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The increasing use of induction motors (IMs) with variable frequency drives for industrial process control and automation has necessitated the need to evaluate their energy efficiency in the presence of voltage and current harmonics. As the determination of IM efficiency is becoming mandatory in many countries, there is a need to develop a testing approach that eliminates inaccuracies due to the operator. This paper presents an automated efficiency testing procedure developed to mitigate the adverse effect of varying technical skill and competence levels of testing personnel on efficiency test results. This is a particularly useful development considering the recently proposed IEC/TS 60034-2-3 methodology which specifies identical tests between sinusoidal supply and converter operation. A comparison of several manual and automated efficiency tests on a 55-kW IM highlighted improvements in repeatability, correlation, and temperature variation due to the latter. In addition, the advanced data acquisition and computation capability of the measurement device used in the developed test rig provides an excellent platform to investigate the dynamic operation of IM drives. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In a common dc-link dual-fed open-end winding permanent magnet synchronous motor (OEW-PMSM) topology, it is well known how the additional flow of a zero-sequence current (ZSC) is permitted. The low zero-sequence impedance characteristic of high-speed machines leads to high-intensity and high-frequency ripple of the ZSC. Therefore, there is a necessity to eliminate the zero-sequence-voltage (ZSV) produced by the two voltage source converters that feed the machine. Furthermore, the non-sinusoidal back electromagnetic force (back EMF) causes the circulation of a third harmonic ZSC. An OEW-PMSM high-speed starter-generator fed by a dual-inverter with a single dc-link is considered. Part I of this paper proposes a modulation for the considered topology able to eliminate instantaneously the ZSV produced. In this paper, a detailed analysis of the deadtime (DT) effect on the ZSV has been carried out and a novel hysteresis control for the ZSC using the DT as a control action is presented. The DT produces a ZSV distortion on the zero-axis that can be used to control the third harmonic ZSC flowing due to the non-sinusoidal machine back EMF. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The goal of the paper is to develop a hybrid modulation technique to combine space vector modulation (SVM) scheme and synchronous optimal pulsewidth modulation (SOPWM) technique for current source inverter (CSI). SVM provides better dynamic performance, but is unable to produce less total harmonic distortion (THD) on inverter current at low device switching frequency ($< $ 1 kHz). SOPWM provides less THD even at low device switching frequency, however it needs a conversion technique to operate CSI and it needs an additional control technique to improve dynamic performance. Hence to overcome these limitations, this paper develops a single modulation technique called optimal SVM technique that can achieve less THD as well as better dynamic performance. To develop optimal SVM technique, three methods have been proposed in this paper. These three methods do not require an additional conversion technique to operate CSI and they provide less THD even under low device switching frequency of 450 Hz. Experimental results prove that the proposed modulation technique can provide better steady-state performance as well as dynamic performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper proposes a single-phase ac–dc–ac converter composed of a transformer and two three-leg converters connected in series. The proposed converter allows to supply the load with a voltage with constant amplitude and frequency, and to operate with the grid current with low harmonic distortion and high power factor. In addition, the converter can be used to mitigate fundamental overvoltage and voltage harmonics at the grid. The system model, regions of operation, a power flow analysis, and a method to regulate the dc-link voltages using the voltage vector redundancies are given. In the first version of this paper, two pulsewidth modulation (PWM) techniques (including space vector PWM) and a control system were provided. The proposed topology is compared with two conventional systems in terms of operation range, harmonic distortions, and semiconductor losses. Simulation and experimental results are provided to validate the feasibility of the system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents a dual active bridge (DAB) converter with reactive power control capability (Q-capability) for a battery energy storage system (BESS) or an electric vehicle (EV) to deliver vehicle-to-home (V2H) and vehicle-to-grid (V2G) services. The DAB topology is preferable for EV charging systems due to its galvanic isolation and bidirectional power flow capabilities. However, this topology increases reactive current peak and loses zero voltage switching (ZVS) operation at light loads if it is not controlled with improved modulation strategies and proper Q control. This paper proposes a mixed modulation method and a reactive power optimization (RPO) algorithm based on power system load flow concepts. Due to the complexities associated with the analytical solution using time domain analysis, this paper develops detailed universal expressions of a DAB converter using the harmonic analysis method. Analytical identification of ZVS boundaries and DSP implementation of the RPO algorithm become easier with these universal expressions. Multiple modes analysis for different operational states is no longer required. Simulation results have been shown for different modulation strategies of the DAB converters. The theoretical analysis of modulation strategies, RPO algorithm and ZVS operation are validated by experimental results on a DAB prototype. Results show that the proposed control strategy reduces the reactive power and provide ZVS operation over a wide ranges of voltages. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This is the second of a two-paper series, in which the field-data-based analytical method proposed in Part I has been extended to determine the amount of harmonic currents absorbed by the shunt harmonic filters of the iron and steel (I&S) plants from the rest of the system. The nonlinear characteristics of the plants and the utility are modeled as harmonic current sources, whereas the linear parts of the proposed extended model consist of passive circuit elements, with the harmonic filter $RLC$ circuit parameters also integrated into the model. This extended method, which can be also used for harmonic contribution assessments, requires sample-by-sample time-synchronized harmonic current measurements inside the plants and at the point of common coupling (PCC). It eliminates the need for harmonic voltage measurements at the expense of the need for inside-plant measurements. It has been verified both by computer simulations and by application on field data. The results have shown that the proposed method is a successful tool to determine the magnitude of harmonic currents that are absorbed by the harmonic filters of I&S plants connected to the PCC, particularly when measured harmonic currents of I&S plants exceed the actual