Current Total Harmonic Distortion Research Articles

LADRC-based grid-connected control strategy for single-phase LCL-type inverters.

To ensure that grid-connected currents are of high quality, it is crucial to optimize the dynamic performance of grid-connected inverters and their control. This study suggests using a combination of reduced-order linear active disturbance rejection control (LADRC) and a Proportional-Integral (PI) controller. By applying this control strategy to a single-phase photovoltaic grid-connected system, the system's ability to suppress grid harmonics is significantly improved. The validity and effectiveness of this control approach have been confirmed through simulations and experiments. The results show that the LADRC-based control system is robust and capable of rejecting disturbances, resulting in a significant reduction in the Total Harmonic Distortion (THD) of grid-connected currents. Comparative analysis with traditional control methods demonstrates the superior performance of the proposed approach.

Frequency and power shaving controller for grid-connected vanadium redox flow batteries for improved energy storage systems

In this research, the performance of vanadium redox flow batteries (VRFBs) in grid-connected energy storage systems centering on frequency and power sharing using voltage source inverters was evaluated. VRFBs are increasingly promising due to their scalability and long lifespan. We explore the impact of voltage source inverters on the frequency of the power supply when there is a change in load and power sharing between the grid and VRFB through MATLAB simulations. The test system demonstrates a storage system at an 11-kV substation and considers a load profile commencing from residential and commercial consumers. The outcome of this study reveals that VRFBs provide the required power to maintain load demand. Due to fast response time, VRFBs also regulate the frequency efficiently during the change in load demand and maintaining current total harmonic distortions (THDs). This research confirms the design and operation of VRFB-based energy storage systems, contributing to resilient grid infrastructure and reliable power distribution systems.

Performance Evaluation of the B4 Topology for Implementing Grid-Connected Inverters in Microgrids

The B4 topology is an interesting alternative to the conventional B6 inverter due to its reduced number of parts and lower cost. Although it has been widely used in the past, especially in low-power motor drive applications, its application as a grid-connected inverter is an open area of research. In this regard, this paper analyses the feasibility of the B4 inverter topology for grid-connected applications. A versatile 7 kW inverter prototype, which may be configured as B4 and B6, was built, allowing for a comprehensive evaluation of the performance of both topologies. Through an analytical study and experimental tests, the performance of the B4 and B6 topologies was comparatively evaluated in terms of efficiency, total harmonic distortion of line currents, current unbalance, cost, and mean time between failures. The study was carried out in the context of microgrid systems, highlighting their role in the integration of renewable energy and distributed generation.

Magnetic integrated double-trap filter utilizing the mutual inductance for reducing current harmonics in high-speed railway traction inverters

Current harmonics are generated at the switching frequency and its multiples when the traction converters are modulated. To address this, multi-trap filters are introduced, which are capable of selectively eliminating these specific harmonics to the limits set by IEEE 519-2014. This targeted removal significantly reduces the need for high total inductance, thereby allowing for a more compact filter design. Comparatively, to traditional inductor-capacitor-inductor (LCL) filters, more magnetic cores are needed for trap inductors. Furthermore, the traction systems have not been examined in conjunction with multi-trap filters. To reduce the filter size and investigate its application in traction converters, this paper presents an integrated double-trap LCL (DTLCL) filter. A tiny capacitor is connected in parallel with the grid-side inductor to form one LC-trap. In addition, another LC-trap is formed by connecting the equivalent trap inductor, introduced through the magnetic coupling between inverter-side and grid-side inductors, in series with the filter capacitor. The presented filters' features are thoroughly analyzed, and the design method has been developed. Finally, the simulation and hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) experiment results validate the proposed method's viability and efficacy. Compared to the discrete windings, the integrated ones enable a size decrease of two cores. Furthermore, the proposed filters can meet IEEE 519-2014 criteria with 0.3% for all the current switching harmonics and total harmonic distortion (THD) of 2.36% of the grid‐side current.

