthing and Short-Circuiting
• ASTM F855, Temporary Protective Grounds to Be Used on De-energized Electric Power
Lines and Equipment
• IEEE 1246, Guide for Temporary Protective Grounding Systems Used in Substations

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 1.1.6 Arc Flash Events
Evaluation of the root cause of arc flash failures in exciters, static starters, and similar power
conversion equipment shows that many arc flash events can be prevented with diligent
installation and maintenance procedures.

Note This content provides general and example electrical safety information. For TSR
system applicable information, refer to the section Digital Front-end, Kits, and Separated
Controls Cabinet Applications.

Causes and Preventive Practices for Arc Flash Events

Causes Best Preventive Practices
□ Torque all power connections.
□ Apply torque marks.
Loose power bus, bolts, and harnesses (contributed
to more than 25% of the events evaluated) □ Periodically inspect that marks are aligned.
□ Verify that all connectors are snug.
□ Verify that all connectors are free of mechanical stress.
□ Verify that all tools and parts are removed after installation and
maintenance.
Foreign objects such as tools, animals, loose parts, □ Retrieve and remove dropped fasteners and any chips or shavings
or moisture left in or ingested into the equipment from installation.
(caused approximately 25% of the events □ Do not store spare parts within the cabinets.
evaluated) □ Replace all shields and barriers after maintenance work.
□ Cover openings to keep out water, contaminants, and animals.
□ Keep cabinet doors securely closed.
□ Follow installation procedures carefully.
Other poor installation practice, such as cable □ Inspect cables for protection, support, and separation.
protection and energized part separation distances □ Inspect components and assemblies for adequate mounting and
voltage clearances.
Poor maintenance practice, such as keeping
openings sealed and air filters clean □ Follow maintenance guidelines appropriate for site conditions.

Catastrophic component failures, sometimes due to □ Monitor and mitigate external conditions that can lead to
premature failures.
external causes such as inadequate cooling,
□ Be careful not to damage new or reused parts during installation
excessive vibration, damage to insulating mica
procedures.
sheets or sleeves, transient overvoltage, or
□ Do not reuse questionable parts.
application beyond ratings
□ Know the equipment ratings and do not exceed them.

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 1.1.7 Digital Front-end, Kits, and Separated Controls
Cabinet Applications
Some EX2100e excitation control and LS2100e static starter control installations may
include a control cabinet that is separated from the power converter lineup. Examples
include EX2100e and LS2100e DFE applications and some combined EX2100e and
LS2100e LCI Exciter Compartment (LEC) installations, which locate the controls in a
separate room of the LEC from the power converters, to isolate personnel in the controls
area from the arc flash hazards of the power converter. While such an arrangement greatly
reduces the risks of shock, burn, and injury from arc blast pressures, personnel should
understand that hazardous voltage and energy levels are present in the vicinity, and are
exposed when the control cabinet door is opened.

Note This content may be considered applicable for TSR systems and TSR/SEDC, with
the exception of references to power converters.

Personnel should perform the following safety practices:

• Wear appropriate PPE for the equipment. For a separated EX2100e control cabinet,
this is typically PPE-0.
• Field installation of harnesses for separated control cabinets or field mounted kits can
introduce hazards and failure modes if proper procedures are not followed. Failures at
wire and cable connections are one of the leading causes of electrical equipment
misoperation, including unnecessary trips and failure of protective functions to
operate when needed. Watch out for:
- Open circuits or loose connections,
- Short circuits,
- Inadvertent contact and energizing cables with unintended voltages,
- Insulation damage from installation or abrasion over time,
- Conductor damage such as kinks, stretching, and stray strands at terminations,
- Voltages present on harnesses during maintenance due to remote equipment not
locked out. Establishing an electrically safe state for work on the controls in some
situations may also require lock-out to be performed on the power converter, and
vice versa.
- Poor terminations and stress on connectors. If harnesses are supplied pre-
terminated, ensure the terminations and connectors are not damaged during
harness installation.
- Poor routing and protection of harnesses. Where harnesses pass through building
or cabinet walls, provide adequate protection against damage and sealing to
Refer to the section, Related prevent propagation of contaminants during normal operation and arc blast gases
Documents during fault events. Refer to the applicable Installation and Startup manual, the
section, Preventing Cable Damage for the equipment.
- Failure to separate harnesses by voltage and electromagnetic compatibility
(EMC) levels. For the equipment, refer to applicable Installation and Startup
manual, the section, General Cable Specification and Routing Guidelines.
• Be sure protective and functional grounding is provided for the detached equipment,
per instructions provided in the system elementary diagram. A minimum #2 AWG
For grounding details, refer to grounding wire must be provided from the detached control equipment to the building
the equipment elementary system ground point. The power conversion cabinets must also be bonded to this
diagram. point.
• Look for hazards such as those in the above subsections during inspections following
installation and maintenance.

