Dynamic Response Verification of Vector Controlled Induction Machines for Hydropower Emulation

Hydropower emulation aims to replicate the dynamics of a hydropower plant in a laboratory environment. It utilizes two direct-coupled induction machines driven by variable frequency drives (VFD) for mimicking the hydro-turbine and hydro-generator. VFD control parameter tuning is essential for the robust performance of the emulation setup. Detuning can result in a degradation of both steady-state and transient dynamics. This paper utilizes simulation-based verification of the impacts on dynamic response due to detuning. Specifically, we study the impact of temperature change on induction machine parameters and resulting dynamics when using indirect field-oriented control (IFOC). The results demonstrate that IFOC does not require parameter tuning in the presence of slower changes in hydro shaft dynamics. However, when the dynamics change rapidly, the performance deteriorates and requires compensation for acceptable performance.