contributions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The grid voltage information such as the phase-angle, the frequency, and the amplitude is crucial for the design of synchronization and control of power converters in the micro-grid. The conventional approach to estimate the grid voltage information is accomplished by phase-locked loop (PLL) techniques. Among various existing PLL techniques, filter-based PLLs can provide more accurate estimations even under adverse grid conditions. In this paper, a new single-phase filtering technique based on multiple delayed signal cancellation (MDSC) is proposed for extracting both in-phase and quadrature components of the selected harmonic order of the single-phase grid voltage signal. This MDSC technique can be realized in both the direct-form and the recursive-form. In comparison with existing single-phase cascaded delayed signal cancellation (CDSC) techniques, this MDSC technique utilizes less memory for the extraction of grid voltage fundamental frequency component. The proposed MDSC filter can be applied as a pre-filter to the enhanced PLL (EPLL) for the prompt and accurate estimations of the grid voltage information under adverse grid conditions. Both frequency adaptive and non-adaptive MDSC-based EPLL schemes are proposed in this paper. To validate the effectiveness of the proposed methods, experiments are conducted on the MDSC-based EPLLs and compared with the CDSC-EPLL under various grid voltage disturbances. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents a neutral-point deviation and ripple compensating control method applied to a three-level neutral-point-clamped (NPC) converter. The neutral-point deviation and its harmonic components are analyzed with a focus on the average current flowing through the neutral-point of the dc link. This paper also proposes a control scheme compensating for the neutral-point deviation and dominant harmonic components under generalized unbalanced grid operating conditions. The positive and negative sequence components of the switching functions and ac input currents are employed to accurately explain the behavior of three-level NPC converter. Simulation and experimental results are presented to verify the validity of the proposed method. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There has been increasing interest in solid-state transformers (SSTs) as a future replacement for conventional distribution transformers as it is able to provide ancillary services in addition to step-up/step-down of voltages. In SSTs, a common topology used in the ac–dc stage is the cascaded H-bridge (CHB) multilevel converter. This paper proposes a novel dual-model predictive control method for the CHB multilevel converter with faster dynamic response, improved harmonic performance, and voltage balancing of the CHB cells. The primary model enables conventional control over source current and output voltages, whereas the secondary model is able to generate the reference source current through power modeling, which eliminates the need for a proportion-integral (PI) controller, thus resulting in faster dynamic response. A Luenberger-based observer is also implemented to estimate the dc load current in each CHB cell. The second-order harmonic notch filter and the CHB cell dc voltage balancing cost function aim at improving the performance of the source current and CHB cell dc voltages, respectively. The proposed control techniques are then validated under steady-state and transient conditions through simulation and experiment with a laboratory prototype. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents a simplified implementation technique for direct torque control (DTC) of asymmetric six-phase induction motor drive. Current harmonics of fifth and seventh order are observed in the phase currents if conventional DTC scheme is extended for the asymmetric six-phase machine. These harmonic components are not responsible for torque production, thus causing losses in the motor winding. Synthetic vectors are generally used for reduction of current harmonics. Average voltage in $xy$ subspace is maintained to zero by synthetic vectors leading to reduction of currents in $xy$ subspace. A simplified method of implementation of synthetic vectors is proposed in this paper, which eliminates the need for designing of switching sequence and requirement of field-programmable gate array. Also, the number of synthetic vectors that can be possibly produced is increased compared with the ones developed by techniques available in the literature. The experimentation is carried out on a laboratory-developed prototype and the experimental results are presented in this paper to verify the proposed scheme. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

For modular permanent magnet (PM) machines with overlapping (OLP) windings widely employed in wind power generation, the large torque ripple and long end winding are major issues. In order to solve these problems, PM machines with non-overlapping (NOLP) windings and redundant teeth for easy modularity are proposed in this paper. The comparative study between modular machines with these two kinds of windings is necessary and is the major focus of this paper. For the sake of clarity, two modular dual 3-phase machines with 42-slots/32-poles (42S/32P) and 192S/32P combinations are chosen as examples to show the differences in terms of machine performance. The proposed 42S/32P modular machine adopts NOLP winding, while the conventional 192S/32P one uses the OLP type. Based on the results, it is found that the modular machine with NOLP winding has comparable average torque and efficiency. In the meantime, much lower torque ripple exists for the proposed modular machine regardless of the current value. The shorter and simpler end windings are beneficial to manufacturability. Moreover, the proposed modular machine with NOLP winding will be more fault tolerant due to smaller mutual inductances between phases and larger d-axis inductance. Finally, the proposed 42S/32P modular machine is prototyped and the experiments validate the correctness of the analyses in this paper. Despite two specific examples being used, the conclusion should be generic and can be employed to modular machines with other slot and pole number combinations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The use of power converters is very important in maximizing the power transfer from renewable energy sources such as wind, solar, or even a hydrogen-based fuel cell to the utility grid. An LCL filter is often used to interconnect an inverter to the utility grid in order to filter the harmonics produced by the inverter. Although there is an extensive amount of literature available describing LCL filters, there has been a gap in providing a systematic design methodology. Furthermore, there has been a lack of a state-space mathematical modeling approach that considers practical cases of delta- and wye-connected capacitors showing their effects on possible grounding alternatives. This paper describes a design methodology of an LCL filter for grid-interconnected inverters along with a comprehensive study of how to mitigate harmonics. The procedures and techniques described in this paper may be used in small-scale renewable energy conversion systems and may be also retrofitted for medium- and large-scale grid-connected systems. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

