Control Method for Protecting Switching Devices in Power Converters in Doubly Fed Induction Generator Power Systems

Abstract

Systems and methods for protecting switching devices in a power converter in doubly fed induction generator power systems are provided. A DFIG system can include a DFIG generator and a power converter comprising a line side converter and a rotor side converter connected by a DC bus. Each of the line side converter and rotor side converter can include a plurality of bridge circuits. Each bridge circuit can include a plurality of switching devices. A method can include monitoring, by a control device, a voltage of the DC bus of the power converter. The method can further include implementing, by the control device, a switching device protection measure based at least in part on the voltage of the DC bus of the power converter. The switching device protection measure can be operable to protect the switching devices by operating the switching devices within a safe operating area.

Description

FIELD[0001]The present subject matter relates generally to power systems, and more particularly to systems and methods for protecting switching devices in power converters used in doubly fed induction generator power systems.BACKGROUND[0002]Wind turbines have received increased attention as a renewable energy source for generating electricity. Wind turbine power systems, such as doubly fed induction generator (DFIG) power systems, often include a power converter with a regulated DC bus. For example, a DFIG power system can include a power converter with a rotor side converter and a line side converter coupled together via a DC bus.[0003]In a typical configuration, the rotor side converter and the line side converter can each include a plurality of bridge circuits, which can include switching devices, such as insulated gate bipolar transistors (“IGBTs”). The IGBTs or other switching devices in the rotor converter can be switched to convert AC power from the rotor of the DFIG to a DC ...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

The present patent is about a method for protecting switch devices in a power converter of a doubly-fed induction generator (DFIG) system. The method involves monitoring the voltage of the DC bus and implementing a switching device protection measure based on that voltage to ensure the switch devices are operating safely. The technical effect of this method is to prolong the life of the switch devices and reduce the likelihood of failure, which can improve the overall reliability and efficiency of the power converter system.

Problems solved by technology

However, the DFIG power system may be exposed to transient voltages, such as during grid disturbances, which can cause oscillations of power into and out of the power converter.

This can cause the DC bus voltage to oscillate.

However, shutting down the power converter to protect the switching devices can limit the availability of the DFIG power system, and reduce the amount of power generated by the DFIG power system.

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