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 1.1.8 Additional Safety Reminders
• Always know the voltage approach and arc flash boundaries for the equipment you work
on or are exposed to, and wear appropriate PPE.
• PPE always includes hearing protection. Arc flash events generate high sound levels and
blast pressure waves that can cause permanent hearing damage.
• While PPE may provide protection from shocks and burns, it does not provide protection
from injuries such as falling or being thrown by an arc blast pressure wave. For example,
for a typical EX2100e control installation with a 2500A power bridge (H2500) and 300
ms clearing time, the arc blast pressure at 0.9 m (3 ft) from the arc could be 644 kg/m2
(131 lbs/ft2). To avoid such injuries, always de-energize and apply lockout for all
maintenance activities in areas where arc flash hazards exist.
• Equipment may be energized from multiple sources, including unintended or inadvertent
sources. Never assume any conductor is safe to touch.
• Electromechanical devices such as relays and contactors are not suitable lockout devices,
since they can be re-energized electrically.
• When equipment is installed in rooms with small volumes, consider adding room
pressure relief vents that open during arc blast events to reduce the blast pressure. The
exhaust from these vents must be directed away from personnel and other equipment.
• Consider installing ground fault protection on control power supplies to the equipment,
to provide additional safety for site personnel.
• Always be alert to safety. Shock, burns, and other injuries may happen in an
unanticipated instant, but can cause a lifetime of impact.

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1.2 Preparing the System for Operation

1.2.1 Electrical Checking

Refer to wiring diagram for After a long period of shut down, the system must be prepared for testing the insulation
details of circuits and checking that all power supply voltages are available.

Preparing the test

Check the connection of all power supply cables to the excitation-regulation cubicle.
Disconnect the supply cable from each electronic device, relay, transducer, or converter.
Remove all the fuses from the system.
Check that all protective covers, screens, and other safety devices are in place.
Check that the air filters in the excitation cubicle doors are clean.

Insulation test
If the insulation resistance is less than indicated below, an investigation must be carried
out to find the defective circuit.

The insulation resistance measurement is realized by applying 500 Vdc between terminals
of one sub-assembly and all other earthed connections of the circuit.
During this test, the sub-assembly is disconnected from external circuits and not supplied
with power, except the circuit providing testing voltage.
The insulation resistance is measured when the measure reaches a steady value, and not
less than 5 seconds after having applied the 500 Vdc voltage. The value of this resistance
for each circuit must be higher than 1kOhm / Volt.

Tested circuits Insulation resistance

AC flashing power supply (primary side) > 10 M
Auxiliary power supply > 10 M
Lighting and heating power supply > 10 M
Battery supply > 10 M
Voltage free I/O > 10 M
Fan circuit (secondary side) > 10 M
Stator voltage measurement (regulator) > 10 M
Stator current measurement (regulator) > 10 M
Zero sequence voltage measurement (protection) > 10 M
Stator current measurement (protection) > 10 M
Stator voltage measurement (synchronizer) > 10 M
Low level power supply (24Vdc) > 10 M
Low level power supply (28Vdc) > 10 M
Low level power supply (48Vdc) > 10 M
Pulses circuit > 10 M
Phase reference (secondary of EBAC module) > 10 M
Analog I/O > 10 M
Serial link connection > 10 M
Global insulation Resistance facing earth > 100 M

Check the power supply voltages of:

- Field flashing circuit,
- Control and signaling circuits,
- Regulators M1, M2 (in any), C (in any),
- Measurement and protection circuits,
- Auxiliaries.

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 - Reconnect the power supply to all electronic devices and relays, transducers, and
converters.
- Re-insert the supply fuses.

Electrical checks
Check the electronic boards, relays, transducers, and converters.
Check the control and signaling systems.
Check the relay systems.
Check and correct the settings of the measuring system.
Refer to the setting Test the automatic control system.
specifications of the equipment Check and correct the settings of the protection relays.
(project specific) Check the closing and opening command sequences of the switches (field breaker locked
When these checks have been in open position).
completed, continue to: Inform the control room that the excitation-regulation system is ready for start-up.

1.2.2 Downloading the System Software

Refer to the ToolboxST User Check whether the system software has been downloaded into the regulator, if not,
Guide for Mark Controls download it using ToolboxST. In case of a problem or after replacement of the CPU
Platforms (GEH–6700), the board, the system software should be downloaded again.
sections related to the EX2100e
Excitation Control

1.2.3 Downloading the Parameters

Refer to the ToolboxST User Check whether the parameters of the project have been downloaded into the regulator, if
Guide for Mark Controls not, upload them using ToolboxST. In the event of a problem after the CPU board has
Platforms (GEH–6700), the been replaced, the parameters should be uploaded again.
sections related to the EX2100e In the event of a problem after a board of the system (EAUX, EBRG, …) has been
Excitation Control replaced, the parameters should be checked before operation.
Refer to the specific electronic
board documentation
Refer to EX2100e H-variant
Excitation Control Installation
and Startup Guide (GEH-6793)
for application parameter
download detail

GEH-6794 Operation Guide 21

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Notes

22 GEH-6794 EX2100e Excitation Control

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2 Controls and Indicators
Refer to GEI-100787 - The paragraph details the main controls and indicators of the excitation system. These
EX2100e Excitation and controls and indicators are accessed locally, either by using push buttons or a dedicated
LS2100e Static Starter Control Local Control Panel (LCP), and a remote-control system. The controls and indicators
Systems Touchscreen Local listed below are available on the Local Control Panel (LCP) but depend on the project
Operator Interface Instruction configuration.
Guide for supplementary
information on the indicators
and controls of the Local
Control Panel (LCP)

2.1 Local/Remote Control

The command signals may originate from, and the status signals may be displayed at different
locations:
• the local control system (in front of the excitation cubicle),
• a separate control cubicle, or
• a remote-control system (e.g. a DCS system) in a separate control room,
In the two first case, the control is called local. In the last one, it is called remote control.
Local controls are only active if appropriate user level has been selected.

Note There is no locking mechanism between local and remote control. Both are considered
by the application when applied.

