Methods of Determining the Regulation

Methods of Determining the Regulation

The regulation of an alternator can be determined by various methods. In case of small capacity alternators it can be determined by direct loading test while for large capacity alternators it can be determined by synchronous impedance method.

The synchronous impedance method has some short comings. Another method which is popularly used is ampere-turns method. But this method also has certain disadvantages. The disadvantages of these two methods are overcome in a method called zero power factor method. Another important theory which gives accurate results is called Blondel's two reaction theory. Thus there are following methods available to determine the voltage regulation of an alternator,

1. Synchronous impedance method or E.M.F. method

2. Ampere-turns method or M.M.F. method

3. Zero power factor method or Potier triangle method

4. ASA modified form of M.M.F. method

5. Two reaction theory.

Review Question

1. State the various methods of determining voltage regulation of an alternator.