Counter torque in electrical generators, also known as electromagnetic or load torque, depends on several factors:
- The counter torque is highly dependent on the amount of current being taken by the load connected to the generator. When load currents are higher, the counter torque value shall also be high.
- As it was explained counter torque is dependant on the strength of the magnetic field within generator. This field is generally produced by the rotor’s magnetic poles and stronger fields will call for higher counter torque.
- As for counter torque, it has been noted that the field created by the rotation of the rotor interacts with the field produced by the current in the stator (armature) windings. Armature reaction can either act to weaken or strengthen the net magnetic field which in turn affects the torque.
- Counter torque depends on the type of mechanical load connected to the generator as well as the magnitude of mechanical load. With an increase in mechanical load the required electrical power by the generator rises, thus the counter torque rises.
- The various constructions that define the generator including the number of turns or windings, the material used in the core, and the shape of the magnetic circuit have bearing to counter torque.
- The counter torque is also affected by the spinning speed of the generator’s rotor as well as the network strength of the transmission line. Conventionally when load is applied the counter torque at a given speed increases.
- Another factor which has an impact on the counter torque is the power factor which appears at AC power systems and denotes the phase discrepancy of voltage and current. A load with a lower power factor (more of a reactive load) will produce a greater counter torque compared to just a pure resistance load.
For this reason, it is essential to have a detail of understanding of these factors when designing, operating and even troubleshooting electrical generator.
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