Role of flexible alternating current transmission systems devices in mitigating grid fault‐induced vibration of wind turbines

Abstract

ABSTRACTThis paper focuses on the modeling of mechanical and structural vibrations in wind turbines due to the occurrence of electrical faults and an effective means of suppressing the vibrations with flexible alternating current transmission systems (FACTS) devices. A detailed model describing the dynamic interaction between the mechanical and the electrical subsystems of the turbine is presented. The model captures the effect of grid faults on the mechanical vibrations of drivetrain, flexible rotor blades and tower. Numerical investigation reveals that electrical disturbances have a significant impact on the mechanical/structural vibrations. In fact, the occurrence of severe vibrations due to voltage sags may compromise safe operation of the overall plant. The application of FACTS devices is then considered to suppress the effect of electrical fault‐induced vibrations. The performance comparison of static synchronous compensator and unified power quality conditioner devices in improving the mechanical/structural response has been carried out. A fault scenario compliant with Irish grid code has been simulated. Simulation results show that FACTS devices are successfully able to mitigate vibrations due to electrical faults, and they can be conveniently applied to stabilize the generator shaft speed, drivetrain oscillations, edgewise blade vibrations and tower responses. Further, superior performances of the unified power quality conditioner as compared with static synchronous compensator are also observed under certain conditions with increased fault duration. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.