A tool for extracting synchronous machines parameters from the dc flux decay test

A novel computer system tool for the parameter estimation of mathematical synchronous-machine models is presented. It uses state-of-the-art information technology software. The tool allows the electrical power engineers to obtain the electrical parameters of a synchronous machine model. The practical usefulness of the developed system is demonstrated by obtaining the parameter set for conventional and high order d and q axis models from the dc flux decay test. The two-axis model parameters are estimated with the well-known maximum likelihood algorithm. The user can also validate its set of estimated parameters against experimental data. Consequently, a better behavior prediction of synchronous generators within a power system can be achieved. The tool was developed using LabVIEW as a software environment and a low cost data acquisition card, which has a user friendly interface. A solid salient-pole synchronous generator of 7 kVA was used to illustrate its practical impact of the proposed system, where acceptable accuracy in the set of estimated parameters was achieved. 2005 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.