Comparative evaluation of Z source / quasi Z-source direct and indirect matrix converters for PMG based WECS

The present era sees the dominance of wind energy conversion systems as a leading technology in renewable energy. Various technologies have been devised to harness wind energy, with variable speed systems emerging as particularly advantageous. Consequently, these systems are designed to operate at specified speeds using power electronic interfaces, maximizing power extraction from the wind. The integration of Permanent Magnet Generators (PMGs), directly linked to the wind turbine lacking a gearbox, allows operation at minimum speeds. To stabilize the continuously fluctuating output voltage of the PMG, power electronic converters are extensively utilized in Wind Energy Conversion Systems (WECS), ensuring a consistent voltage and frequency output. The voltage gain of Traditional matrix converters (MCs) is limited to less than 0.866. In turn, the Z-source (ZS) and discontinuous QZSDMC, as well as ZS IMCs, topologies have achieved voltage gains exceeding 0.866. However, the former provides complicated commutation issues from DMC, while the latter incorporates a Z source network in the DC link, resulting in a non-all-silicon solution. A novel continuous QZSDMC and QZSIMC are suggested, wherein a qZS network incorporates the grid-side filtering function. This design eliminates the need for an additional input filter in the proposed system. Three newly introduced topologies of ZSDMC, QZSDMC and QZSIMC are thoroughly compared across various parameters including voltage gain, current and voltage ripples, inductor current and capacitor voltage stresses, filtering capabilities, input current, and output voltage Total Harmonic Distortion (THD), finally efficiency. The paper presents their control and modulation methods to achieve the desired performance levels. Experimental comparisons validate the theoretical analysis and demonstrate the potential of the proposed QZSDMC as a promising topology.

Single-Phase Robust Charger with High Power Quality for Electric Vehicle Application

The widespread use of electric vehicles (EVs) necessitates the development of a robust charging infrastructure. The goal of this research paper is to create a high-quality, single-phase charger for electric cars. The purpose of this design is to provide a charger that is both fast and efficient but also protects against power quality problems including harmonics, power factor correction, and voltage variations. A single-phase–single-stage improved power quality EV charger for small and medium power applications has been designed and simulated. A single DC-DC converter is utilized for constant charging and improved power quality operation. The charger presented exhibits improved power quality as sinusoidal current is drawn from the utility grid supply with the total harmonic distortion (THD) in compliance with the IEEE 519 and IEC 61000-3-2 standards. In order to charge the battery of an electric vehicle, most two-stage converters first use a boost converter for power factor correction (PFC), and then they use a DC-DC converter that can accept any input voltage. These two-stage conversions are inefficient and use more parts than necessary. This work proposes a PFC converter based on a single-stage switching inductor Cuk converter, which has the advantages of high step-down gain, low current stress, high efficiency, and a small number of components. The suggested converter’s operational analysis and design equations are performed in continuous current mode. The proposed converter is the subject of extensive mathematical modelling, analysis, simulation, and experimentation presented in this study. With both constant voltage (CV) and constant current (CC) loads, the proposed converter’s performance is analysed with regard to power quality indices like voltage total harmonic distortion (THD), current THD, and total power factor. Additionally, in CV mode and CC mode, the suggested converter’s dynamic performance with battery charging is evaluated in relation to the extensive supply changes. The developed charger presents a reliable and efficient solution for EV charging, fostering the transition to a cleaner and more sustainable transportation system.

High-Efficient Direct Power Control Scheme Using Predictive Virtual Flux for Three-Phase Active Rectifiers

In recent years, the pulse-width-modulation (PWM) converter has been found to have extensive applications in renewable energy, industrial fields, and others. The high efficiency requirement is crucial to operating a PWM rectifier in various applications, in addition to the fundamental control objectives of sinusoidal grid currents and the correct DC bus voltage. Additionally, in practical application, another issue arises when the grid voltage frequently experiences distortion, leading to a distorted grid current and a significant rise in total harmonic distortion (THD). To resolve these problems, a model predictive virtual flux-based direct power control (MPVFDPC) with improved power loss performance is proposed based on an integrated switching state predetermination strategy. The proposed MPVFDPC for PWM rectifier inherits the merits of both virtual flux control and direct power control, which have fast dynamic performance and the grid current THD is considerably decreased under distorted grid voltage states. The proposed technique aims to minimize switching loss under ideal and distorted grid voltage states by exploiting the discontinuous modulation concept by using a switching state predetermination strategy. The MPVFDPC with switching state predetermination strategy is proven by employing it in experiments as well as simulations in comparison with previous models: predictive direct power control (Conv. MPDPC) and conventional MPVFDPC (Conv. MPVFDPC). The acquired waveforms and quantitative data are employed to prove the effectiveness of the developed algorithm.

