Wide-band modeling of modular multilevel converters using extended-frequency dynamic phasors

Abstract

This paper presents a model for a Modular Multilevel Converter (MMC) using extended-frequency dynamic phasors. The model is based upon a series of harmonicfrequency representations that are obtained for the fundamental and dominant harmonic components. Depending on the requirements of the study to be conducted and the desired level of model accuracy, a low-order model (i.e., average-value) or an arbitrarily wideband model may be constructed. The paper describes the principles of modeling using extended-frequency dynamic phasors, and applies them to an MMC connected to a power system represented using a Thevenin equivalent. The model contains details of the MMC's control system including its high-level control circuitry, as well as voltage balancing and synchronization components. The developed model is then validated by comparing it against a fully-detailed electromagnetic transient (EMT) simulation model developed in PSCAD/EMTDC simulator. Comparisons are made to establish the accuracy of the model (both its low-order and wide-band variants) and to assess the computational advantages it ofiers compared to conventional EMT models.