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2.2 M1 Controller / M2 Controller Changeover
In a redundant configuration either DUAL (two controllers in regulator configuration) or
TRM (three controllers in exciter configuration), it is possible to change over from M1
controller to M2 controller and from M2 controller to M1 controller.

Refer to Changeover In the case of a PT failure, an automatic changeover is performed to the Manual mode of
management paragraph the active controller.
In case of another fault type in the active controller, an automatic changeover is performed
between controllers.
A manual changeover is also possible by the operator in both control modes, Remote and
Local.

Note in the TMR configuration, the C controller helps making the changeover decision
thanks to a voting process.

The inactive controller operates in tracking mode, i.e. it behaves as a shadow regulator;
this is to ensure a smooth changeover from one controller to the other.
Refer to GEI-100787 - Controller M1 or Controller M2 is selected either from the Local Control Panel (LCP)
EX2100e Excitation and with the appropriate user level, or by a command from the remote-control system.
LS2100e Static Starter Control
Systems Touchscreen Local
Operator Interface Instruction
Guide

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2.3 Auto/Manual Mode (Single or Redundant Configuration)
Each controller (M1 or M2) has an integrated manual mode, and the generator can be
controlled by this manual mode as well.

When the generator is controlled by the automatic mode, its voltage is maintained
constant whatever the network conditions.

When the generator is controlled by the manual mode, excitation current or excitation
voltage is maintained constant depending on the option selection. In case of a network
disturbance, it is the responsibility of the operator to ensure a constant generator voltage
by adjusting the excitation current/voltage. The manual mode is mainly used at the
commissioning stage, or for special start-up and maintenance operations.

During operation with the manual mode, when the field breaker closed, the excitation
current set point is set to the no-load rotor current value of the generator.
When the generator breaker is opened, the excitation current set point is automatically set
back to the no-load rotor current value.

Refer to GEI-100787 - At any time, it is possible to switch between the automatic and the manual mode without
EX2100e Excitation and any problems, since the non-active mode operates in follow up mode.
LS2100e Static Starter Control Toggle action from automatic mode to manual mode and vice versa is possible either
Systems Touchscreen Local from the Local Control Panel (LCP), or by a command from a remote-control system.
Operator Interface Instruction The status is indicated on the Local Control Panel (LCP) on main screen.
Guide

GEH-6794 Operation Guide 25

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2.4 Changeover Management

2.4.1 In Single Configuration

The following scheme illustrates the switching philosophy between Auto mode and Manual
mode.
The only fault that generates an automatic change over to Manual mode is the PT failure. The
other fault cases will generate alarms and trips.

When the manual mode is used, it is essential that experienced staff operates the generator.

Changeover Management in Simplex Configuration

26 GEH-6794 EX2100e Excitation Control

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 2.4.2 In Redundant Configuration
Depending on the excitation system configuration, two switching philosophies exist in
EX2100e Solution.

The following scheme illustrates the switching philosophy between Auto mode and Manual
mode in a DUAL configuration that characterize the EX2100e Regulator application.

The only fault that can generate an automatic change over to Manual mode is the PT failure.
When the fault is only seen by one controller, then the automatic change over to the healthy
controller is initiated.

Changeover Management in DUAL Redundant Configuration (Regulator)

When the manual mode is used, it is essential that the generator is operated by experienced
staff.

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 The following scheme illustrates the switching philosophy between Auto mode and Manual
mode in a TMR configuration that characterize the EX2100e Exciter application.

The only fault that can generate an automatic change over to Manual mode is the PT failure.
When the fault is only seen by one controller, then the automatic change over to the healthy
controller is initiated, when confirmed by the C controller.

Changeover Management in TMR Redundant Configuration (Exciter)

When the manual mode is used, it is essential that the generator is operated by experienced
staff.

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2.5 Regulation Modes in Auto Mode

2.5.1 Voltage Control Mode

During operation with the automatic mode, the voltage regulation loop controls the
generator voltage. In Auto mode, voltage control mode is the “normal” regulation mode.
However, it is possible to switch to other regulation modes (reactive power control or
power factor control) sending a control command either from the Local Control Panel
(LCP) on the front of the excitation cubicle, or from the remote-control system. When in
Auto mode, if none of these regulation modes are selected, then the excitation system is
in voltage regulation mode.

Note the voltage regulation mode status is not explicitly displayed on the LCP.

As soon as the field breaker is closed, the voltage set point is set up the rated value of the
generator.

On Local Control Panel (LCP), the voltage set point can be adjusted by means of lower
Refer to GEI-100787 - and raise commands.
EX2100e Excitation and In remote control mode, several possibilities are given. It is possible to modify the set
LS2100e Static Starter Control point by means of lower and raise commands through DCS Modbus, HMI (EGD) or
Systems Touchscreen Local hardwired. If an external set point is validated and available through a hardwire analog
Operator Interface Instruction input, the voltage set point will be followed with a ramp.
Guide

2.5.2 Reactive Power Control Mode

During operation with the Auto mode, provided the generator is connected to a network,
it is possible to control the reactive power of the generator. For this, the controller is
Refer to GEI-100787 - switched to the reactive power control mode through the Local Control Panel (LCP), or
EX2100e Excitation and through the remote-control system.
LS2100e Static Starter Control During operation with the Manual mode, it is not possible to changeover directly in
Systems Touchscreen Local Reactive power control mode. A changeover in Auto mode (in voltage regulation mode)
Operator Interface Instruction is first needed.
Guide When reactive power control is in use, this is displayed on LCP in the Control Functions
Screen.

