Wind Turbine Generator Research Articles

Application of optimal control for wind integrated power system

<div align="center"><span>This paper presents the modeling and application of an optimal controller for frequency and tie-line power stability for a two-area interconnected hydro-thermal power plant having tandem compound non-reheat turbines integrated with wind power generation having doubly fed induction generator (DFIG) wind turbines in each area. The power system is interconnected using AC tie-lines. The designed optimal controller was implemented and the system dynamic responses for three power system model states were obtained considering a 1% load fluctuation in one of the areas. The optimal control strategy presented in this paper depends on formulating an error value and finding the feedback gains corresponding to each state of the system, which are easily attainable as outputs. The analysis was undertaken and verified by calculating the performance index value, the closed ring real and imaginary values, finding the feedback gains, and through graphical simulations of the three system models under investigation. The output of the optimal controller was enhanced when the DFIG-based wind turbines were installed in each area combined with a superconducting magnetic energy storage (SMES) unit and a thyristor control phase shifter (TCPS).</span></div>

Control of Cascaded/Brushless Doubly-Fed Induction Motors With Real-Time Torque Optimization

Brushless doubly-fed induction machines offer a potential alternative to regular doubly-fed induction generators for wind turbines, due to higher reliability and lower maintenance costs. As motors and generators, the brushless machines could also be part of new technological solutions for hybrid-electric propulsion, including aircraft propulsion. A main advantage is that most of the power would be transferred from generators to motors without electronic conversion. The paper proposes a new speed control algorithm that maximizes the available torque within the limits of the control winding currents and ensures anti-windup protection. The maximum torque and the control variables are obtained through simple analytical computations. The derivations of the paper are based on a complex-variable representation that simplifies the mathematical model and the control algorithm. Compact formulas specify the controller parameters as functions of the machine parameters and of the desired closed-loop behavior. The results are tested on a laboratory testbed using a cascaded doubly-fed induction motor and demonstrate fast responses reaching torque limits that are computed in real-time by the algorithm. While control is achieved through the converter interfaced with the control windings, the data shows that most of the active and reactive power is exchanged directly through the power windings. Similar results are obtained in simulations of a larger brushless doubly-fed induction motor.

Energy management strategies of hybrid renewable energy systems: A review

Burning fossil fuels results in more emissions than generating electricity from renewable sources. The transition to renewable energy from fossil fuels, which currently produce the majority of emissions, is essential to preventing the climatic disaster. Hybrid energy generation systems are still in their infancy. It is envisaged that future technology developments would lead to greater application and more economical goods. There will be more standardised designs, which will make it easier to select a system that is suitable for a certain application. The components will communicate more with one another. As a result, control, monitoring, and diagnosis will be made simpler. The hybrid energy system (HES), also known as hybrid power, is expected to be the long-term power solution for microgrid (MG) systems. This study compares and contrasts several theories and conventional approaches to controlling HRES’s control and energy consumption. A successful energy management strategy has been created using a variety of methods and procedures. The effectiveness of an EMS is determined by its control architecture and the solution approach used; common topologies include hierarchical, decentralised and centralised EMS. Supply side management and demand side management, two EMS components, will be discussed later. The three EMS control architectures are examined in this section. In order to determine the most practical and dependable solution with the lowest Net present cost (NPC), COE and realistic environmental consequences, various hybridisation cases of a PV panel, wind turbine, battery storage and diesel generator are designed, analysed and compared using DSM. The results of taking into account DSM indicated a reduction in CO2 emissions of 25%, NPC emissions of 14.8%, COE emissions of 14% and an increase in RF emissions of 8.5%. Two fundamental metrics – the DSM Quality Index for technical benefits and the DSM Appreciation Index for economic advantages – are used to assess the technical and economic benefits of DSM.

