Retrofitting static exciter regulators for rotating exciter systems

The author reviews the various rotating exciter systems and their retrofitting to new static exciter excitation equipment. It is noted that, where rotary exciter rewinding and general excitation system upgrading is considered, the shunt static exciter regulator represents an attractive alternative to power plant life extension. Shunt static exciter/regulators can be suitably applied in any type of generator application, regardless of whether the primemover is steam, gas, hydro, or diesel driven. The shunt static exciter replaces the rotating exciter with power semiconductors sized to meet the full load requirements of the main generator field. It eliminates maintenance associated with the wire-wound rheostat, the electromechanical voltage regulator, and exciter commutators.<>