Power quality assessment and compliance of grid-connected PV systems in low voltage networks using microinverters

AbstractSolar PV has experienced unprecedented growth in the last decade, with the most significant additions being utility-scale solar PV. The role of grid inverters is very critical in feeding power from distributed sources into the grid. With the increasing growth of grid-tied solar PV systems (both rooftop and large-scale), the awareness of power quality issues has risen with new regulations and standards to ensure the stability of the power grid. The power quality of microinverters has been investigated under steady solar irradiation and PV power source and also under real outdoor conditions in compliance with the accepted solar PV integration requirements. The current total harmonic distortion (THD) measured for the studied microinverter under outdoor conditions far exceeded the current THD for the study under steady indoor conditions and was beyond the accepted standard. However, the voltage THD outputs for the two studied cases were in good agreement with the grid codes. The voltage and current THD for the 400 Wm−2 (60 Wp) and the 1000 Wm−2 (146 Wp) scenarios under the steady solar irradiation (solar PV power) were 2.24%, 13%, and 2.27, 6.93%, respectively. The voltage and current THDs for the outdoor study were 2.03% and 14.28% for Solarex (pc-Si module), 1.94%, and 27.43% for Juta (mc-Si modules), and 1.97% and 33.6% for Dunasolar (a-Si glass module). Results showed a strong correlation between the intermittence of solar radiation and the current THD. 67%, 54%, and 37% of the recorded power factor for Dunasolar, Juta, and Solarex modules, respectively, exceeded the limits prescribed by the standards.

Enhancing grid-connected photovoltaic system performance with novel hybrid MPPT technique in variable atmospheric conditions

This paper proposes an innovative approach to improve the performance of grid-connected photovoltaic (PV) systems operating in environments with variable atmospheric conditions. The dynamic nature of atmospheric parameters poses challenges for traditional control methods, leading to reduced PV system efficiency and reliability. To address this issue, we introduce a novel integration of fuzzy logic and sliding mode control methodologies. Fuzzy logic enables the PV system to effectively handle imprecise and uncertain atmospheric data, allowing for decision-making based on qualitative inputs and expert knowledge. Sliding mode control, known for its robustness against disturbances and uncertainties, ensures stability and responsiveness under varying atmospheric conditions. Through the integration of these methodologies, our proposed approach offers a comprehensive solution to the complexities posed by real-world atmospheric dynamics. We anticipate applications in grid-connected PV systems across various geographical locations and climates. By harnessing the synergistic benefits of fuzzy logic and sliding mode control, this approach promises to significantly enhance the performance and reliability of grid-connected PV systems in the presence of variable atmospheric conditions. On the grid side, both PSO (Particle Swarm Optimization) and GA (Genetic Algorithm) algorithms were employed to tune the current controller of the PI (Proportional-Integral) current controller (inverter control). Simulation results, conducted using MATLAB Simulink, demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed hybrid MPPT technique in optimizing the performance of the PV system. The technique exhibits superior tracking efficiency, achieving a convergence time of 0.06 s and an efficiency of 99.86%, and less oscillation than the classical methods. The comparison with other MPPT techniques highlights the advantages of the proposed approach, including higher tracking efficiency and faster response times. The simulation outcomes are analyzed and demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed control strategies on both sides (the PV array and the grid side). Both PSO and GA offer effective methods for tuning the parameters of a PI current controller. According to considered IEEE standards for low-voltage networks, the total current harmonic distortion values (THD) obtained are considerably high (8.33% and 10.63%, using the PSO and GA algorithms, respectively). Comparative analyses with traditional MPPT methods demonstrate the superior performance of the hybrid approach in terms of tracking efficiency, stability, and rapid response to dynamic changes.