Numerical and experimental investigation of geometric parameters influence on power generation of INVELOX wind turbine

Wind energy is a key contributor to current transitional trends toward green energy resources. Wind turbines, therefore, act as the main of the wind energy power generation hierarchy, which converts the kinetic energy of wind into electric power. However, low wind velocity is a limiting factor that significantly diminishes the power generation capacity of wind turbines. Alternatively, ducted wind turbines provide a sustainable solution for application in areas with low wind velocity. In the present work, a numerical investigation has been performed to investigate the variation in the power generation capacity of INVELOX with varying geometric parameters. Initially, a numerical investigation of the original INVELOX model was performed to validate the numerical framework and establish the obtained results as a reference. Afterwards, the shape of the funnel, fins/supporting structure, and venturi parameters were varied to analyze their influence on the maximum velocity achieved at the throat. Subsequently, a novel semi-dome concept is added to the model based on numerical results. The results showed that the maximum velocity ratio has been improved from 2.125 to 3.13. Furthermore, power generation capacity was also increased by 3.2 times compared with the original INVELOX design by applying optimized geometric parameters and the semi-dome concept.

Power maximization control of small wind system using permanent magnet synchronous generator

This article describes modeling and simulations to determine a method for the power performance evaluation of autonomous wind turbine system with this simple load scheme. The method applies to small systems equipped with a permanent magnet generator in the wind turbine a diode rectifier, boost converter and batteries. In this work, the aerodynamic characteristics of wind turbines and the power conversion system topology are explained. The maximum power tracking of the wind turbine generator system using the Matlab software is presented and its results show, at least in principle, that the maximum power tracking algorithm developed is suitable for wind turbine generation systems.

Power system harmonic analysis with real geomagnetically induced current from the 2003 halloween storm

It is well understood that geomagnetically induced currents (GICs) flow through the grounded neutrals of wye-connected transformers, generating harmonic currents that flow along frequency-dependent transmission lines. Harmonic currents affect protection systems and cause harmonic voltage drops that disturb power system voltage stability. In the literature, GICs are modelled as dc-currents for harmonic analysis. However, GICs are multi-frequency currents having both positive and negative polarities. Therefore, a representative harmonic analysis of power systems is only possible when GICs are modelled as multi-frequency AC currents. In this paper, the authors subjected a multi-machine power system model to real GICs from the 2003 halloween storm. Representative time intervals within the storm were selected, and a harmonic analysis of transmission line and generator stator currents was carried out. The results showed that the harmonic spectrum of currents fluctuated with a real GIC instead of reaching a steady state with a DC model for GIC. Moreover, harmonics induced on generator windings increase the risk of dynamic voltage and power system instability. The results confirm the susceptibility of power system generators to GICs and validate the use of synthetic GIC for modelling the effect of power system stability.

A model predictive control strategy for enhancing fault ride through in PMSG wind turbines using SMES and improved GSC control

Wind energy has emerged as a prominent player in the realm of renewable energy sources, both in terms of capacity and technological adaptability. Among the various renewable energy technologies, wind turbine generators stand out as the most widely employed. Recently, gearless permanent magnet synchronous generators have gained traction in the wind energy sector due to their appealing features, such as reduced maintenance costs and the elimination of gearboxes. Nevertheless, challenges remain, particularly concerning the grid-friendly integration of wind turbines, specifically with regard to high voltage ride-through (HVRT) and low voltage ride-through (LVRT) improvements. These challenges pose a threat to grid stability, impede Wind Turbine Generator performance, and may lead to significant damage to wind turbines. To address these concerns, this research proposes an integrated strategy that combines a model predictive control (MPC) superconducting magnetic energy storage (SMES) device with a modified WTG grid-side converter control. By coupling SMES devices to the dc-link of Permanent Magnet Synchronous Generator WTGs, the proposed approach aims to achieve an overvoltage suppression effect during grid disturbances and provide support for grid reactive power. Through various test scenarios, the feasibility and practicality of this suggested technique are demonstrated.

