Speed Regulation — Primary Function of a Governor Evaluate the statement: “The function of a governor is to keep the engine speed uniform at all load conditions.” Choose the most appropriate assessment.

Introduction:
Governors are automatic speed-control devices used on engines and turbines. Their role is to modulate the energy input when load changes so that speed remains essentially constant, protecting generators, pumps, and driven equipment from harmful deviations.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Engine or prime mover with variable load.
• Governor senses speed (or frequency) and adjusts fuel/steam/flow accordingly.
• Steady-state control objective: maintain near-constant speed within allowable band.

Concept / Approach:
In control terms, the governor closes the loop between measured speed and actuator position. When load increases, speed tends to fall; the governor increases input to restore speed. When load decreases, the governor reduces input. Idealized wording says “keep speed uniform,” which practically means maintaining speed within tight limits across load changes.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Define objective: regulate mean speed against disturbances (load steps).Mechanism: centrifugal/speed-sensing element produces an error signal; linkage or servos adjust input valve or rack.Outcome: speed remains nearly constant, meeting the intent of “uniform.”

Verification / Alternative check:
Speed–load curves with governing show small droop or isochronous behavior depending on design; both aim at near-uniform speed despite load variations.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

• “Incorrect”: dismisses the accepted purpose of governors.
• “Only for isochronous”: non-isochronous governors also keep speed effectively uniform with permissible droop.
• “Only during starting”: incorrect; governing is continuous during operation.

Common Pitfalls:
Equating “uniform” with mathematically constant. Real governors permit small speed droop or deadband; this does not negate their function.

Final Answer:
Correct