When reactive power control is not active, the reactive power set point follows the actual
reactive power. Hence, switching to reactive power control is always smooth since the
generator will keep on working at the same operating point.

On Local Control Panel (LCP), the reactive power set point can be adjusted by means of
lower and raise commands.
In remote control mode, several possibilities are given. It is possible to modify the set
point by means of lower and raise commands through DCS Modbus, HMI (EGD) or
hardwired. If an external set point is validated and available through a hardwire analog
input, the set point will be followed with a ramp.

Note When the generator breaker is opened, the regulator is automatically switched to
the voltage control mode.

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 2.5.3 Power Factor Control Mode
During operation with the Auto mode, provided the generator is connected to a network,
it is possible to control the power factor of the generator. For this, the active controller is
Refer to GEI-100787 - switched to the power factor control mode through the Local Control Panel (LCP), or
EX2100e Excitation and through the remote-control system.
LS2100e Static Starter Control During operation with the Manual mode, it is not possible to changeover directly in Power
Systems Touchscreen Local Factor control mode. A changeover in Auto mode (in voltage regulation mode) is first
Operator Interface Instruction needed.
Guide When power factor control is in use, this is displayed on LCP in the Control Functions
Screen.

When power factor control is not active, the power factor set point follows the actual
power factor. Hence, switching to power factor control is always smooth since the
generator keeps on working at the same operating point.

On Local Control Panel (LCP), the power factor set point can be adjusted by means of
lower and raise commands.
In remote control mode, several possibilities are given. It is possible to modify the set
point by means of lower and raise commands through DCS Modbus, HMI (EGD) or
hardwired. If an external set point is validated and available through a hardwire analog
input, the set point will be followed with a ramp.

Note When the generator breaker is opened, the regulator is automatically switched to
the voltage control mode.

2.5.4 Generator and Grid for Active and Reactive Power

Measurement
In reactive power control mode or power factor control mode, either generator
measurements or grid measurements can be used.
Generator active and reactive power measurements are generated by the controller from
the stator voltage and current measurements.
Grid active and reactive power measurements are obtained from the plant through
dedicated analog inputs.
The selection of the measurements type is only possible in remote-control with several
possibilities. It is possible to make the selection through DCS Modbus, HMI (EGD) or
hardwire.

Note this function is only available when Reactive Power or Power factor control has
been selected.

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2.6 Regulation Modes in Manual Mode
The Manual mode is applied:
• during initial start-up of the excitation system and generator,
• when the Auto mode is not available. It is in this case a degraded use of excitation
system: a maintenance action should be initiated.
The excitation solution application offers 2 possibilities for Manual mode regulation. They
are not possible simultaneously. The selection is a user defined parameter.
In the application, the configuration is either FVR (Field Voltage regulator) or MCR (Manual
field Current Regulator).

2.6.1 Field Voltage Regulator

During operation with the Manual mode, the field voltage regulation loop (FVR) controls
the field voltage.
As soon as the field breaker is closed, the field voltage set point is set to the rated value
of the generator.

Refer to GEI-100787 - On Local Control Panel (LCP), the field voltage set point can be adjusted by means of
EX2100e Excitation and lower and raise commands.
LS2100e Static Starter Control In remote control mode, it is possible to modify the set point by means of lower and raise
Systems Touchscreen Local commands through HMI (EGD).
Operator Interface Instruction
Guide

2.6.2 Manual Field Current Regulator

During operation with the manual mode, the Manual field Current regulation loop (MCR)
controls the generator field current.
As soon as the field breaker is closed, the field current set point is set up the no-load field
current value of the generator.

Refer to GEI-100787 - On Local Control Panel (LCP), the field current set point can be adjusted by means of
EX2100e Excitation and lower and raise commands.
LS2100e Static Starter Control In remote control mode, several possibilities are given. It is possible to modify the set
Systems Touchscreen Local point by means of lower and raise commands through DCS Modbus, HMI (EGD) or
Operator Interface Instruction hardwired. If an external set point is validated and available through a hardwire analog
Guide input, the field current set point will be followed with a ramp.

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2.7 Set Point Raise \ Set Point Lower Commands

These commands are used to adjust the set points for different control modes, i.e. manual
control, voltage control, reactive power control or power factor control. Only the
operational set point is adjusted, the other set points simply follow their respective actual
values.
Set point raise \ set point lower are given either on the Local Control Panel (LCP) on the
front of the excitation cubicle or through the remote-control system. In remote control
mode, several possibilities are given. It is possible to modify the set point through
Modbus, HMI (EGD) or hardwired commands.
Set point changes can also be commanded by means of analogue 4-20 mA current signals.
Depending on the control mode, the following signals will be used as set point: an
excitation current value, a stator voltage value, a reactive power value or a power factor
value. A digital command validates the use of the external set point value.
If an external set point is validated and available through the hardwire analog input, the
set point will be followed with a ramp.

Voltage control
If the Auto mode with voltage control has been selected, the operating point of the
generator can be changed by means of Set point raise \ Set point lower commands.
If the generator is not connected to a power network, the Set point commands cause the
output voltage of the generator to change.
When the generator is connected to a power network, the Set point commands cause the
Refer to GEI-100787 - reactive power of the generator to change.
EX2100e Excitation and When the operating limits of the generator are reached, the Set point raise \ Set point
LS2100e Static Starter Control lower commands are no longer effective.
Systems Touchscreen Local This is indicated on the Local Control Panel (LCP) in the Main Screen.
Operator Interface Instruction
Guide

Reactive Power or Power Factor control (option)

When the generator operates with reactive power control or with power factor control in
Auto mode, the regulator controls and imposes a reactive power supply consistent with
the turbine power to maintain a constant power factor.
The operating point of the generator can be changed by using the Set point raise \ Set
point lower commands.