STATCOM APPLICATION TO INCREASE VOLTAGE STABILTY OF WIND FARMS

The integration ratio of wind farms to the grid is increased tremendously derived by the need for cleaner and renewable energy. However, the stability of the grid is a major concern due to large wind and other renewable resource-based power plants. Thus, wind turbine generators must adhere to the regulations of other conventional forms of generation. To boost stability, especially voltage-based, Flexible AC Transmission Systems such as Static Var Compensators (SVC) or Static Synchronous Compensator (STATCOM) are put in the vicinity of the wind farm's connection point to the grid. This study is intended to model and simulate dynamically a wind farm using the Doubly Fed Induction Generator (DFIG) turbine type and STATCOM under faulty conditions. The model is implemented inside the DigSILENT Power Factory simulation tool. The results show that STATCOM can improve the voltage stability of wind farms at the point of connection to the grid.

Introducing AI applications in engineering education (PBL): An implementation of power generation at minimum wind velocity and turbine faults classification using AI

AbstractThis article explores the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) applications into project‐based learning (PBL) education as a means to enhance students' education. Specifically, the implementation of AI in the context of power generation is addressed, focusing on achieving power generation at minimum wind velocity and classifying turbine faults using AI techniques. The researchers have proposed a novel generating unit which is going to generate 1 KW of electric power at a specific flow rate of air and the generated power will be stored in the battery bank through the charge controller and then the load is driven from the battery through an inverter. Iron or core losses (Hysteresis, Eddy Current losses) can be acknowledged as one of the major reasons for the inefficiency of conventional generators, therefore anovel coreless model generator was proposed which also improved efficiency and reduces drag. Wind Turbine prototype was fabricated and deployed for the testing and validation of the proposed novel design. The design produced outstanding power ratings and electrical generation characteristics compared with other existing strategies at minimal air flow. Results proved that the proposed coreless axial flux generator has the capability to produce a better power rating compared with the existing wind turbine generators. Proposed Axial flux achieved 10.73 watt power at wind velocity at around 80 rpm. At a wind velocity of 10 m/s and around 800 rpm 313–330 kwh was produced by the proposed generator while the conventional generator produced around 300 kwh. The proposed generator design performed 35% better in terms of production efficiency under load and no load conditions. Moreover, faults in turbines are very common due to the various temperatures, therefore the faults have been classified using state‐of‐the‐art AI‐based classifiers. A comparison of space vector modulation (SVM) and Naive Bayes classifiers was performed in the study to classify wind turbine faults. It was found that both classifiers performed well in achieving high accuracy. SVM achieved a slightly higher accuracy of 0.9861 compared with Naive Bayes, which achieved an accuracy of 0.967. Based on the results, it can be inferred that SVM may be a more suitable classifier for wind turbine fault classification. The case study results demonstrated the potential of AI applications in PBL education, offering students a multidisciplinary learning experience that enhances their technical knowledge, problem‐solving skills, and teamwork abilities.

Mechanical–electrical‐grid model for the doubly fed induction generator wind turbine system considering oscillation frequency coupling characteristics

AbstractWith the evolution of renewable energies, many doubly fed induction generators (DFIGs) are being connected to the power grid, whose operation and grid‐connection stability have a major impact on the power grid. Currently, most studies focus on either modeling the mechanical–electrical section or the electrical‐grid section, and discussions have been limited to shaft oscillation or frequency coupling problems. In this study, a mechanical–electrical‐grid model of a DFIG was established to examine the impacts of wind speed and system control parameters on electrical damping and grid‐connection stability. The accuracy of the proposed model and validity of the analyses were verified using simulations. The following were observed: (1) In the case of changing wind speeds, the wind speed and the applied control model determine the shaft oscillation of DFIG, whereas the grid‐connected impedance on the rotor side is dependent on the wind speed. (2) At a constant wind speed, changes in control parameters under different control modes affect the dynamic characteristics of the drive train differently, whereas the grid‐connected impedance on the rotor side is primarily determined by the proportional gain of the inner/outer loop of the control system. The conclusions drawn from this study can further improve the safe and stable operation of DFIG wind power generation systems as well as their connection to the power grid.

