Detailed and Average Models of a Grid-Connected MMC-Controlled Permanent Magnet Wind Turbine Generator

Abstract

In this paper, a detailed model and an average model of an MMC (Modular Multilevel Converter)-controlled Permanent Magnet Synchronous Generator (PMSG)-based direct drive wind turbine are proposed. The models are used to analyze the steady-state and transient characteristics of the grid connectivity study of the wind turbine generator. Configuration of the electrical topology and the control scheme of the wind turbine generator for both models are comprehensively presented. In the detailed model, the MMC circuit is represented by power electronic IGBTs, with switching phenomena considered. Meanwhile, in the average model, the MMC circuit is simplified by using voltage source representation, hence the complexity of the MMC circuit and the simulation duration of the analysis can be reduced. Comparative analysis between the detailed and the simplified models is also investigated through simulation performed using PSCAD/EMTDC. The simulation results show that both models have a good controllability and dynamic stability under steady-state and transient conditions. The simulation results also confirm that the average model has adequate accuracy, and simulation time can be reduced significantly.