Note This function is only available with generators connected to a powerful network.

When the generator is disconnected from the network to operate as an isolated power
source, the regulator is forced to voltage control.
This function is interlocked with the position of the generator breaker or of any other
circuit breaker designed to disconnect the generator from the power network.
When the operating limits of the generator are reached, the Set point raise \ Set point
lower commands are no longer effective.
This is indicated on the Local Control Panel (LCP) in the Main Screen.

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 Manual current control
If the manual mode has been selected with excitation current control, it is the excitation
current of the system which is changed by the Set point raise \ Set point lower commands.
If the generator is not connected to a network, the Set point commands cause the output
voltage of the generator to change.
When the generator is connected to a network, the Set point commands cause the reactive
power of the generator to change.
During operation with the manual current control mode, the only limitation is usually that
of the field current, which is not allowed to exceed 110 % of its rated value. This limit
may permit operation with a stator current above rated when the generator voltage is less
than rated.
The function integrates also a under excitation limit. When the operating limit of the
generator is reached, the Set point lower commands is no longer effective.
Optionally, the manual mode may include an upper stator voltage limitation.
The limits are indicated on the Local Control Panel (LCP) in the Main Screen.

Manual voltage control

If the manual mode has been selected with excitation voltage control, it is the excitation
voltage of the system which is changed by the Set point raise \ Set point lower commands.
If the generator is not connected to a network, the Set point commands cause the output
voltage of the generator to change.
When the generator is connected to a network, the Set point commands cause the reactive
power of the generator to change.
During operation with the manual voltage control mode, the excitation field current is
monitored. When the measurement reaches its maximal allowed value (110 % of its rated
value), the Set point raise command is no longer effective.
The function integrates also a under excitation limit. When the operating limit of the
generator is reached, the Set point lower commands is no longer effective.
Optionally, the manual mode may include an upper stator voltage limitation.
The limits are indicated on the Local Control Panel (LCP) in the Main Screen.

Note when the manual mode is used, it is essential that experienced staff operates the
generator. The operator must ensure that the generator's operating point remains within
the range of safe operation (referring to the P/Q diagram of the generator).

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2.8 Ramp Sequence or Line Charging

2.8.1 Soft Start.

The generator voltage can be increased slowly to avoid stressing the generator windings and
to increase the life time of the unit.
At the build-up of the stator voltage reference, an initial preset value (usually 80% of nominal
stator voltage or 80% of no-load current) and a ramp parameter are provided to adjust the
soft start function of EX2100e.

2.8.2 Line Charging

The Line charging function allows build-up of the stator voltage in a dead network. The
generator voltage is increased very slowly to avoid voltage overshoot at the end of the line,
and to avoid transformer damage at the end of the line.
The “RAMP” function is selected before starting the unit.
It can be selected from an external digital input, or from the DCS or from HMI. When
selected, a digital output RAMP_SLD_DO is activated.

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2.9 Field Breaker Closing / Opening
Refer to GEI-100787 - • either on the Local Control Panel (LCP), when the Excit ON/OFF option is disabled.
EX2100e Excitation and When the Excit ON/OFF option is enabled, the closing of field breaker from the
LS2100e Static Starter Control Touchscreen is not available.
Systems Touchscreen Local • or through the remote-control system.
Operator Interface Instruction When the field breaker is closed, the status is displayed on the LCP in the EX2100e System
Guide I/O status screen.
On field breaker closing, the set point value, depending on the operating mode (Auto
mode or Manual mode) is automatically pre-set to a previously defined value.

In the case of a normal stop, field breaker opening is selected either on the Touchscreen
if Excit ON/OFF option is disabled, or through the remote-control system and forces the
pulse generator in inverter mode during 200ms (standard value of the parameter
Stop1Sec) and open the field breaker after. At the field breaker opening, the de-excitation
function is activated. When the field breaker is opened, the LCP displays the status of the
breaker in the EX2100e System I/O Status view.

Note Depending on activation of the Excit ON/OFF option, the “Start/Stop” button in
main Touchscreen view has different meaning.
When Excit ON/OFF option is disabled, “Start/Stop” button indication corresponds to the
closing/opening status of the field breaker. Simultaneously it corresponds also to
activation/deactivation of the SCR pulses.
When Excit ON/OFF option is enabled, “Start/Stop” button indication corresponds only
to activation/deactivation of the SCR pulses.

Note In normal stop, field breaker cannot be opened if the status of the 52G main unit
breaker is closed.

In case of a Trip request (internal or external), whatever the status of the 52G main unit
breaker, the pulses are immediately stopped and the field breaker opened.
When the field breaker is opened, the LCP displays the status of the breaker. An Alarm
is displayed also.
Field breaker closing is
selected:

GEH-6794 Operation Guide 35

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2.10Excit ON/OFF
The Excit ON/OFF option is only available on EX2100e H-variant excitation systems.
The function allows specific management of the excitation system and the activation/de-
activation of the pulses, independently of the field breaker opening.
The commands are available from an external digital input, or from the Modbus DCS or
from HMI. They are not available from the Touchscreen.

