The application of the modular multilevel matrix converter in high-power wind turbines

The trend in wind turbines has shown an ongoing power rating growth, reaching sizes up to 10 MW. Multilevel converters have therefore become a favourable solution for Multi-MW Wind Energy Conversion Systems (WECSs), due to high efficiency, reliability, controllability and the ability to reach high p...

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Bibliographic Details
Main Authors: Diaz, Matias, Espinoza, Mauricio, Mora, Andreas, Cardenas, Roberto, Wheeler, Patrick
Format: Conference or Workshop Item
Published: 2016
Subjects:
Online Access:https://eprints.nottingham.ac.uk/34535/
Description
Summary:The trend in wind turbines has shown an ongoing power rating growth, reaching sizes up to 10 MW. Multilevel converters have therefore become a favourable solution for Multi-MW Wind Energy Conversion Systems (WECSs), due to high efficiency, reliability, controllability and the ability to reach high power/voltage ratings. Moreover, stringent grid codes to regulate the connection of WECSs to the electrical networks have been developed in countries with a high penetration of wind energy. In this context, this paper introduces the novel application of the Modular Multilevel Matrix Converter for interfacing Multi-MW Wind Turbines to provide decoupled input-output regulation, variable speed operation and fulfilment of modern grid codes.