A simulation analysis of double-fed induction generator for wind energy conversion using PSpice

A wind energy conversion system (WECS) differs from a conventional power system. In a conventional power plant, the power generation can be controlled. But, the power output of a WECS fluctuates with the wind. This variable power generation nature makes it difficult for analysis, design, and management of a WECS so that various approaches have been developed to study WECS behaviors. Although a transient simulation is important to understand WECS performance in a short time period, the dynamic steady-state simulation is a valuable approach to comprehend WECS characteristics in a broader spectrum. This paper explores steady-state characteristics of a typical modern variable-speed WECS that uses double-fed induction generators (DFIG), a variable-speed generator widely used in the wind power industry, as its generating facilities. The dynamic steady-state simulation model of the DFIG is developed using PSpice. Simulation analysis is performed to investigate a variety of DFIG characteristics, including torque-speed, and real and reactive-power over speed characteristics. Based on the analysis, the DFIG operating characteristics are studied