Simulation of Switched Reluctance Generator in Low and Medium Speed Operations for Wind Energy Application

Abstract

This paper provides a new approach to maximize the amount of power generated by the switched reluctance generator (SRG) in the low and medium speed operations. There are many control variables which affect the power generated such as: firing angles, reference current, speed and voltage. It will incur high costs and time consuming to modify the variables using experimental set up. Hence, to minimize time, cost and aid in the manufacturing industry, a simulation model of the overall SRG drive is developed. The objective of the work is to identify the optimal parameters and characterize them under closed loop control. The study indicates that there is an optimal voltage, firing angles and reference current at each speed range. Also, the percentage of the power generated can be categorized as a function of dwell angle and speed at optimal voltage level. The optimal dwell angle is determined using the least square method. Within the closed loop system, the high percentage of power generated can be maintained by adjusting the voltage level. It allows operation in single pulse mode as opposed to the conventional current chopping during the low and medium speed.