Saturation harmonic effect of induction motor on aircraft power quality

Aero variable-frequency generators are employed in current airplanes to provide high power for increasing loads. Due to nonlinear characteristics of electrical material, an induction machine works at saturated state when aero power frequency is lower than its rated frequency. As a result, saturated machines generate harmonic current to the line of aircraft power system. To satisfy the requirements of power quality, current harmonic of induction machines should be restrained. The flux density and saturation factors are adopted in the study to analyze saturation state of induction machine and relevant current harmonic. Current harmonic components are investigated in terms of the degree and position of saturation. The airworthiness standard DO-160G for airborne equipment is referenced to assess the current harmonic influence on aircraft power quality.