Optimized performance of solar powered variable speed induction motor drive

This paper deals with the design and development of a photovoltaic (PV) array fed cage induction motor for an isolated water pumping system. A drive system using a chopper circuit to track power from the PV for different solar and a current controlled voltage source inverter (CC-VSI) to optimally match the motor to PV characteristics is presented. The model equations governing interaction of torque and flux producing components of motor current with available solar power is developed for the operation of the system at optimum efficiency. Performance of the system is presented for different realistic operating conditions, which demonstrates its special features for applications such as solar water pumping system, solar vehicles and flour mills located in hilly and isolated areas,.