Design and Implementation of an Online Efficiency-Optimized Multi-Functional Compensator for Wind Turbine Generators.

In recent years, the penetration of wind power generation has been growing steadily to adapt to the modern trend of boosting renewable energy (RE)-based power generation. However, the dynamic power flow of wind turbine generators (WTGs) is unpredictable and can have a negative impact on existing power grids. To solve this problem efficiently, this paper presents a multifunctional WTG intelligent compensator (WTGIC) for the advanced power management and compensation of power systems embedded with WTGs. The proposed WTGIC consists of a power semiconductor device (PSD)-based bidirectional three-phase inverter module and an energy storage unit (ESU). In order to reduce system costs and improve reliability, efficiency, and flexibility, various control functions and algorithms are integrated via a modularized all-digital control scheme. In this paper, the configuration of the proposed WTGIC is first introduced, and then the operating modes and related compensation and control functions are addressed. An online efficiency optimization algorithm is proposed, and the required controllers are designed and implemented. The designed functions of the proposed WTGIC include high-efficiency charging/discharging of the ESU, real-time power quality (PQ) compensation, and high-efficiency power smoothing of the WTGs. The feasibility and effectiveness of the proposed WTGIC are verified using case studies with simulations in the Powersim (PSIM) environment and the implementation of a small-scale hardware experimental system with TI's digital signal processor (DSP) TI28335 as the main controller.

Reliability analysis of floating offshore wind turbine generator based on failure prediction and preventive maintenance

Aiming at the failure problems of a floating offshore wind turbine (FOWT) generator, a preventive maintenance model based on failure prediction is established. Firstly, the fault tree method is adopted to calculate the generator reliability value under run or failure states. Secondly, quantitative analysis of the generator in a maintainable state is carried out by the Markov method. Finally, a system optimization model is established based on the failure prediction and preventive maintenance (FPPM) strategy. The single-objective teaching-learning-based optimization (TLBO) algorithm and multi-objective genetic algorithm (MOGA) are respectively used to solve the optimization problem. The results show that FPPM strategy can greatly improve the availability and mean time between failure (MTBF) value, which increase the system working time and efficiency. Multi-objective analysis can get the best combination of the system maintenance cost, availability, and risk than single-objective. The time interval of failure prediction is calculated as 19788 h and the system is in a safe state if the remaining life is predicted to be more than 101 h. Sensitivity analysis of the model is carried out to determine that the optimization objectives are less sensitive to variables, which verifies the rationality and accuracy of the proposed model.

Collaborative improvement of electrical‐thermal‐mechanical properties of kaolin‐filled ethylene propylene diene monomer and mechanism analysis

AbstractWith the rapid development of offshore wind power, large‐capacity wind turbine generators have put forward higher electrical and mechanical performance requirements for the cable. In this paper, kaolin/ethylene propylene diene monomer (EPDM) composites are prepared to investigate the effect of kaolin content on the electrical properties, mechanical properties and thermal conductivity of EPDM composites. The results show that appropriate amount of kaolin could synergistically improve the electrical‐thermal‐mechanical properties of EPDM. The composite with 30 wt% kaolin content achieves the best performance. The breakdown strength of kaolin/EPDM composites increases by 13.47%–72.19 kV/mm compared with that before modification, and the volume resistivity increases from 1013 to 1015 Ω·cm after modification. In addition, with the doping of kaolin, the tensile strength of composites significantly improves by over 500%–6.97 MPa, and the thermal conductivity of the composite is slightly improved. This work has important guiding significance for the development of insulation materials for cables.Highlights Kaolin in EPDM scattered more uniform after modification. The addition of kaolin improves the electrical‐thermal‐mechanical properties of the composite. Kaolin/EPDM composites have promising applications.