This paper proposes a new method for measurement-based modeling of nonlinear loads in power systems. The proposed method includes a combination of a binary tree algorithm with nonlinear autoregressive with exogenous input (NARX) identification. This paper demonstrates that the new method performs well without any prior knowledge of the system structure. In contrast to other load modeling methods, which are typically aimed for particular studies or load types, the proposed method can be used with any load type and for any study. Accurate load modeling is particularly important for studies of industrial networks and grids. In the study described, a field data set was collected at a mine site from a large electrical rope shovel. This data set has been used to develop a model of the rope shovel based on the proposed binary tree—NARX algorithm. When compared to other known methods, such as wavelet and sigmoid networks, the proposed method has shown the fastest training time and the highest accuracy. Finally, the modeling results have been verified against another set of field measurements from an existing network and have shown a very good agreement. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

A drive train system (DTS) powered by an ideal voltage source and driving a permanent-magnet synchronous motor (PMSM) is discussed in this paper. A two-level three-phase voltage source inverter is used as a means of power conditioning. This converter is not equipped with any harmonic filters on neither the ac nor the dc side. The mechanical part of the DTS is modeled as a double oscillator according to a drive train in an electric vehicle (EV). Various inverter modulation schemes are applied, namely, a single-phase hysteresis scheme, two-space vector-based hysteresis control schemes, for one, a stator aligned hysteresis and for another, a rotor aligned hysteresis, a modulation scheme based on pulsewidth modulation (PWM), such as sinusoidal modulation (including zero-sequence components) and space-vector pulsewidth modulation (SVPWM). The hysteresis-based pulsing methods are nondeterministic and build a current controller in their structure by nature. The other pulsing methods are deterministic due to their underlying PWM and require a separate control unit. The influence of these modulation schemes on the performance of the DTS is determined by assessing the level of inverter generated harmonics flowing to the PMSM and to the tires [downforce, (mechanical part)] as well as the resulting switching frequency (electrical part). The simulated results presented in the paper indicate that the pulsing frequency can be reduced by means of the hysteresis controller. In addition, the dispersion of the harmonic energy of the inverter generated spectrum partly compensate the absence of filters. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

This paper investigates a method to increase fuel economy of motors for an electric vehicle (EV) traction system. The low-torque region of an EV motor is frequently used in everyday urban driving and in fuel economy measurement. Pulsewidth modulation (PWM) carrier harmonic iron loss accounts for a high percentage of total loss for EV motors in this region. This paper reveals the relationship between phase current and carrier harmonic iron loss for a permanent-magnet synchronous motor (PMSM) in the low-torque region. Thus, a novel carrier harmonic loss reduction technique is proposed and applied to two sets of three-phase windings for a concentrated winding PMSM. The loss is successfully reduced in a 70-kW EV motor as well as a two-dimensional finite-element method (2-D-FEM) calculation. The efficiency of the developed motor is calculated and compared with that of a conventional motor in the JC08 mode driving cycle. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

This paper deals with the design and testing of an interior permanent-magnet (IPM) machine that exhibits advanced features. It adopts fractional-slot (FS) nonoverlapped coil windings that reduces the end winding length, i.e., the Joule losses and machine cost. As a consequence, higher rated current can be supplied so that higher torque density and higher efficiency in a wide operating region can be reached. The rotor saliency increases the performance in flux-weakening operating region and the fault-tolerance capability. In order to decrease the torque ripple, it is important to minimize the interaction between the magnetomotive force (MMF) harmonics due to the stator currents and the rotor anisotropy. To do that, the winding has been optimized so as to minimize the MMF harmonics, taking advantage from the higher degree of freedom of the four-layer winding. However, the so-called slot-harmonics cannot be minimized by rearranging the winding coils. Hence, the rotor geometry has been designed so as to minimize the impact of such slot-harmonics. A 12-slot 10-pole IPM FS machine has been designed and manufactured. The experimental tests confirm the expectations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The brushless doubly fed reluctance machine (BDFRM) with a multibarrier rotor has shown great promise in applications where high reliability and low maintenance cost are required, such as offshore wind turbines. This paper presents a systematic analytical analysis and performance characterization of the BDFRM with a multibarrier rotor. First, the airgap magnetomotive force distributions under both open circuit and loaded condition are detailed, based on which a more practical rule than the widely accepted |p1 − p2|≠1 is derived to effectively avoid the unbalanced magnetic pull in such machines. Analytical formulas different from those for slip-ring doubly fed induction machines are then obtained to estimate inductance parameters for circuit modeling and control purposes. Design equations for initial sizing and torque density comparison are also developed, with achievable torque density discussed. Both finite-element analysis and experimental tests are conducted to validate the effectiveness of the presented analysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Declining extraction costs and process efficiencies have incented the revival of the oil and gas sector postrecession. The application of drilling rigs has been done more efficiently. These loads are very large, temporary in nature, and mobile. The drilling of each well can be done as quickly as a few hours and typically not more than a few days. These massive loads are complex to own, maintain, and operate, as a result few specialized drillers share the market. Because of the requirements for variable speed and control, drilling rigs are driven by variable frequency drives (VFDs), which are in their clear majority of older technologies such as six-pulse thyristor bridge or SCR-driven motors. These technologies are known to impose steep ramp rates (up and down) as well as rich harmonic content and variable, typically low, power factor. Furthermore, the locations of drilling rigs are typically remote, where distribution systems, if present, are weak, which lead to large background voltage distortions when such loads are present. This paper presents measurements, simulations, and analytical assessments of the characteristics and effects of harmonics and interharmonics (IHs) generated by top-drive and mud-pump VFDs in a large drilling rig operated in Alberta, Canada. Measurement results reveal very high harmonic and IH generation. To further refine the impact assessment of these harmonic emissions, the harmonic attenuation effect of the VFDs is quantified to avoid overestimating the harmonic generation of the loads. The thermal impact of the current harmonics on the coupling transformer is also quantified. