Investigation of fault characteristics of different types of wind generators

Abstract

In this paper, the fault characteristics of different types of wind generators have been investigated. Three types of wind generators, namely Types 1, 3, and 4, along with a microgrid are simulated in both islanded and grid-connected modes using MATLAB/Simulink software. The fault current contribution and voltage at the PCC during the fault have been recorded for each type of the generators. The simulations results demonstrate that the characteristics of the fault current contribution of each type of wind generators vary from one type to another. The variation in fault current characteristics reveal that a careful design of the protection schemes that protect the system should be considered, and special requirements on fault ride through capabilities should be taken into account. Adequate protection techniques and schemes that suits each type of wind generator in both islanded and grid-connected modes must be proposed.