Power control specialist Excitation Engineering Services (EES) will deliver a presentation at the Steam Turbine and Generator User Group (STGUG) event at the Emirates Old Trafford Cricket Ground, Manchester, on March 13-14, 2024, to share valuable insights surrounding a rare motor failure. The presentation will highlight a case study of an incident involving a rotating diode short circuit failure during the commissioning of a new motor and excitation system.
In an uncommon occurrence, EES encountered a rare rotating diode short circuit failure during the commissioning process. This incident provided EES with a unique dataset, offering insights into the characteristics of the infrequent failure.
Highlighting a case study of the incident, the presentation will delve into the challenges faced and the extended timeline, emphasising the impact on commissioning. EES employed a collaborative three-pronged approach, involving on-site engineers, its own team, and the original manufacturer’s engineers, providing an effective problem-solving strategy.
“This rotating diode failure is rare, but sharing our experience and data is crucial for industry understanding,” explained Owen Crew, Graduate Electrical Engineer at EES who will be delivering the address at STGUG. “It emphasises the need for personalised approaches to enhance system reliability. A challenge like this shows the importance of using the engineering methodology. I hope sharing this information helps promote this philosophy”
During the motor synchronisation process, EES encountered initial challenges, prompting a thorough analysis. Engineering practices and meticulous data examination played a crucial role in pinpointing the issue. The focus was on the ripple current on the exciter field, a key parameter that led to identification of the problem.
EES confirmed the issue with the rotating diodes, addressing the complexities of accessing and rectifying them. This presented challenges, impacting the commissioning process and necessitating additional site visits for a comprehensive resolution. The team’s focused efforts ensured a thorough problem-solving approach, minimising disruptions and upholding the integrity of the overall commissioning timeline.
EES will use this event as an opportunity to emphasise a philosophy favouring bespoke approaches to enhance system reliability.
To gain valuable insights on this incident, and more, sign up for the STGUG at imeche.org, and to explore more about EES and its bespoke excitation system design visit excitationengineering.co.uk/commissioning.