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Grid-connected voltage source converter is used to control the flow of active power from renewable energy sources with several functionalities, such as harmonic mitigation, reactive power compensation, and power factor improvement. The reference current calculation and its accuracy decide the performance of the control algorithms during harmonic disturbances. Fundamental signal extraction techniques are utilized to overcome the disturbances present in the system voltage and current. This paper presents a novel orthogonal current decomposition control for load current decomposition into active and reactive components. These current components are obtained through character of orthogonal vector in the inner product space. The block diagram of the proposed technique is implemented with the help of adder, multiplier, and windowed integrator. Phase voltage and load current for each phase are used as inputs to this functional diagram for getting desired fundamental active current signal. Subsequently, adjustable dc-link voltage control is also presented to diminish the switching losses in the converter and to avoid the false tripping of the grid-connected system during susceptible grid conditions. The proposed control technique is simulated in MATLAB/Simulink and verified through developed hardware prototype using ARM Cortex M4-based microcontroller (STM32F407VGT6) using Waijung environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, a dual-fed (DF) common dc-link topology open-end winding permanent magnet synchronous motor for aircraft high-speed starter–generator application is considered. While on one hand the common dc bus configuration significantly simplifies and reduces the costs of the topology, on the other hand it allows the zero-sequence current (ZSC) to flow freely in the system. High-speed machines are characterized by low phase inductance, which implies low zero-sequence impedance. A small time constant of the zero-sequence circuit produces a high-frequency, high-intensity ZSC ripple with the risk of harming the switching devices. This paper presents a novel hybrid space vector pulsewidth modulation that allows to instantaneously eliminate the zero-sequence voltage (ZSV) produced by the two voltage source converters (VSCs) by square wave modulating one of the two VSCs. The non-sinusoidal machine back electromotive force (EMF) has been considered and the effect of the converters’ dead time on the ZSV has been analyzed. The square-wave-modulated VSC uses insulated-gate bipolar transistor (IGBT) devices, whereas the other uses Silicon Carbide (SiC) technology. The proposed topology is tested through both simulations and experiments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With the deepening of electricity market reform in China, the competition in the electricity retail market becomes increasingly intense. Electricity retailers (ERs) need to explore new business models to enhance their competitiveness in the retail market. Meanwhile, with the improvement of industrial production and people's living standards, more and more nonlinear electrical equipment have been put into use, leading to severe harmonic pollution problems. Harmonic pollution causes loss of electricity, resulting in the economic loss of customers, especially for large industrial customers. In the above contexts, this paper proposes a novel business model that incorporates harmonic control as a value-added service into electricity retail contracts for utility-owned ERs. Both utility-owned ERs and customers can benefit from the designed business model. For customers, it helps them to improve the power quality while saving the electricity cost. For ERs, it helps them to cultivate the customer loyalty and improve the customer satisfaction. A case study is performed to demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed business model. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper investigates the rotor cavity positioning and the combination of stator slot and rotor effective slot number on the eddy-current loss for interior permanent-magnet/reluctance machines operating under deep field-weakening conditions. A new closed-form expression for the stator and rotor eddy-current loss is developed. The optimal barrier-positioning for the minimum total loss and the effect on the eddy-current loss of varying the stator slot and rotor effective slot number are investigated for one-, two-, three-, and full-layered rotors. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

In this paper, the ringed-pole surface-mounted permanent-magnet machine is investigated from the point of view of the ring losses. The rings around the poles create a high-frequency anisotropy that is useful to detect the rotor position by means of a high-frequency signal injection. However, the presence of the rings causes additional rotor losses. The causes of ring losses are investigated in the paper. The first cause is the high-frequency signal injection itself. The harmonics in the airgap magnetomotive force, which are not synchronous with the rotor and hence induce currents in the rings, are the second source of losses. The third source is the airgap flux fluctuation due to stator slotting. Machines of different sizes and winding types are investigated. A finite-element analysis and an analytical model are used to estimate the ring losses, comparing the results. The influence of the ring cross-sectional area on the ring losses is analyzed, showing that the ring losses can be reduced in certain configurations. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Large induction motors used in variable speed industrial applications (digging, traction, etc.) undergo dynamic stresses at high power levels. Their lifetime is reduced as compared with constant speed motors and downtime costs are very high. To monitor the condition of such motors, advanced sensor instrumentation is considered, including installation of Hall effect flux sensors inside the motor airgap. Such an advanced instrumentation enables continuous measurement of the airgap flux in both time and space domains simultaneously. This allows for advanced fault detection algorithms. This paper presents a method for early diagnosis of stator turn-to-turn faults and static eccentricity, and differentiation between these two conditions. The paper demonstrates that the proposed method detects, localizes, and quantifies both faults with high accuracy and sensitivity. Furthermore, each fault can be detected at an incipient stage and its development can be predicted. The results of the presented study have been supported by both simulation and experimental results obtained on a laboratory scale induction motor. Based on the results presented in the paper, a real-time condition monitoring system has been developed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Most of the existing electrical techniques of condition monitoring and fault diagnosis are based on frequency analysis of signals measured externally to the motor. In this paper, it is proposed to add the space dimension to the measured signals by using an array of Hall effect flux sensors installed inside the motor air gap, and to explore the advantages brought by such an instrumentation. The paper presents analytical models of air gap flux density expressed in terms of time and space, for a healthy motor and for a motor with rotor bar faults and mixed eccentricity. Based on these models, the paper proposes a new technique for early detection of rotor bar faults and mixed eccentricity, and for discrimination between them. The paper demonstrates that, with the help of the proposed technique, the severity of each fault and its location relative to rotor or stator can be accurately established. The results of the presented study are supported by simulations and validated by experiments on a laboratory scale induction motor. The formulated fault diagnosis algorithm is suitable for real-time implementation. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

