During the Spring of 1998, Commonwealth Edison Company successfully modified two retired 1220 Mva nuclear generators for operation as synchronous condensers. This presentation will discuss the planning studies which identified the need for the synchronous condenser, alternative starting mechanisms considered, and operational issues and experience with the synchronous condenser.
The justification for the synchronous condenser was demonstrated by planning studies which showed the critical need for voltage support after the Zion generators were retired. The synchronous condensers enabled ComEd to maintain voltage stability margins to the same level as before the generators were retired.
During the design stage, one of the biggest challenges in the conversion to synchronous condenser was designing the starting mechanism. Several alternatives were investigated, including utilization of a starting motor to accelerate the generators to synchronous speed, and utilization of a variable frequency drive to accelerate the generator from a standstill.
The first synchronous condenser was synchronized ahead of schedule on May 25, 1998. The second unit was synchronized on June 2, 1998. The synchronous condensers proved to be a very valuable asset during operation during the summer of 1998. Operation of the synchronous condensers enabled ComEd to maintain adequate voltage stability margins throughout the summer.
Ray Cameron works for ComEd in Chicago. His current position is as an Equipment Specialist in the Technical Services Area where he shares responsibility for the technical requirements of large power transformers on the ComEd system. Ray has worked for ComEd since 1972 (26 years). Prior to his current position, Ray was involved with large rotating machinery (motors and generators) and isolated phase bus duct at ComEd's generating stations. Over the years he has also worked at Zion Station, State Line Station (fossil), the Station Electrical Engineering Department and the Operational Analysis Department (electrical testing).
Ray is a graduate of the University of Illinois at Chicago Circle, where he received a B.S. in Engineering.
Tom Kay works for ComEd in Chicago. His current position in Technical Studies Director in the Transmission & Distribution Planning Department. In this position, he is responsible for special system studies such as stability and switching transient studies; equipment, line and cable ratings; and computer support for engineering analysis. Tom has worked for ComEd since 1980 (18 years). Prior to his current position, Tom was involved with the development and implementation of EMS and SCADA systems, distribution automation, automated meter reading, and other engineering positions.
Tom is a graduate of the University of Illinois in Urbana-Champaign, where he received a B.S. and M.S. in Electrical Engineering. Tom is a Registered Professional Engineer in the State of Illinois.
| Location | Time | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| Chicago Bar Association | 11:30 AM | Social | |
| 321 South Plymouth Court | 12:00 PM | Lunch (optional) | |
| (near Jackson & Dearborn) | 12:15 PM | Presentation | |
| Chicago, IL 60604 | 1:00 PM | Adjourn | |
| 312-554-2000 |