The Excit ON command is selected through the remote-control system. It initiates the
closing of the field breaker. When the field breaker is closed, the status is displayed on
the Local Control Panel (LCP).
On Excit ON, the set point value, depending on the operating mode (Auto mode or
Manual mode) is automatically pre-set to a previously defined value.

In the case of a normal stop, the Excit OFF command is selected through the remote-
control system and forces the pulse generator in inverter mode during 200ms (standard
value of the parameter Stop1Sec) and stops the pulses without opening the field breaker.
The Excit OFF command can only be applied if the 52G main unit breaker is opened.
Field breaker stays closed, until an open command of the field breaker is initiated.

Note In normal stop, field breaker cannot be opened if the status of the 52G main unit
breaker is closed.

Note In case of a Trip request (internal or external), whatever the status of the 52G main
unit breaker, the pulses are immediately stopped and the field breaker opened.
When the field breaker is opened, the LCP displays the status of the breaker. An Alarm
is displayed also.

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2.11Measured Values Display
Refer to GEI-100787 - Measured values of the Master Controller, meaning the controller that is active, are
EX2100e Excitation and displayed:
LS2100e Static Starter Control • either on the Local Control Panel (LCP) on the Main Screen,
Systems Touchscreen Local • or on the Workstation HMI in the Control Room (depending on the project).
Operator Interface Instruction
Guide

2.12Voltage Matching Commands during Synchronization

A voltage matching function allows equalization of stator voltage in regard to an external
voltage.
An external 4-20 mA voltage set point can be used for synchronization purpose on the
regulator.
The commands (activation and de-activation of the voltage matching) are available from an
external digital input, or from the DCS or from HMI.

2.13PSS ON/OFF Commands

Refer to GEI-100787 - In special operation, it can be useful to inhibit the PSS operation.
EX2100e Excitation and
LS2100e Static Starter Control PSS On as well as PSS off are selected either on the Local Control Panel (LCP), or
Systems Touchscreen Local through the remote-control system.
Operator Interface Instruction The Local Control Panel (LCP) displays the status of the PSS in the Control Functions
Guide Screen.

GEH-6794 Operation Guide 37

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Notes

38 GEH-6794 EX2100e Excitation Control

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3 Start-up Sequence
3.1 General Information

When the generator is about to be synchronized with the

network for the first time, check carefully that the phase
sequence of the network is consistent with that of the
generator and that the synchronization equipment is
properly connected and working correctly.
Such checks must be made after any works carried out on the
Warning power circuits, whether on the generator side or on the
network side.

During power increase, to check correct operation of the

excitation equipment, the following parameters must be
monitored:
- Generator active power
- Generator reactive power
- Stator voltage
- Stator current
- Excitation current
Warning - Excitation voltage
- Operating limits
- Alarms
- Noise and vibration in the excitation cubicle shall be
inspected by maintenance personnel

Commands validation:
For further information, refer The Modbus commands are selected only if the Modbus line is validated. The life variable
to the Modbus list document shall be active.
The HMI commands are selected only if the EGD variables are activated.

Flashing sequence selection

Three flashing sequence schemes are possible:
• Flashing scheme with only 53B flashing breaker involvement. The flashing resistance
limits the field flashing current.
• Flashing scheme with hysteretic control of the field current. This scheme involves two
flashing breakers (53A and 53B) to control the increase of the field current.
• No field flashing. The field voltage is provided from an auxiliary bus.
The selection of the flashing scheme is obtained from position of two attributes according
following table:
No53A AuxBusFed Flashing scheme EX2100e variant
Flashing scheme with 53B
True False H-variant
breaker
Flashing scheme with
False False hysteretic control (both 53A S-variant
and 53B breaker)
False True No flashing S-variant; H-variant

GEH-6794 Operation Guide 39

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 Starting mode selection (for hydraulic pump generator units)
The starting mode selection can only be selected with generator circuit breaker and field
breaker opened.
Two modes are available:
• Motor mode selection (Digital input or Modbus command or HMI command).
• Generator mode selection (Digital input or Modbus command or HMI command).
The default value is the generator mode.

Incompatible operating modes:

• SFC selection or electrical braking selection will reset the back to back starting selection.
• Back to back starting selection will reset SFC selection.
• Back to back starting selection will reset the electrical braking selection (by short circuit
or SFC).

Sequences reset:
The starting mode is reset with one of the following conditions:
• opening of the field breaker.
• starting mode: pump mode to generator mode or generator mode to pump mode.
• Off command of the corresponding mode: SFC off command or back to back off
command, Electrical braking Off command.
• Selection of a non-compatible operating mode.

Faults:
A fault of the excitation system will be indicated through its tripping output.
If an external fault occurs, this should act on the excitation field circuit breaker tripping
command (physical input).

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3.2 Starting Sequence in Generator Mode

3.2.1 Generator Normal Starting Sequence

The normal starting sequence is depending on:
• The flashing sequence selection (refer to previous paragraph),
• The Excit ON/OFF option (refer to Excit ON/OFF paragraph).

Note When the Excit ON/OFF option is not validated, the field breaker is managed by the
EAUX board. When the Excit ON/OFF option is validated, the field breaker is managed by
the ESYS board.

Note Excit ON/OFF option is only available on EX2100e H-variant.

The following figures detail the sequence flow chart depending on flashing sequence
selection.

Note For coupling to the network, an automatic and/or a manual synchronizing device are
available for voltage equalization and phase angle matching between the generator and the
network.

