Open-Loop Modal Coupling Analysis for a Multi-Input Multi-Output Interconnected MTDC/AC Power System

This paper examines the small-signal stability of an integrated multiterminal dc (MTDC)/ac power system. The examination is based on a closed-loop multi-input multi-output interconnected model of the MTDC/ac power system, which comprises an MTDC subsystem and an ac subsystem. The focus of the examination is the condition of open-loop modal coupling when an open-loop oscillation mode of the MTDC subsystem is close to an open-loop oscillation mode of the ac subsystem on the complex plane. Analysis in the paper indicates that when the open-loop modal coupling happens, the multivariable ac-dc dynamic interactions between the MTDC and ac subsystems degrade the small-signal stability of the MTDC/ac power system. Estimation on the degree of stability degradation is derived. Hence, the paper reveals the mechanism about why the integration of the MTDC network may bring about the small-signal instability risk. In addition, a method of open-loop modal analysis to detect the risk is proposed. Example multimachine power systems with an MTDC network are presented to validate the analysis and conclusions made in the paper. Application of the proposed open-loop modal coupling analysis for parameter tuning of converter control systems of the MTDC network is demonstrated.