A fundamental understanding of the operation, selection, and application of ac adjustable-speed drives on 2400 to 13 800 V auxiliary systems in electric power generation stations are provided in this guide. This guide applies to dc link type, ac adjustable-speed drives (ASDs) and does not address other drive systems such as cycloconverters. Included are overviews of ASD terminology, theory of operation, and a discussion of the factors that can influence equipment selection. Also defined are drive system classifications, design considerations, the interactions between the ASD and the electric supply system and the driven load, economic evaluation approaches, and typical applications. Finally, guidance on ASD specifications and installation are provided.

This guide applies to DC link type, AC adjustable speed drives (ASDs) as illustrated in Figure 1-1 and does not address other drive systems such as cycloconverters. The guide is intended to cover the application of drive systems for use in electric power generation stations designed for connection to electric service rated between 2400 volts and 13,800 volts. The guide includes ASD terminology, theory of operation, and a discussion of the factors that can influence equipment selection. It also defines drive system classifications and addresses typical applications. Drive system design considerations, and the interactions between the ASD and the supply system and the driven load are also discussed. Finally, guidance on ASD specifications and installation are provided.

The purpose of this Guide is to provide a fundamental understanding of the operation, selection, and application of ASDs for use in electric power generation plant motor-driven systems connected to electric service rated at 2400 volts to 13,800 volts.