Permanent Magnet with Direct Drive Synchronous Wind Turbine Generator System

This postulation illustrated a control framework for an immediate drive permanent magnet coordinated generator wind turbine system, with the goal of maximising the efficiency of this framework and capturing the maximum amount of wind energy. Additionally, in order to decrease the electric speed sensor installed on the rotor shaft of the PMSG (Permanent Magnet), as well as to reduce the complexity of the framework equipment and increase the stability of the framework, a sliding mode eyewitness-based PM rotor position and speed sensor less control calculation is shown here.The wind turbine and the permanent magnet combination machine with PMSG simulation models are first built in this proposal, and then largest force control calculations for this framework are presented. The best tip speed percentage based on the highest force point after control is used to achieve the strongest catch for the framework.

The Expected Dynamics of the European Offshore Wind Sector in the Climate Change Context

The objective of this present work is to provide a more comprehensive picture of the wind conditions corresponding to some important European marine energy sites by considering both historical (1979–2020) and climatological data (2021–2100). As a first step, the wind energy profile of each site is assessed using some statistical methods (e.g., Weibull parameters) and some relevant indicators for the wind sector, such as the downtime period (<3 m/s). Since the offshore industry evolves very quickly, another objective of this work was to assess the performances of some large-scale wind turbines defined via capacity productions in the range of 15–25 MW. In terms of the capacity factor, the estimated values frequently exceed 60%, reaching a maximum of 76% in some cases, in line with the expected outputs of the new wind generators. In the final part of this work, several aspects are discussed, among them being the accuracy of the RCPs datasets or the current trends involving the wind sector. The offshore wind sector represents an important pillar of the European green market, which means that the future generation of wind turbines will play an important role in the consolidation of this sector and, eventually, in the expansion to new coastal areas.

Transient fault extraction for wind turbine generator bearing based on Bayesian biorthogonal sparse representation using adaptive redundant lifting wavelet dictionary

Aiming at the problem that it is difficult to detect effective transient impact characteristics of wind turbine generator bearing fault signals due to non-stationary and strong noise, a fault diagnosis method based on adaptive redundant lifting wavelet dictionary and Bayesian biorthogonal sparse representation (SR) algorithm is proposed. First, a Bayesian model is integrated into the biorthogonal matching pursuit (MP) algorithm to improve the use of dictionary atoms in the effective support set. Then, an adaptive redundant lifting wavelet is used to construct a dictionary matching the transient characteristics of the signal. Finally, the SR algorithm is established by integrating the Bayesian biorthogonal MP model and adaptive redundant lifting wavelet dictionary. Simulation and experimental results show that the proposed method can improve the accuracy of signal reconstruction of transient components and effectively extract bearing fault features, thus verifying the effectiveness and robustness of the method.

Dynamic Optimal Power Flow for Grid-Connected Multi-Microgrid System considering Outage of Energy Sources

Recently multi-microgrid (MMG) system has attained additional attention because of significant assimilation of renewable energy sources, enhanced efficacy, reliability and stability through harmonization as well as cooperation of power swap amongst the microgrids (MGs). In this manuscript, dynamic optimal power flow (DOPF) for grid-connected MMG integrated demand response program (DRP) with and without energy source’s outage is presented. Total cost over the entire time-period considering instinctive characteristics of different phases is minimized. Power swap between grid and each MG is bidirectional. Each MG comprises small hydro power plants (SHPPs), solar PV plants (SPVPs), wind turbine generators (WTGs), bioenergy power plants (BPPs) and plug-in electric vehicles (PEVs). MMG used here comprises MG 1 including IEEE 33-bus system, MG 2 including 15-bus system and MG 3 including IEEE 69-bus system. This DOPF problem is solved by using quasi-oppositional fast convergence real coded genetic algorithm (QOFCRCGA), self-organizing hierarchical particle swarm optimizer with time-varying acceleration coefficients (HPSO-TVAC), differential evolution (DE), artificial bee colony (ABC) optimization, fast convergence real coded genetic algorithm (FCRCGA) and real coded genetic algorithm (RCGA).

