Microgrid Kinetic Generator Control for Transient Load Support
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Solution Overview
Problem
Offshore drilling rigs face challenges in managing transient and steady-state electric loads due to the slow response of AC combustion generators and battery storage systems, which can lead to power failures with catastrophic consequences.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of kinetic generators that store energy kinetically and can rapidly respond to load changes, allowing for efficient delivery and storage of energy, thereby reducing the need for large spinning reserves and battery storage systems.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If AC combustion generators are used to provide electric power in a microgrid, then steady-state power supply is reliable, but the response time to transient load changes is slow
Solution Approach 1:
The power generation system is segmented into two distinct components: AC combustion generators for steady-state base load power supply, and kinetic generators (flywheels) for transient load response. This segmentation allows each component to specialize in its optimal function, resolving the contradiction between reliability and response speed.
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from a static generator configuration to a dynamic hybrid system where kinetic generators can rapidly adjust their power output in response to changing load conditions. The kinetic generators' ability to quickly spin up and down provides the dynamic response capability needed for transient loads while combustion generators maintain steady-state operation.
2Reliability
If large spinning reserve is maintained to support transient loads, then load changes can be accommodated, but system size and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
Kinetic generators act as an intermediary component between the slow-response combustion generators and the rapidly varying electrical loads. They absorb the transient load variations through their rotational inertia, allowing combustion generators to operate at optimal steady-state conditions without requiring excessive spinning reserve capacity.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the operational parameters of power generation by introducing a storage-based approach. Instead of continuously running combustion generators at high capacity to handle peak loads, the system uses kinetic energy storage to bridge the gap between base load generation and peak demand, optimizing generator utilization and reducing overall system size.
3Reliability
If battery storage systems are used to support transient loads, then power supply continuity is improved, but response time to transients remains slow
Solution Approach 1:
The system replaces electrochemical battery storage with a mechanical kinetic energy storage system based on flywheels. The mechanical rotation of the flywheel allows for extremely rapid energy discharge and charge cycles, providing both the reliability of continuous power supply and the fast response time needed for transient load support.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This solution enables the microgrid to support transient loads without large generator spinning reserve, reduces system size and cost, and enhances reliability by providing fast response times and efficient energy management.
Implementation Method 1
one or more kinetic generators electrically coupled to the electric power bus, the one or more kinetic generators storing energy therein in kinetic form
Implementation Method 2
delivering energy to an electric power bus at least partially from one or more kinetic generators electrically coupled to the electric power bus
Data Source
AI summary
A method for operating a microgrid electric power generation system includes delivering energy to an electric power bus at least partially from one or more kinetic generators electrically coupled to the electric power bus, controlling the one or more kinetic generators in response to a change in a load such that a magnitude of a voltage on the electric power bus remains within a predetermined voltage range, and controlling one or more combustion generators electrically coupled to the electric power bus based at least in part on an operating state of the one or more kinetic generators. The one or more kinetic generators are capable of (a) delivering energy stored therein to the electric power bus, and (b) storing energy in kinetic form.