GEH-6794 Operation Guide 41

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 3.2.1.1 With Excit ON/OFF Option Disabled

Normal Start with Flashing Scheme Involving Only 53B Flashing Breaker –
Excit ON/OFF Option Invalidated

42 GEH-6794 EX2100e Excitation Control

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 Normal Start with Excitation Current Hysteretic Control Sequence During Flashing–
Excit ON/OFF Option Invalidated

GEH-6794 Operation Guide 43

GE Internal
 Normal Start without Flashing –
Excit ON/OFF Option Invalidated

44 GEH-6794 EX2100e Excitation Control

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 3.2.1.2 With Excit ON/OFF Option Enabled

Normal Start with Flashing Scheme Involving Only 53B Flashing Breaker –
Excit ON/OFF Option Validated

GEH-6794 Operation Guide 45

GE Internal
 Normal Start with Excitation Current Hysteretic Control Sequence during Flashing –
Excit ON/OFF Option Validated

46 GEH-6794 EX2100e Excitation Control

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 Normal Start without Flashing –
Excit ON/OFF Option Validated

GEH-6794 Operation Guide 47

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 3.2.2 Line Charging Starting
The line charging sequence allows the powering of a network line in a dead network.
The sequence authorizes the starting of the excitation system with 52G main circuit breaker
closed. Ramp slope and reference pre-set value for the stator voltage build-up are adapted to
these specific network conditions.

Line Charging

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 3.2.3 Back to Back Starting of Starter Unit
The sequence is usually used in hydroelectric power plant to start a speed stopped unit thanks
to an already rotating unit in generator mode. So, it involves 2 Synchronous Machines (SM)
that are electrically connected: one SM is at speed stopped, the other one is driven by an
external system that controls the speed of the line shaft.
Starter unit:
It is the SM that is operated in generator mode.
It is already running at a variable speed, controlled externally.
It provides a variable frequency voltage to the stator inputs of the starting SM.
Starting unit:
It is the SM that is operated in motor mode.

The Back to Back (B2B) sequence is initiated by a B2B demand coming either from Digital
input or DCS command or HMI command.
The starter unit is power supplied from an external independent power supply during the
speed increase phase. It is excited in Manual Mode at an internal fixed field current reference
value.
During B2B operation, the SM field current is monitored. The field current must stay between
2 thresholds: B2Blmin and B2Blmax. If the field current variations increase or decrease out
of the range delimited by the 2 thresholds, a trip is generated.

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 The B2B starting sequence of the starter unit is following the steps detailed on the below
flow chart.

Back to Back Starting Sequence of the Starter Unit

The B2B starting sequence of the starter unit can be interrupted by:
• A B2B stopping demand,
• A normal stop of the excitation system,
• The selection of the following other options: SFC starting selection or Electrical
breaking selection (SFC or short-circuit).
When the sequence is interrupted, the excitation system returns in AUTO mode, ready to
start.
The excitation system power supply changeover is only possible when the excitation system
is in normal running or in normal stop. It is not possible during the flashing or excitation
starting phase.

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3.3 Starting Sequences in Motor Mode

3.3.1 Starting by SFC

Some generator driving engines, especially gas turbines or hydraulic generators operating as
pump, need an auxiliary device for starting.
This function is then allowed by the Synchronous Machine (SM), used for this purpose in
motor, and a Static Frequency Converter (SFC). The SFC is connected to the stator of the
SM to control the speed of the unit. The SFC generates a variable frequency on the stator,
from 0rpm to approximately rated speed, allowing the starting of the unit. During this phase,
the excitation system is controlled in Manual mode. The Manual set-point value can be fixed
either by an external set-point or an internal fixed parameterized value.
The SM speed increases following a slope with a constant flux ratio U/f until the speed
required for the synchronization of the unit. When the unit has reached the synchronous
speed, the SM can be connected to the grid in generator mode. The SFC is opened and the
excitation system is back in AUTO mode control. The excitation system controls the stator
voltage of the generator. The generator can be synchronized to the network thanks to external
synchronizing device.
In the SFC starting phase, the SFC and the excitation system are power supplied by an
external independent power supply.
The selection of the Pump Mode (SM in motor mode) is only possible if the excitation system
is in normal stop or Excit OFF (in case of Excit ON/OFF option).

Note The excitation system control is not in charge of the SFC operation.

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 The SFC starting sequence steps are detailed on the following flow chart.

SFC Starting

The SFC starting sequence can be interrupted by:

• An SFC stopping demand,
• A normal stop of the excitation system,
• The selection of the following other options: Back to Back starting selection or Electrical
breaking selection.
When the sequence is interrupted, the excitation system remains in the last status of operation.
The excitation system power supply changeover is only possible when the excitation system
is in normal running or in normal stop. It is not possible during the flashing or excitation
starting phase.

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 3.3.2 Back to Back Starting of Starting Unit
The sequence is usually used in hydroelectric power plant to start a speed stopped unit thanks
to an already rotating unit in generator mode. So, it involves 2 Synchronous Machines (SM)
that are electrically connected: one SM is at speed stopped, the other one is driven by an
external system that controls the speed of the line shaft.
Starter unit:
It is the SM that is operated in generator mode.
Starting unit:
It is the SM that is operated in motor mode.
It starts thanks to variable frequency provided by the stator outputs of the starter
unit.

The Back to Back (B2B) sequence is initiated by a B2B demand coming either from Digital
input or DCS command or HMI command.
The starting unit is power supplied from an external independent power supply. It is excited
in Manual Mode at an internal fixed field current reference value.
During B2B operation, the SM field current is monitored. The field current must stay between
2 thresholds: B2Blmin and B2Blmax. If the field current variations increase or decrease out
of the range delimited by the 2 thresholds, a trip is generated.

