Minimization of active power and torque ripple for a doubly fed induction generator in medium voltage wind power systems under unbalanced grid conditions

Abstract

This paper investigates control algorithms for a doubly fed induction generator with a back-to-back three-level neutral-point clamped voltage source converter in medium voltage wind power systems under unbalanced grid conditions. Three different control algorithms to compensate for unbalanced conditions have been investigated with respect to four performance factors; fault ride-through capability, instantaneous active power pulsation, harmonic distortions and torque pulsation. The control algorithm having a zero amplitude of torque ripple shows the most cost-effective performance concerning torque pulsation. The least active power pulsation is produced by the control algorithm that nullifies the oscillating component of the instantaneous stator active and reactive powers. A combination of these two control algorithms depending on the operating requirements and the depth of the grid unbalance presents the most optimized performance factors under generalized unbalanced operating conditions leading to high performance DFIG wind turbine systems.