Modeling and design of a wind turbine system coupled to a CV transmission operating in the West Texas region

Date

2017-08

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Abstract

Grid integration of renewable energy sources has proven to be a challenging problem that has been widely studied and continues to be of interest. Most modern wind energy conversion systems utilize power electronics converters/inverters to maintain voltage phase, frequency and magnitude at the grid-dictated values. While power electronics is an expanding area of interest, currently available solutions report high failure rates and elevated maintenance costs. In this work we investigate the performance of a continuously variable speed wind turbine using the dynamics published by Yves Rothenbuller of EPFL to model the dynamics of the CVT. Using real data sets of wind conditions in the South plains region of Texas, and performing simulations combined with a Simulink model of our experimental drivetrain, we incorporate the CVT model into a wind turbine model coupled to an induction generator. By controlling the driver axial forces of the CVT we control low- and high- speed shaft speeds to obtain maximum wind energy capture before the wind cut-out speed. The intent is to show how control inputs of the CVT affect power through the entire drivetrain to meet the objective of improving energy capture. The results for the overall integrated powertrain are presented and discussed integrating the CVT and the induction generator. The simulations were all performed utilizing real wind data taken from a met tower in the South plains area. The correct control of a gearless wind turbine yields encouraging results: • Improved energy capture. • Reduced power electronics needed for grid integration.

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Keywords

Wind energy, Wind turbine, CVT, Wind generator

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