Short-Loop Recycling of Nd-Fe-B Permanent Magnets: A Sustainable Solution for the RE2Fe14B Matrix Phase Recovery.

The green transition initiatives and exploitation of renewable energy sources require the sustainable development of rare earth (RE)-based permanent magnets prominent technologies like wind turbine generators and electric vehicles. The recycling of RE-based permanent magnets is necessary for the future supply of critical rare-earth elements. The short-loop recycling strategies to directly reprocess Nd-Fe-B magnet waste are economically attractive and practical alternatives to conventional hydro- and pyrometallurgical processes. This study focuses on the development of a procedure to extract the (Nd, Pr)2Fe14B hard-magnetic phase from sintered Nd-Fe-B magnets. The extraction is achieved through preferential chemical leaching of the secondary, RE-rich phases using 1 M citric acid. Before the acid treatment, the magnets were pulverized through hydrogen decrepitation (HD) to increase the material's surface-to-volume ratio. The as-pulverized Nd-Fe-B powder was subsequently exposed to a 1 M citric acid solution. The effect of leaching time (5-120 min) on the phase composition and magnetic properties was studied. The results of the microstructural (SEM) and compositional (ICP-MS) analyses and the study of thermal degassing profiles revealed that the RE-rich phase is preferentially leached within 5-15 min of reaction time. Leaching of the secondary phases from the magnet's multi-phase microstructure is governed by the negative electrochemical potential of Nd and Pr. The extraction of (Nd, Pr)2Fe14B grains by the proposed acid leaching approach is compatible with the existing hydrogen processing of magnetic scrap (HPMS) technologies. The use of mild organic acid as a leaching medium makes the leaching process environmentally friendly, as the leaching medium can be easily neutralized after the reaction is completed.

Comparative Study of Control Methods for a 2MW Doubly-Fed Induction Generator Wind Turbine

This paper presents a comparative study of two control methods for a 2MW Doubly-Fed Induction Generator Wind Turbine (DFIG-WT) using MATLAB Simulink. The Proportional-Integral-Derivative (PID) and Model Predictive Control (MPC) control methods were implemented and evaluated in terms of their ability to track reference signals, disturbances tolerance and stabilize the system under uncertain wind conditions. The performance of the control methods was assessed using a high-fidelity WT model that incorporates the dynamics of the wind turbine, the wind speed, and the control system. The results show that the MPC control method outperform the PID control method in terms of tracking accuracy and disturbance tolerance.

Factor analysis of the Wind Farm LLC wind park (Donetsk region, Ukraine) impact on bats based on the index of their activity and dynamics of species diversity

In 2019-2020, research on the vocal activity of bats was carried out on the territory of the Wind Farm LLC wind park (800 MW), which is planned to be built near Mariupol (Donetsk region, Ukraine). There were used three methods of material collection: research on the vantage points, on transects and at a stationary point throughout the night. The total number of registered voices is 1554 signals, 695 of which are recorded in 2019 and 859 in 2020. The article shows the dynamics of voice activity by seasons and phases of the life cycle. Based on the activity index of mice, the dynamics of this indicator by months is shown. Forage and migratory behaviour of bats, calculated by determining the index of their activity, shows the average values. An analysis of the territorial distribution shows that bats confined to settlements and open water bodies. The species composition of bats, identified for 1235 signals registered in the territory of the projected wind farm, is stable and represented by widespread at least 10 species belonging to 6 taxonomic ranks. There were revealed some wind turbine generators near which the implementation of minimization measures is required. In total, according to forecasts, there are 10-16 such wind turbine generators within the Wind Farm LLC wind park. Monitoring the state of bats in the project area both during the construction of the wind farm and its operation is mandatory for the development and implementation of measures to minimize the possible negative impact on bats.