Topology design of variable speed drive systems for enhancing power quality in industrial grids

Abstract

In the last two decades, a rapid increase in the utilization of non-linear loads within electrical grids has been observed. Consequently, elevated levels of harmonics are found in both voltage and current waves, and adverse effects on power quality are caused. In this context, the variable speed drive (VSD) systems are considered a significant non-linear contributor. To mitigate the harmonic content in VSD systems, various techniques are explored, such as electronic smoothing inductor incorporation in the DC-link, active filters utilization at the grid side, and passive filters integration. A technique centered on the reconfiguration of the DC-link in the VSD systems is proposed in this paper to improve the overall performance of the VSD systems. The configuration comprises two transistors and two diodes, along with smoothing inductors and a capacitor to enhance power quality in the VSD systems. The utilization of three-stage sine pulse width modulation (SPWM) control technology ensures accurate control of the switches, generating optimal control signals that enhance the power quality of the voltage and current waves at the grid side. The effectiveness of the proposed approach is tested via time-domain simulation in MATLAB/Simulink under both constant and variable loading conditions and is verified using a laboratory prototype. The obtained results demonstrate a notable improvement in power quality, showcasing reduced total harmonic distortion (THD) in AC voltage and current waveforms, as well as minimized ripple factor in the DC-link when compared to existing methods.