Auxiliary Drives :: Synchronising Packages
 |
| Zion Power Station - a decommissioned nuclear power plant close to Chicago, USA. In order to use the two 800MW generators as synchronous condensers the steam turbines were disconnected and an SSS Clutch added to each generator allowing a mobile motor/torque converter package to be coupled to the machine to drive the generator up to synchronous speed. In order to provide a turning drive a <duo concentric SSS Clutch> was used. |
 |
| The inside of Zion Power Station prior to installation of the SSS Clutches. |
SSS Clutches can be used to engage/disengage auxiliary drives to run electric motors/generators up to speed so that they can be connected to the grid.
Synchronising packages/SSS Clutches are used both for synchronous machines and large induction motors where the in rush current of starting a motor direct-on-line would be unacceptable.
Clutches can...
• Be stand alone/encased to allow one starter drive to be shared
between different machines.
• Incorporate a thrust bearing to position the generator rotor after
it has been disconnected from the axial bearing in the turbine.
• Incorporate a turning gear.