Improved Power Sharing Strategy for Parallel Connected Inverters in Standalone Micro-grid

The primary goal of integrating alternative energy systems such as solar and wind turbines into the power grid using power electronic devices is to meet the growing energy demands. Connecting inverters in parallel effectively enhance power capacity, reliability, and overall system efficiency. However, an uneven power distribution among the inverters is a significant limitation in these parallel connected inverters (PCI). This study focuses on a distributed generation (DG) unit comprising a solar photovoltaic system (SPV) and a battery energy storage system (BESS) connected to voltage source inverters (VSI) 1 and 2. The proposed approach aims to achieve uniform load/power distribution among the inverters with power management, maintaining a constant DC link voltage despite variations in solar irradiation and temperature. Additionally, the strategy targets the reduction of total harmonic distortion (THD) in the load current. The conventional droop control method is restricted in its ability to achieve accurate and uniform power distribution during load changes. An enhanced P-f and Q-E-based droop control technique (EDCT) and a fuzzy logic controller (FLC) have been proposed to address these challenges. Performance analysis using MATLAB/Simulink was conducted with two test cases, and a comparative assessment was carried out with a conventional controller, such as a Proportional Integral Controller (PIC) and Sliding Mode Controller (SMC), to showcase the effectiveness of the developed control technique. The proposed control method ensures equal sharing of active power of 2.5 and 4kW, 2.5 and 7.5kW and reactive powers of 2.5 and 4Vars, 2.5 and 7.5Vars among the inverters for the two cases even during the load change at t=0.5seconds. The settling time for DC link voltage and THD is effectively diminished to 0.03 and 0.25 seconds and 1.18% and 2.87% for the two test case studies of the proposed method, which are much lower than those of existing methods available in the literature.

Hotspot temperature analysis of distribution transformer under unbalanced harmonic loads using finite element method

In an electrical power distribution system, harmonic distortion is the most prominent power quality problem that causes long-term adverse effects such as failure of distribution transformers. Considering that most transformer problems are caused by heat losses due to the presence of harmonics, it was decided to use a numerical method with the highest accuracy, finite element method (FEM) to analyze the hot spot temperature (HST) of the thermal distribution transformer model. Through the use of COMSOL Multiphysics software, three phases of unbalanced harmonic loads are considered, which contribute to three different total harmonic distortion current (THDI) levels and five different insulation temperature classes. Using the IEEE C57.110-2018 guidance, the simulation outputs are then verified with HST results from the HST mathematical model. The findings indicated that with the increased loadings, the unbalanced harmonic currents have impacted the HST increment and distinguished the HST values between the phases.

Control strategy for power factor correction circuits based on model predictive control

Power factor correction circuits are being used more extensively, and with that, the requirements and standards have become increasingly stringent. To improve the power factor of the circuit, thereby improving its operational efficiency and mitigating the load effects in boost power factor correction circuits, reducing Total Harmonics Distortion is crucial for improving the quality of the current. An improvement upon the conventional dual-loop PID control algorithm has been proposed. It involves integrating Model Predictive Control into the current loop design and incorporates a Luenberger observer. Model Predictive Control methods can be applied for the control of multivariable systems, especially in complex multivariable systems, as they exhibit strong robustness. Finally, by performing both simulation and experimental validations and analyzing the data results, it is shown that under full load conditions, the power factor λ is 0.968, the efficiency η is 91.11%, the voltage total harmonic distortion Uthd is 1.88%, and the current total harmonic distortion Ithd is 7.04%. These data results strongly confirm the performance of the control mechanism proposed in this paper.

Common-Mode Voltage Reduction Method Based on Variable Sampling Frequency Finite Control Set-Model Predictive Control for PMSM Drive Systems

In this article, a finite control set-model predictive control (FCS-MPC) with variable sampling time is proposed. A zero-voltage vector appears in the dead time between specific voltage vectors, resulting in an unintentionally large common-mode voltage. Herein, a large common-mode voltage was suppressed, and the load current was controlled using a voltage vector combination that did not cause a zero-voltage vector in dead time. Additionally, to improve the total harmonic distortion (THD) of the load current, the intersection of the predicted current and the command current by all the volage vectors (VVs) in the combination is confirmed. The VV where the intersection occurs is selected as the optimal VV. This optimal VV is applied to the point where the predicted current and the reference current intersect. The applicable range of the sampling time should be selected by considering the calculation time and number of switching. Through the proposed FCS-MPC strategy, not only can the common-mode voltage be limited to within ±Vdc/6, but an improved THD can also be obtained compared to the existing method using fixed sampling. The proposed method was verified through PSIM simulation and experimental results.

