Transient Stability Analysis for Sohio Prudhoe Bay Emergency Power System

Small isolated automatic power systems of the types similar to the emergency power system at Prudhoe Bay are susceptible to stability problems. These power systems, having two or more generator sets operating in parallel with remarkably different mechanical and control characteristics, require transient stability analysis. The design of the Prudhoe Bay emergency power system is discussed, as are stability problems such as severe transient overload, voltage drop, and frequency drop, which are likely to occur and can cause catastrophic shutdowns during the emergency conditions. The conclusions drawn are that 1) a load sequencing and load blocking control scheme must be provided to control the automatic loads at Prudhoe Bay, and 2) stability analysis should be considered essential in the planning and design phases of similar power systems so that compatible generator units and appropriate load control schemes can be selected.