Open-Phase Fault-Tolerant DTC Technique for Three-Level NPC VSI-Fed Five-Phase Induction Motor Drives

Abstract

The demand for motor drives based on multiphase machines (MMs) is increasing due to their inherent fault-tolerant capabilities. To achieve satisfactory post-fault operation, a proper fault-tolerant controller is needed. Some direct-torque-control (DTC) techniques have been reported for five-phase induction motor (FPIM) drives under an open-phase fault (OPF). DTC offers simplicity, fast response, and less parameter sensitivity. However, the existing fault-tolerant DTC methods were designed for two-level voltage-source inverters (VSIs). A three-level neutral-point-clamped (NPC) VSI allows greater flexibility in the switching states, lower current and torque ripple, and reduced common-mode voltage (CMV). However, the increased number of switching states requires the design of new DTC methods, able to tolerate OPFs while providing satisfactory performance in various aspects. In this article, two fault-tolerant DTC techniques are developed for three-level NPC VSI-fed FPIM drives under an OPF. The possible switching states are synthesized with suitable virtual vectors (VVs), addressing the dc-link voltage balance, dv/dt, CMV, and dc-link utilization. The two methods are compared under an OPF in these terms, as well as regarding the average switching frequency. Comparative experimental results are provided to assess the viability of the developed DTC schemes at steady-state and dynamic conditions.