This paper discusses and compares phase-shifted pulse-width modulation (PS-PWM) and level-shifted PWM (LS-PWM) in a modular multilevel single-delta bridge-cell (SDBC) inverter for utility-scale grid-tied photovoltaic applications. This three-phase SDBC inverter provides the capability of operating even under power-distribution imbalances not only among three clusters, but also among cascaded bridge cells in each cluster. The main focus of this research lies in analyzing the capability of operation under severe power-distribution imbalances and presenting power-balancing methods based on zero-sequence current injection, which result in an extended power-balancing capability. This paper highlights that LS-PWM is superior to PS-PWM in both power-balancing capability and harmonic performance at the ac side of the SDBC inverter when operating under power-distribution imbalances. Experimental results obtained from a three-phase 10-kW downscaled system show good agreement with those from the theoretical analysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper deals with a modified technique for the recognition of single stage and multiple power quality (PQ) disturbances. An algorithm based on Stockwell's transform and artificial neural network-based classifier and a rule-based decision tree is proposed in this paper. The analysis and classification of single stage PQ disturbances consisting of both events and variations such as sag, swell, interruption, harmonics, transients, notch, spike, and flicker are presented. Moreover, the proposed algorithm is also applied on multiple PQ disturbances such as harmonics with sag, swell, flicker, and interruption. A database of these PQ disturbances based on IEEE-1159 standard is generated in MATLAB for simulation studies. The proposed algorithm extracts significant features of various PQ disturbances using S-transform, which are used as input to this hybrid classifier for the classification of PQ disturbances. Satisfactory results of effective recognition and classification of PQ disturbances are obtained with the proposed algorithm. Finally, the proposed method is also implemented on real-time PQ events acquired in a laboratory to confirm the validity of this algorithm in practical conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Dynamic control over real and reactive power flow is one of the key areas of concern for the modern grid. Traditional FACTS-based devices have proven to be too costly and complex to achieve any significant market penetration. Modifying existing transmission assets to make them controllable may be a cost-effective method of increasing the grid controllability. Controllable network transformers (CNTs) have been theoretically shown to be an effective real and reactive power flow controller. However, the CNT is shown to produce unwanted third harmonic voltages and currents in the system, which must be handled. In this paper, the use of a hybrid active filter (HAF) is proposed for this purpose. This paper discusses the approach for design and control of such an integrated CNT-HAF system. It is shown that the integrated CNT-HAF system can also mitigate system unbalance, apart from providing four-quadrant control capability. Furthermore, this paper also presents experimental results of an integrated CNT-HAF system, rated at 200 kVA and 2400 V. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

The main drawback of reluctance machines is a high torque ripple, due to the interaction between the stator magnetomotive force and the rotor structure. Adopting a rotor configuration characterized by several flux barriers per pole, there is a high influence of the rotor geometry on the machine performance in terms of both average torque and ripple. An optimization is often required to determine the optimal rotor geometry so as to achieve a high and smooth torque. Then, the geometry determined earlier should guarantee good performance for various operating points (i.e., changing the current amplitude and phase), as well as for small variations of the geometry. This paper investigates this aspect, showing the results of optimizations carried out on various machines. The impact of the geometry parameters is taken into account, and the sensitivity of the optimal solution to the geometry variation is pointed out. This paper highlights the difficulty to get a robust geometry as far as the torque ripple reduction is concerned. Finally, a few experimental results on a synchronous reluctance motor prototype will be presented, compared with finite-element analysis simulations for validation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper investigates the influence of external radial load applied to the shaft on bearing fault detection based on vibration or current in induction motors operating under different conditions. This paper details the results of a laboratory trial comprising different test sets on the condition monitoring and fault diagnostic of a six-poles induction motor using a design of experiment (DOE) approach. The dedicated test setup comprises a custom-made fixture that allows us to dynamically vary the radial load applied to the output shaft. The aim is to investigate the effects of radial load on the fault diagnosis of shaft bearings and the interactions between other operating parameters, such as output torque. Specific scalar parameters have been proposed for the condition monitoring of the test motor from vibration and current data. The correct choice of the significant parameters is proven by the strong dependence on the damage returned by DOE results. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

In the field of permanent magnet synchronous motor (PMSM) self-sensing control, the initial rotor position estimation is always important, for which the rotor magnetic polarity estimation is particularly a major task. This paper presents a robust rotor polarity estimation method based on the comprehensive utility of both magnetic saturation effect and rotor angular acceleration. The method can be used for the PMSM system for the fan or pumplike applications. In the method, pulsating-voltage-vector injection is used to track the $\boldsymbol d$-axis and measure the incremental inductance variation of the estimated $\boldsymbol d$ -axis. The magnetic saturation effect is magnified by exciting a sinusoidal low-frequency $\boldsymbol d$-axis current rather than the traditional dc current. The angular acceleration is then measured by exciting a positive ramp $\boldsymbol q$-axis current. Both the incremental inductance variation and the angular acceleration contain the rotor polarity information. In this paper, these two methods are combined, as the latter method is to confirm the estimation of the former method. Thus, a robust self-sensing startup is guaranteed. Experimental results validate the effectiveness of the proposed algorithm. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

