Micro-hydro Power Generation Research Articles

Digital Signal Processor-based Controller Design and Implementation for Self-excited Induction Generator

This article presents the design and implementation of a digital signal processor (DSP)-based induction generator controller (IGC) to regulate the voltage and frequency of a single-phase self-excited induction generator (SEIG), which employs a three-phase squirrel-cage induction machine that is suitable for the stand-alone power mode and employing an unregulated turbine, such as micro-hydro power generation. A three-phase induction machine can be used to generate single-phase supply at constant voltage and frequency if the electrical load is constantly maintained at its terminals. A prototype model of a single-phase SEIG is developed, such that the load on the SEIG remains constant despite a change in the consumer load. The transient behavior of the developed DSP-based SEIG–IGC system at different operating conditions, such as application and removal of static (resistive and reactive) and dynamic (single-phase induction motor) load, is investigated to demonstrate the capabilities of the proposed IGC.

DSP Based Induction Generator Controller for Single Phase Self Excited Induction Generator

This paper presents the design and implementation of a digital signal processor (DSP) based induction generator controller (IGC) to regulate the voltage and frequency of a single phase self excited induction generator (SEIG), suitable for stand alone power mode employing unregulated turbine such as micro-hydro power generation. The developed prototype model of a DSP based SEIG-IGC system is cost effective, reliable, flexible and capable of network based application for remote configuration with TCP/IP stack. The transient behavior of the developed DSP based SEIG-IGC system at different operating conditions such as the application and removal of static (resistive and reactive) and dynamic (single phase induction motor) load is investigated to demonstrate the capabilities of the proposed IGC.

Development of Micro-Hydropower Generation System in Tottori Prefecture

Development of Micro-Hydropower Generation System in Tottori Prefecture

An artificial neural network based micro-hydropower generation scheduling: considering demand profile and environmental impact

The Philippine government has a continuing effort to reduce the utilization of fossil fuels which emit substantial amount of greenhouse gases. A suitable means of tapping energy which is clean and environmental friendly is sought. One such energy source is the micro-hydropower. In this paper, an artificial neural network (ANN) is used for predicting the generation of a micro-hydropower plant (MHPP) for a period of 1 month. A monthly forecasting of hydropower discharge was first conducted, which was then followed by the computation of the power output of MHPP. Results from simulation study show that a multi-layer perceptron (MLP) employing back propagation (BP) is successful in forecasting the discharge as exemplified by a less than 5% error for the test data. Results of statistical analysis confirm the validity of the forecasted discharge. MHPP supply (Estoperez and Nagasaka in Proceedings of HNICEM, Philippines, 2005) supplemented with the demand profile enables to determine the monthly reduced carbon emission of 46.8 tons.

Transient Analysis of Self-Excited Induction Generator With Electronic Load Controller (ELC) Supplying Static and Dynamic Loads

This paper presents a transient analysis of a self-excited induction generator (SEIG) with electronic load controller (ELC) used in stand-alone micro-hydro power generation employing uncontrolled turbines. In view of the need to feed both dynamic [three-phase induction motor (IM)] and static loads from such systems, the transient behavior due to switching in of such loads is of interest and is carried out here. A composite mathematical model of the total system has been developed by combining the modeling of prime mover, SEIG, ELC, and load. Simulated results are compared with the experimental ones, obtained on a developed prototype of an SEIG-ELC system for the starting of an IM and switching in a resistive load. For the starting of an IM, a star/delta starter is used to avoid inrush current. Harmonic analysis is carried out to find total harmonic distortion of the terminal voltage and current to assess its power quality.

An investigation of the fluid-structure interaction in an oscillating-wing micro-hydropower generator

in Fluid Structure Interaction II, Eds. Chakrabarti, S.K., Brebbia, C.A., Almorza, D. and Gonzalez-Palma, R., WIT Press, Southampton, UK, 2003, pp. 73-82.

A simplified propeller turbine runner design for stand alone micro-hydro power generation units

SYNOPSIS In most developing countries, the vast majority of potential micro-hydro power generation sites, i.e. with power outputs up to 100kW, are found in areas with high rainfall or extensive irrigation works with small canal drops. These sites, where the available head does not exceed 5m, are usually referred to as low head sites. The present paper introduces a simplified design of a propeller turbine suitable for direct coupling to an induction generator. The use of such a unit, is a promising technology for setting up low-head power generation schemes for village electrification in developing countries. Emphasis is given to the hydraulic design of the runner blades which are made of constant thickness sheets of metal. The use of such a shape is ideal for low cost manufacturing in developing countries as it enables local skills and materials to be used.

The use of propeller turbines in low head stand alone micro hydro electric power generation units

SYNOPSIS The mountainous regions of developing countries offer a great potential for small scale hydroelectric schemes, running as stand alone units. Such schemes with power output less than 100kW are usually referred to as micro-hydro power generation units. For low—head sites (available head less than 10 m), there is a vast number of suitable sites in countries with less mountainous areas and high rainfall, or extensive irrigation canals. The present paper introduces the design features of an appropriate propeller turbine design. The turbine will be directly coupled to an induction generator. The design requirements, materials selection and manufacturing processes are analysed with respect to experiences from pilot projects within the UK and abroad.