Evaluation of excitation capacitance for a single-phase two winding self excited induction generator

Self excited induction generators (SEIGs) are being increasingly called in service for renewable energy applications. They are incapable of generating reactive power and hence their reactive power is invariably supplied by capacitors connected across their magnetizing circuit. Therefore, the foremost design constraint of SEIGs is the evaluation of optimum excitation capacitance which fulfills their reactive power requirements for variable loading conditions. This paper presents a detailed steady state modeling and analysis of a single phase, two winding SEIG to evaluate its optimum excitation capacitance for resistive as well as inductive static loads. The steady state model of SEIG is developed through Matlab M file. Validation of simulation results is carried out through experimental tests on a single phase prime mover driven induction motor operated as SEIG.