Caterpillar — Gain Setting - Adjust
Adjustments · CDVR PID / gain parameters
From a Caterpillar service manual — check it applies to your exact model before use.
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Before you start
- If available, use an inductive load. A resistive load is not the best way to adjust the voltage regulator's PID values.
Procedure
- Starting with the factory defaults (Kp = 200, Ki = 600, Td = 0, and Kg = 50), adjust Kg to achieve the desired response. If that response is not achievable, proceed to Step 2.
- Perform a "step of reference" test by recording the generator terminal voltage with a chart recorder or similar device. Limit the step sizes to 5% or less of terminal voltage.
- If the response is too slow, increase Ki. If the response is oscillatory or has a large amount of overshoot, decrease Ki or Kd.
- If the desired response is still not achievable, proceed to Step 3.
- If T'do and Te are known, use the PID calculator in order to obtain the starting PID values.
- If T'do is known but Te is not known, use the PID calculator with the default exciter time constant (Te = T'do/6).
- Start with Kp = 10, Ki = 2, Kd = 2, Td = 0, and Kg = 30. Increase Kg until the machine terminal voltage is approximately equal to the set value.
- Reduce Ki to 0.01; the terminal voltage should decrease. Adjust Kg in order to obtain 90% of set terminal voltage.
- With Kg set as determined in Step 4, set Kp = 40, Ki = 10, Kd = 10, and Td = 0. Perform a "step of reference" test, with no more than 5% per step.
- Adjust Kp to achieve 80% of the final value in the desired time frame; then increase Ki in order to get the desired response. If overshoot or ringing occurs, reduce Ki and then increase Kp, Ki, and Kd
Tools required
- Chart recorder or similar device Amazon
Tool links are Amazon searches (affiliate links); manufacturer special tools may only be available from a dealer.
Specs & values
- Factory defaults: Kp = 200, Ki = 600, Td = 0, Kg = 50
- Desired rise time 0.5 seconds to 1 second in most applications
- Kd, Kp recommended Td value less than 0.2 (Kd, Kp)
Source: Caterpillar service manual. Steps and values are as documented; always cross-check against the official manual and any later revisions for your exact serial number before servicing.