This paper proposes a novel detached winding configuration for asymmetric six-phase double-stator axial flux permanent magnet machines aiming at fault-tolerant applications. Due to the machine unique double-stator structure, the six-phase winding can be separated into two three-phase windings with 30 electrical degree angle shift and arranged in different stators, which is the basic idea of the detached winding. In this paper, the connection of detached six-phase winding is first given, followed by a comprehensive comparison of the conventional six-phase winding and the detached winding in aspect such as the winding factor, electromotive force, inductances, rotor eddy current loss, and torque in normal condition. Performance under fault-tolerant operation is investigated by the copper loss minimization control strategy. The results show that by applying the detached winding instead of the conventional winding, rotor eddy current losses could be reduced by 25% and 70% under normal and fault-tolerant operation, respectively, without sacrificing torque output. This implies that under fault operation, the excess heating in rotor could be reduced and the machine durability can be enhanced. A prototype machine is built to validate the performance of the detached winding design. The experimental results match well with simulation analysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Shunt active power filter (SAPF) is widely used for compensating harmonic current produced by nonlinear loads. As one of the critical technologies, the current control strategy has an important influence on the compensation precision and dynamic response performance. In this paper, the essential of the current-limiting demands for the comprehensive protection of SAPF are revealed, namely the limiting control objects: first, rms of the compensation current (mainly for the overheat protection of IGBTs and inductors), second, the instantaneous wave of compensating current (mainly for the accurate current control and IGBT Icnom specification), and third, the instantaneous wave of PWM-VSC modulation voltage (for the need of liner close-loop control). To avoid the over-current fault and over-modulation fault of SAPF, this paper proposes an improved current-limiting scheme based on particle swarm optimization (PSO) to achieve the two optimization targets: the minimization THD for the grid-side current, and the maximization utilization ratio for the capacity of SAPF. The main advantage lies on the optimum limiting ratios of each harmonic order calculated in real time, respectively, to achieve the flexible and liner limiting control. In addition, taking the control structure consisting of selective harmonic detection under the multiple rotating reference frame and the single PI current loop, for example, this paper gives the method for steady-state error correction qualitatively and quantitatively, which employs the method based on the frequency response characteristics analysis. Finally, simulation and experimental results verify the effectiveness of the proposed strategy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recently, magnetic gears have drawn wide attention due to their inherent merits, such as noncontact operation, high torque density, and intrinsic overload protection. In this paper, an analytical calculation based on magnet magnetomotive force permeance theory is adopted to analyze the modulation effect in a magnetic gear. After that, the effects of some key parameters on magnetic gear performance are investigated, including the air-slot-opening-to-pole-pitch ratio $c_0$ , the magnet-arc-to-permanent-magnet-pole-pitch ratio $\alpha$ , and the permanent magnet thickness $h_m$. In particular, three types of steel pole pieces are considered: radial slots, parallel teeth, and parallel slots. A global optimization design is then carried out by using the differential evolution algorithm, and some useful suggestions are derived from the optimal Pareto range. Finally, the determination of outer rotor yoke thickness is discussed considering the iron saturation, and the iron loss distribution is investigated. This paper will be helpful for the design and optimization of a coaxial magnetic gear. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Power quality (PQ) is becoming more and more critical issue in shipboard microgrid systems (SMGs). Especially, the impact of voltage unbalance combined with harmonic distortions on the SMG behavior has not been fully investigated. In this paper, simple PQ assessment models and a series of controlled experiments are proposed and carried out in a real ship under sea-going conditions. The ship experimental results are presented and discussed considering nonlinear bow thruster load and high power ballast pump loads under unbalanced and harmonic voltage conditions. In addition, the analysis of bow thruster current harmonic surges during the ballast pump start-up is presented. Furthermore, the voltage/current distortions of a working generator, bow thruster and pump loads are analyzed. The paper provides a valuable analysis for coping with PQ issues in the SMG. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Many research works report the use of LCL filters for grid-interfaced PV systems. Indiscreet selection of passive LCL filter parameters may result in poor filtering and increased power losses. LCL filter parameter selection is critical to get a good performance and at the same time ensure that losses and costs stay low. This paper proposes a novel approach to design the LCL filter for a grid-interfaced PV system. A cost-based minimization approach on a cost per joule basis for each of the filter elements is explored to obtain the optimal filter design. Simulation results for a 10-kVA grid-connected inverter with an LCL filter are presented in order to verify the efficacy of the proposed design. The impact of designed filter parameters on the ripple current is also discussed in this paper. The total inductance of the LCL filter is varied and filter parameter values which give lowest cost is identified while meeting harmonic standard requirements and the fundamental voltage drop across the filter. Finally, the proposed design is also experimentally validated via a hardware prototype. Results validate the design method in terms of the harmonic attenuation and total harmonic distortion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Grid-interactive inverters allow distributed generation units to provide various ancillary services in microgrids. As the linear modulation region of inverters is restricted by the dc-bus voltage, providing ancillary services may drive the fundamental positive-sequence inverter voltage to the overmodulation region. Therefore, to operate in the linear modulation region the maximum active- and reactive-power of the inverter may have to be reduced unless pulsewidth modulation (PWM) references are adjusted. In this paper, an atypical PWM method is proposed for maximizing dc-bus utilization of grid-interactive two-level voltage source inverters (2L-VSI) providing ancillary services. Two important ancillary services, i.e., negative-sequence compensation and harmonic compensation are considered in this paper. The proposed method increases the maximum active- and reactive-power that a 2L-VSI can deliver when providing ancillary services by injecting a common-mode component in the references computed based on instantaneous reference magnitudes. The validity of the proposed technique is verified through simulation, as well as experimental data obtained using a 208-V three phase grid-connected 2L-VSI. