Classification of Stability
Classification of Stability
Steady-State Stability:
Deals with small gradual disturbances. Analyzed using power-angle equations. Improved
with voltage regulators and stabilizers.
Transient Stability:
Deals with large sudden disturbances like faults. Analyzed using the Swing Equation and
equal area criterion. Improved by fast fault clearing, excitation control, and HVDC.
Dynamic Stability:
Involves small oscillations over time. Analyzed using eigenvalue analysis and damping ratios.
Improved using power system stabilizers.
Power system stability mainly concerned with rotor stability analysis. For this
various assumptions needed such as: For stability analysis balanced three phase system
and balanced disturbances are considered. Deviations of machine frequencies from
synchronous frequency are small. During short circuit in generator, dc offset and high
frequency current are present. But for analysis of stability, theses are neglected.
Network and impedance loads are at steady state. Hence voltages, currents
and powers can be computed from power flow equation.
Factors Affecting Transient Stability
Transient stability refers to the ability of a power system to maintain synchronism when
subjected to large disturbances such as faults, sudden load changes, or loss of generation.
The following factors significantly impact transient stability:
1. Inertia of the System (H)
Higher inertia (H) in generators increases transient stability. More kinetic energy storage
helps the system resist sudden disturbances.
2. Fault Clearing Time
Faster fault clearing improves transient stability. Delayed fault clearance increases rotor
angle deviation, leading to instability.
3. Fault Location & Severity
Nearer faults to the generator cause larger disturbances. Severe faults (3-phase faults) have
a greater impact compared to single-line faults.
4. System Reactance (X)
Higher transmission line reactance reduces power transfer capability, decreasing stability.
Lower reactance improves transient stability by allowing better power transfer.
5. Generator Internal Voltage (|E|)
A higher generator voltage improves transient stability. Voltage regulation helps maintain
system synchronism after disturbances.
6. Power Angle (δ) Before Fault
If the initial power angle δ0\delta_0 is high, the system is already near instability. A lower
initial angle allows more room for the rotor to swing and stabilize.
7. Excitation System Response
A fast and effective automatic voltage regulator (AVR) improves stability. Quick excitation
response helps maintain generator voltage after a disturbance.
8. Load Characteristics
Inductive loads cause more instability, while resistive loads help damp oscillations. Dynamic
loads like motors can worsen transient stability issues.
9. Use of Power System Stabilizers (PSS)
PSS helps damp oscillations and improves transient stability. Proper tuning of PSS enhances
damping of power swings.
Power System Stabilizer (PSS) with Automatic Voltage Regulator (AVR)
A Power System Stabilizer (PSS) is used in power systems to enhance damping of low-
frequency electromechanical oscillations (power swings) in generators. It works in
coordination with the Automatic Voltage Regulator (AVR) to improve system stability and
maintain synchronism during disturbances.
2. Principle of Power System Stabilizer (PSS)
A generator’s rotor oscillates due to disturbances, affecting system stability. PSS provides a
supplementary control signal to the AVR based on speed or power variations. The PSS
output modifies the excitation voltage to introduce damping torque, reducing oscillations.
This stabilizing effect improves the dynamic response of the power system.
3. Automatic Voltage Regulator (AVR)
The AVR is responsible for: Regulating the generator’s terminal voltage by controlling the
exciter field current. Ensuring system voltage stability under varying load conditions.
Improving system steady-state and transient performance.
Block Diagram of Power System Stabilizer (PSS) with AVR
PSS, in combination with AVR, plays a critical role in maintaining power system stability. It
modulates the excitation voltage to introduce damping torque, reducing power oscillations
and improving overall system reliability.
Applications of Direct Methods of Transient Energy Function (TEF) Approach in Practical
Power Systems
The Transient Energy Function (TEF) approach is a direct method used to assess power
system stability by evaluating the system’s energy state. Unlike time-domain simulations,
TEF provides a fast and analytical way to determine system stability margins. It is
particularly useful for large-scale power systems where real-time assessment is required.
The Transient Energy Function approach is a powerful tool for assessing and improving
transient stability in modern power systems. With the increasing complexity of power
networks, TEF-based techniques are becoming essential for real-time stability assessment,
renewable energy integration, and grid automation.