Influence of dc-link converter on operational performance of the power conversion train of wind energy converters with PMSM

With increasing nominal wind park power, interest in the operating behavior of the plants and the wind park is developing. Main criteria for the quality of the operating behavior are based on mains pollution (e.g. harmonics) and the power fluctuation through variations of the wind speed. The dynamic and stationary operating behavior of wind energy converters (WEC) are defined by the drive train structure and the control algorithm. The essence of this paper is the investigation on the operating behaviors of different WECs generator systems in relation to their influence on the mechanical drive train's operating performance. Because of practical experiences so far, only a few concepts are suitable for the design of the electrical part. Therefore, in this paper, a theoretical and simulation based comparison will be carried out. Five different concepts (some state-of-the-art and some new creations especially for off-shore use) therefore, are compared in relation to necessary requirements. (7 pages)