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, the theoretical analysis of the position estimation error in position-sensorless operation using pulsating square wave signal injection is presented. The purpose of this paper is to analyze the phenomenon that the position estimation performance varies depending on the injection frequency. Mathematical derivation supported by simulation and experimental results shows that, in no-load condition, the voltage distortion induces position estimation error with 3rd-order harmonics if the frequency of the injected square wave is the same to the switching frequency. While, if the frequency is a half of the switching frequency or heavier load condition in either injection frequency, the effect of nonideal characteristics of inverter disappears and there is no 3rd harmonics in the position estimation error. Therefore, only the effect of cross-coupling inductance is reflected in the estimation error. As the result, the position estimation error appears in the form of 6th-order harmonics due to the spatial harmonics of inductances, and the error is relatively small compared with the switching frequency injection case. The theoretical analysis was verified by simulation and experimental results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Back electromotive force (EMF) self-sensing is commonly used in induction machine (IM) drive systems, which can be effectively controlled using deadbeat-direct torque and flux control (DB-DTFC). Accurate machine parameters are needed for back EMF self-sensing DB-DTFC drive systems. In this paper, an injection-based, real-time parameter estimation method for IM DB-DTFC drives, in the back EMF self-sensing mode, is proposed. The methodology for choosing appropriate frequencies for injection signals is introduced. With encoder-based velocity feedback, the proposed DB-DTFC injection method induces no additional torque ripple, compared to traditional d-axis pulsating voltage vector injection used in indirect field oriented control. However, in the self-sensing mode, the injected flux linkage induces an erroneous speed ripple, which causes a real speed ripple. This paper presents two approaches to eliminate the speed ripple. Finally, the injection-based real-time parameter estimation method for the system is experimentally evaluated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, we investigate the variation in performance of variable speed induction motors fed by inverters with grades of core materials used for stators and rotors from both results of measurement and finite element analysis. Identical shaped stator/rotor cores are manufactured by using several kinds of electrical steel sheets from low to high grades. Then, the characteristics of these motors are measured. Finite element analysis is applied to these motors to understand the measured results by separating losses and torques according to origins. The measured motor characteristics are found to be in good agreement with the results of the analysis. The analysis reveals the variation in each loss component with electrical steel sheets. Finally, the strong and weak points of the application of high-grade electrical steel sheets to the variable speed induction motors are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper deals with active torque ripple compensation based on direct power control of permanent magnet brushless DC (BLDC) motor drive. The torque undulations caused by the mismatch between stator current and its nonsinusoidal back electromotive force (back EMF) waveforms is a well-known issue on BLDC motor drives. In this paper, to remedy this problem, a simple and comprehensive direct power control based approach is proposed. Instead of using conventional field-oriented control or direct torque control schemes, which are widely used in ac machines with sinusoidal flux distribution, an alternative approach is presented to control the mutual torque production through an active and reactive rotor power control loop. As a result, the proposed approach provides a simple way to reduce torque ripple of a permanent magnet synchronous motor with nonsinusoidal back EMF without requiring rotor orientation or back EMF harmonic content estimation method. In order to synthesize the proper input voltages in the context of torque ripple minimization, high bandwidth controllers are required to cope the torque ripple frequencies. In this sense, the power control loop is implemented based on two-vector finite control-set model-based predictive control approach, which provides fast torque response and good steady-state performance. The validity of the proposed control scheme for low torque ripple BLDC motor drive is verified through experimental results, achieving good steady-state performance while maintaining quick dynamic response. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A programmable electronic load (PEL) solution is usually needed for comprehensive testing of power supplies. In this paper, a novel PEL based on a hybrid five-level voltage source inverter (VSI) is introduced to emulate a variety of static load behaviors, such as R, L, C loads, high-frequency harmonic loads, and unbalanced loads. Dynamic load behavior, for example, modulation loads, can also be achieved in this paper. A dedicated control structure is proposed for the emulation of different load behaviors and the detailed compensator design is presented to evaluate the system dynamic performance. The proposed PEL system has isolated active dc links to support multilevel converter topology, and it can either dump the energy to a passive load or recycle the energy back to the utility grid through another VSI. Simulation and experimental results are provided to validate the effectiveness of proposed control methods in terms of successfully achieving a variety of load profile functions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The harmful effects of harmonics are an important issue in wind power plants (WPPs), especially in offshore applications. In offshore WPPs, the wind turbines are linked to the network through high-power converters that produce harmonics at relative low frequencies. Moreover, in the network of a WPP, the propagation of noncharacteristic harmonics and the effect of resonance contribute as well in boosting the harmonic distortion. In this paper, a solution for compensating the harmonics in a WPP by means of using hybrid filters is proposed. In this paper, not only the filtering solution is tested, but also a method for finding the best place where to connect the filter, based on a modal analysis or a harmonic modal resonance analysis, is implemented. The proposed solution has been tested by considering the model of a real 400-MW offshore WPP as the study case. As it will be shown, the hybrid filter is capable of damping the resonances in the plant, while the analysis conducted permits us to optimize its location in the plant. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

