Mitigation of Asymmetrical Grid Faults in Induction Generator-Based Wind Turbines Using Constant Power Load

• Main Authors: Marta Molinas, Nadeem Jelani
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: MDPI AG 2013-03-01
• Series: Energies
• Subjects: constant power loads; distributed energy systems; induction generators; asymmetrical grid faults; power electronics; reactive power control; voltage source converters; vector oriented control
• Online Access: http://www.mdpi.com/1996-1073/6/3/1700

Constant power loads (CPLs), interfaced through active rectifiers can be used for improving the stability of induction generator (IG)-based wind turbines under balanced grid voltage dips by providing the reactive power. Under asymmetrical grid faults, the negative sequence voltage produces additional generator torque oscillations and reduces the lifetime of the installed equipment. This article explores the possibility of using a CPL for mitigation of unbalanced voltage dips in an AC distribution system in addition to consuming a constant active power. Unbalanced fault mitigation as an ancillary service by the load itself could greatly increase the stability and performance of the overall power system. A CPL control structure, capable of controlling the positive and negative sequence of the grid voltage is suggested. The simulation results clearly indicate the effects of compensating the positive and negative sequence of the grid voltage on the performance of IG based wind turbines. The maximum Fault Ride Through (FRT) enhancement has been given priority and is done by the compensation of positive sequence voltage. The remaining CPL current capacity is used to compensate the negative sequence voltage in order to reduce the additional torque ripples in the IG.