Estimation of the total current harmonic distortion using an ELF magnetometer

The conventional operation of the grid and electrical devices can be disturbed by harmonics, so standards impose strict limits on harmonic current. The entire grid is essential for today’s society, but electromagnetic fields are radiated at their fundamental frequency and harmonics. This paper investigates a methodology to estimate the total current harmonic distortion of the grid by analyzing the magnetic flux density obtained from an extremely low-frequency magnetometer in the 0–2.2 kHz range. A Fast Fourier transform algorithm was applied to determine the magnetic flux density in the frequency domain. By evaluating the ratio of the fundamental component of the magnetic flux density to the harmonics, its total harmonic distortion rate could be deduced. Finally, the data were compared with measurements obtained by two power quality analyzers.

Smart current control of the wind energy conversion system based permanent magnet synchronous generator using predictive and hysteresis model

Introduction. Given the increasing demand for performance and efficiency of converters and power drives, the development of new control systems must take into account the real nature of these types of systems. Converters and dimmers power are nonlinear systems of a hybrid nature, including elements linear and nonlinear and a finite number of switching devices. Signals input for power converters are discrete signals that control the ‘opening and closing’ transitions of each component. Problem. In the multilevel inverters connected to grid, the switching frequency is the principal cause of harmonics and switching losses, which by nature, reduces the inverter’s efficiency. Purpose. For guarantee the satisfying quality of power transmitted to the electrical grid, while ensuring reduction of current ripples and output voltage harmonics. Novelty. This work proposes a new smart control, based on a predictive current control of the three level neutral point clamped inverter, used in Wind Energy Conversion System (WECS) connected to grid, based permanent magnet synchronous generator, powered by a hysteresis current control for the rectifier. This new formula guarantees handling with the influence of harmonics disturbances (similar current total harmonic distortion), voltage stress, switching losses, rise time, over or undershoot and settling time in WECS. Methods. The basic idea of this control is to choose the best switching state, of the power switches, which ameliorates the quality function, selected from order predictive current control of WECS. Results. Practical value. Several advantages in this intelligent method, such as the fast dynamic answer, the easy implementation of nonlinearities and it requires fewer calculations to choose the best switching state. In addition, an innovative algorithm is proposed to adjust the current ripples and output voltage harmonics of the WECS. The performances of the system were analyzed by simulation using MATLAB/Simulink.

Multifaceted Functionalities of Bridge-Type DC Reactor Fault Current Limiters: An Experimentally Validated Investigation

With the ongoing expansion and interconnection of electrical power systems, alongside the rapid proliferation of renewable distributed generations (DGs), the short-circuit extent in the power grid is experiencing a significant rise. Fault current limiters (FCLs) have been introduced in an effort to address this issue, ensuring the robustness and sustainability of expensive power system components when confronted with short-circuit faults. Among the various types of FCLs, bridge-type DC reactor fault current limiters (BDCR-FCLs) have emerged as one of the most promising options. While BDCR-FCLs have shown excellent properties in limiting harmful short-circuit currents, they are also advantageous in other respects. This paper investigates the supplementary functionalities of BDCR-FCLs as a multifaceted device towards the enhancement of the quality of supplied energy in terms of total harmonic distortion (THD) reduction, power factor (PF) correction, peak current reduction for nonlinear loads, and soft load variation effects, as well as their capability to limit fault current. To this aim, the capabilities of BDCR-FCLs have been studied through various simulated case studies in PSCAD/EMTDC software V5.0.1, in addition to experimental tests considering an AC microgrid connected to a DC system. The experimental and simulation investigations verify the superior multifaceted functionalities BDCR-FCLs introduce in addition to their excellent fault current-limiting capabilities. The results show that PF improved by 6.7% and 7%, respectively, in simulation and experimental tests. Furthermore, the current THD decreased by 20% and 18% in the simulation and experiment, respectively.