The advantages of a static var compensator (SVC) for electric arc furnace (EAF) and ladle melt furnace (LMF) applications are well known. The SVC minimizes the impact of the EAF and LMF on the utility and improves the efficiency of both furnaces. In this application, it was desirable to quantify the performance of the SVC. This paper describes power quality measurements that were taken on the electrical distribution system to evaluate the performance of the SVC. The purpose of the power quality measurements was to monitor the voltage regulation, harmonics, flicker, and other power quality quantities at the 138-kV utility point of common coupling (PCC), as well as the 34.5-kV system serving the SVC, EAF, and LMF. The measurements and subsequent analysis established a baseline for the SVC performance and identified areas of concern. This paper describes the analysis of the measurements and evaluation of the SVC performance. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

The power system, including variable-speed drives (VSDs), transformers, and long subsea power cables, is one of the main building blocks in the development of subsea gas compression. This paper presents results from full-scale technology qualification testing of a power system onshore where the VSD is controlling a 188-Hz 7.8-MW gas compressor motor over a simulated distance of 47 km. The extensive testing shows that it is possible to control the compressor/motor speed from start-up throughout the whole load envelope without the need for motor voltage and current feedback. By the use of estimator-based control, it is also possible to provide motor overcurrent protection. This paper shows how resonances in the long cable system can be handled by the use of optimization of the generated voltage waveform instead of using a VSD sine filter. The successful technology qualification shows applicability for subsea compressors with a rated frequency of up to 200 Hz, at least 8-MW shaft power, and a step-out distance of at least 50 km. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

The flux-intensified interior permanent-magnet synchronous machine (IPMSM) (FI-IPMSM) lends itself to designing for good self-sensing properties. This paper begins by evaluating the self-sensing position estimation performance of a suitably designed FI-IPMSM machine using different high-frequency injection methods. This paper then uses an alternative square-wave injection method to estimate the FI-IPMSM rotor position. The experiment results show that the estimation accuracy and system robustness are improved. It is known that secondary saliencies and saliency offset caused by the saturation of the machine can degrade the estimation accuracy. This paper also includes modeling, measurement, and decoupling methods that mitigate these undesirable effects, which are also implemented using an experimental FI-IPMSM. Estimation accuracy and torque ripple caused by the injection current are examined for this FI-IPMSM. Comparisons of the methods are presented. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, the theoretical strategy and experimental results for noise reduction of a switched reluctance motor with a high number of poles are presented using a novel simplified current profile at low speed and low torque region. The noise reduction is carried out by the principle of reducing the variation of the sum of radial forces. The variation of the sum of three-phase radial forces of the A-phase tooth, the B-phase tooth, and the C-phase tooth is a cause of vibration and acoustic noise. Thus, the variation of the sum of these forces is aimed to be minimized by current profiling. In this paper, a simple current waveform with reduced harmonic order is proposed. This has advantages of low rate of change of the current, easy current regulation, low root mean square (rms) and peak currents, low torque ripple, and higher efficiency. An improved current regulation method is also implemented. In experiment, it has been found that significant noise and vibration reductions can be achieved with the proposed current waveform. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

This paper presents the performances of a surface-mounted permanent-magnet synchronous machine (SM-PMSM) from the electromagnetic and structural analysis point of view, which are evaluated numerically and through tests. The goal is to evaluate the possibility to use this SM-PMSM for the propulsion of a light-electric vehicle (L-EV), knowing that on one hand it has the best power density and, on the other hand, a torque wave with high ripples induces vibration and noise. This paper discusses the limits and the advantages for such a propulsion solution in order to evaluate its suitability for the L-EV applications. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Low-frequency torque oscillations in the load can induce frequency components in the vicinity of that of rotor faults (RFs) resulting in false alarms when applying motor current signature analysis (MCSA). False RF indications due to load oscillations (LO) are most common in applications that employ speed reduction couplings for high torque, low-speed operation. Recently, ideas for separating RF and LO have been proposed in the literature; however, the case where two components overlap at the same frequency has not been investigated. Several cases where RF- and LO-induced components are identical have been observed in the field by the authors with commercial MCSA equipment. It is shown in this paper that overlap between the two components can produce a false positive or false negative indication because they can add or cancel depending on the relative phase between the components. Alternative options for reliable RF testing among existing test methods are evaluated and verified in this paper for cases where the two components overlap and produce false indications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper proposes a Y-D multifunction balance transformer (YD-MFBT)-based power quality control system (MBT-PQCS) to deal with the power quality problems in the single-phase power system. The MBT-PQCS mainly consists of a YD-MFBT and a three-phase full-bridge converter (FBC). It fully explores the inherent negative sequence current (NSC) suppressing the ability of YD-MFBT, which makes the power flow transformed by FBC less than that of the conventional transformer-based compensating system. In addition, since the YD-MFBT exits three-phase output ports in relatively low-voltage level, FBC can directly connect with the main transformer via the output ports, without using the auxiliary step-down transformer. Therefore, the initial investment cost, installing difficulties and covering space of the whole compensating system, can be reduced significantly. In this paper, the current transforming relationship and the compensating principle of MBT-PQCS are presented, and the detection and control methods are given as well. Both the simulation and the experiment are used to verify the effectiveness of the proposed system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]