Alberta Boilers Safety Association (ABSA) Practice Test

What does an exciter field current meter indicate?

1. Power produced by the generator

2. DC current supplied to generator field windings

3. Reactive power generated by AC systems

4. Reactive power generated by DC systems

The correct answer is: DC current supplied to generator field windings

An exciter field current meter provides critical information about the direct current supplied to the generator's field windings. This current is essential for generating the magnetic field necessary for the operation of the generator. An adequate level of field current ensures the generator can produce a stable output voltage and maintain its overall performance. Understanding that the exciter helps regulate the voltage output from the generator means that the field current directly correlates to the ability of the generator to function efficiently. By monitoring this current, operators can determine if the excitation system is operating correctly and adjust it as needed to meet load demands. The other options involve concepts that are not directly associated with the function of an exciter field current meter. For example, the power produced by the generator is a result of the overall operation, including the field current, but the meter itself does not directly measure this. Similarly, reactive power generation relates more to alternating current systems and does not pertain to the function of a meter that focuses on direct current in the field winding.