Development of Sliding Mode Control-Adaptive Neuro-Fuzzy Inference Strategy Algorithm for Three-Phase 15-Level MLI

A comparative analysis was conducted in current research on the control strategies utilized in three-phase 15-level Cascaded H-Bridge Multilevel inverter (CHBMLI)-fed different RL loads with a three-phase induction motor, generally applied in industries. The analysis of 15-level CHBMLI, with Sliding Mode Control (SMC), the sliding mode control with an artificial neural network (SMC-ANN), and sliding mode control with an Adaptive Neuro-Fuzzy Inference Strategy (SMC-ANFIS) controller are explained. The study compared the performance achieved by controllers at four different speeds of a 3ϕ inductor motor and parallel-connected RL load dynamic change under closed-loop operations. The comparative study results demonstrate that there should be a reduction in the methodology suggested in terms of both the quantity of power devices and Total Harmonic Distortion (THD). The researcher conducted the experimentation procedures to authenticate the proposed 15-level MLI topology's performance. The SMC-ANFIS control technique produces less voltage and lower current total harmonic distortion of 5.53% and 2.74% compared to the SMC-ANN control technique in both simulation and real-time implementations.

Super-twisting hysteresis controller for multi-rotor wind energy systems

ABSTRACT In this study, the hysteresis controller (HCs) of the direct power control (DPC) is proposed based on super-twisting HCs (STHCs). The effectiveness of the proposed STHCs is analysed and compared with the HCs in terms of the reducing power ripples, steady-state error (SSE), track references, and total harmonic distortion (THD) of current of the doubly-fed induction generator (DFIG) based multi-rotor wind turbine (MRWT) system. Simulation is performed using Matlab to validate the performance of the DPC-STHC of a DFIG-MRWT and the obtained numerical and graphical results were compared with DPC-HCs in case of different tests. Also, the comparison between the two controls was made in terms of the THD of current, power ripples, SSE, and overshoot. The numerical results demonstrate the high performance of the DPC-STHC compared to the DPC-HCs, as the DPC-STHC improves the active power ripples by ratios estimated at 28.76% and 30.48% in both tests. The DPC-STHC reduced the SSE value of reactive power by ratios estimated at 76.55% and 24.62% in both tests. Also, improves the THD value of the current by 6.66% and 11.01% in both tests. The results show the efficiency and satisfactory performance of the DPC-STHC in all tests performed on DFIG compared to the DPC.

Coupled inductor‐based buck power factor correction (PFC) converter with soft switching

SummaryIn this study, couple inductor‐based buck power factor correction (PFC) converter is designed to mitigate dead zones of the converter. To minimize switching losses, all switches are controlled using a soft switching method, eliminating the need for snubber circuits. The circuit is controlled by an analog UC3843 pulse width modulation (PWM) integrated circuit (IC), providing natural PFC capability, which simplifies control and offers advantages in terms of size and cost compared to conventional ones. Simulation studies and prototype implementation are carried out to evaluate performance of the topology. The converter operates within a voltage range of 90–280 Vrms and has a power rating of 150 W. The results from both simulation and experimental analyses indicate that power factor (PF) of the circuit exceeds 98% and total harmonic distortion (THD) of the input current is found to be below 5% under various input voltage and load conditions. Furthermore, proposed topology demonstrated high efficiency, with measurements of 93% at full load and 95.6% at half load under 220 Vrms input voltage and 80 Vdc output voltage conditions. Outcomes highlight that the proposed topology achieves pure sinusoidal input current and exhibits competitive performance compared to other topologies used in the industry.

Design of a novel control hysteresis algorithm for photovoltaic systems for harmonic compensation

Solar photovoltaic (PV) system design and integration with an existing AC grid is growing very fast in recent years and used by many of them as they are pollution-free, structure is limited and maintenance free. From the factors considering, the performance of PV system depends upon the inverter output voltage tested for linear, non-linear, with harmonic, and without harmonic loads. Generated due to the nonlinear loads. Better inverter control techniques are developed to maintain grid power quality. This article discusses the analysis and comparison of pulse width modulation (PWM) converters with unique and state of the art nonlinear control schemes and various modulation approaches. The primary objective of this research is controlling an active filtering hysteresis PWM converter with no sensors. A simple structure with hysteresis current control method total harmonic distortion (THD) is lower when compared with the sinusoidal pulse width modulation (SPWM) method. The said claims are supported by employing computer simulations using MATLAB/Simulink and different control approaches, such as proportional plus integral and artificial neural network controllers.