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 The B2B starting sequence of the starting unit is following the steps detailed on the below
flow chart.

Back to Back Starting Sequence of the Starting Unit

The B2B starting sequence of the starting unit can be interrupted by:
• A B2B stopping demand,
• A normal stop of the excitation system,
• The selection of the following other options: SFC starting selection or Electrical
breaking selection (SFC or short-circuit).
When the sequence is interrupted, the excitation system remains in the last status of operation.
The excitation system power supply changeover is only possible when the excitation system
is in normal running or in normal stop. It is not possible during the flashing or excitation
starting phase.

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4 Shut-Down Sequence
4.1 Normal Stop Sequence
The following figures detail the flow chart in a normal stop sequence.
The sequence is depending on the validation or invalidation of the Excit ON/OFF option.
When the option is selected, an Excit OFF command will stop the excitation system, meaning
the pulses are stopped but the field breaker is still closed: the excitation system is not in a
complete stopped status, but it is “ready to re-start”. If a field breaker opening is requested,
meaning a full stop of the excitation system, then both stop sequences are identical.

Note Excit ON/OFF option is only available on EX2100e H-variant.

Normal or Full Stop sequence –

with Option Excit ON/OFF Invalidated

Excit OFF Sequence –

Excit ON/OFF Option Validated

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4.2 Electrical Braking by Short Circuit
The function allows line shaft breaking when a breaker voluntarily short-circuits the
generator stator windings. The generator is excited and allow a faster stopping of the unit. In
this case, the excitation system is power supplied by an independent external power supply.
When the Electrical Braking demand is initiated either by DCS, or Digital Input or HMI, the
excitation system is changeover to Manual Mode. Depending on the initial operating point,
the excitation field current is first decreased to zero and the excitation stopped: this precaution
is taken to make sure that the short-circuit breaker is closed under no current and no voltage.
This is also only possible when the 52G main unit breaker is opened.
At that stage, the power supply changeover (if any) can happen as well as the closing of the
short-circuit breaker. The excitation system does not manage those actions.
When ready, the excitation system is re-started with no-flashing, still in Manual mode and
the field current reference is preset to an adequate value (usually 80% of no-load current).
The Electrical Braking sequence is completed when the excitation system stop demand is
initiated. This demand is either an Excit OFF if the Excit ON/OFF option is validated or a
normal stop demand from DCS, or Digital Input, or Operator Interface.

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 The Electrical Braking sequence steps are detailed on the following flow chart.

Electrical Braking by Short-Circuit

The Electrical Braking sequence can be interrupted by:

• An Electrical Braking OFF demand,
• A normal stop of the excitation system,
• The closing of the 52G main unit breaker,
• The selection of the following other options: SFC stopping demand or Back to Back
starting selection.
When the sequence is interrupted, the excitation system returns to its normal stopped status
The excitation system power supply changeover is only possible when the excitation system
is in normal running or in normal stop. It is not possible during the flashing or starting phase.

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4.3 Electrical Braking by SFC (Excitation Power Supplied by
the Excitation Equipment)
The function allows line shaft breaking operating the Synchronous Machine (SM) in motor.
The SM is controlled through its stator windings thanks to a Static Frequency Converter
(SFC). The SM is excited in Manual mode and the SFC generates a variable frequency on
the SM stator to allow a faster stopping of the unit. In this case, the excitation system, as well
as the SFC, shall be power supplied by an independent external power supply.

Note The control of the SFC is not performed by the EX2100e. But the excitation system
control is waiting for the SFC feedback status.

When the Electrical Braking demand is initiated either by DCS, or Digital Input or HMI, the
excitation system is changeover to Manual Mode. Depending on the initial operating point,
the excitation field current is first decreased to zero and the excitation stopped. This is only
possible when the 52G main unit breaker is opened.
At that stage, the power supply changeover is possible as well as the connection of the SM
windings to the SFC outputs. The excitation system does not manage those actions.
When ready, the excitation system is re-started with no-flashing, still in Manual mode and
the field current reference is preset to an adequate value (usually 80% of no-load current).
The SFC Electrical Braking sequence is completed when the excitation system stop demand
is initiated. This demand is either an Excit OFF if the Excit ON/OFF option is validated or a
normal stop demand from DCS, or Digital Input, or Operator Interface.

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 The SFC Electrical Braking sequence steps are detailed on the following flow chart.

Electrical Braking by SFC

The SFC Electrical Braking sequence can be interrupted by:

• An SFC stopping demand,
• An SFC Electrical Braking OFF demand,
• A normal stop of the excitation system,
• The closing of the 52G main unit breaker,
• The selection of the following other options: Back to Back starting selection.
When the sequence is interrupted, the excitation system returns to its normal stopped status
The excitation system power supply changeover is only possible when the excitation system
is in normal running or in normal stop. It is not possible during the flashing or starting phase.

4.4 Emergency Shut-Down

An emergency shut down can be selected either internally to the excitation system (Over-
voltage protection…) or externally by the generator protections.
In case an emergency shut-down is initiated, the excitation system stopes immediately:
• Pulses are stopped. There is no first application of inverter mode.
• 41-Field breaker is opened.
• Flashing control is disabled and flashing breaker opened (if a flashing was in progress).

Note Whatever the position of the 52G main unit breaker, in case of emergency shut-down,
the 41-field breaker is immediately opened.

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Notes

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