Fault ride through capability enhancement for self-excited induction generator-based wind parks by installing fault current limiters

This study presents a new technique for improving the fault ride through (FRT) capability of self-excited induction generator (SEIG)-based wind parks by implementing fault current limiters (FCLs) using the electromagnetic transient program simulation program (PSCAD/EMTDC). A non-inductive high-temperature superconducting coil of an FCL is developed comprising its major components, operation control algorithm, sequence of events and fault detection techniques. The test system is adopted with an integrated 80 MW SEIG-based wind park that comprises a static synchronous compensator (STATCOM) at each wind turbine. A novel damping voltage control algorithm for the STATCOM is presented for improving the FRT and damping the power system oscillation. FCLs are installed in series with the high voltage (HV) side of the substation transformers of the wind park. The operation of the FCLs is tested in the proposed system to demonstrate its superior performance for reducing the high fault currents and improving the FRT capability. The system performance is tested in steady-state operation and in response to system contingencies, taking into account the impact of the short circuit ratios on the transient stability margin with and without FCLs. Thereafter, the simulation results are presented to demonstrate the effectiveness of installing the FCLs for improving the FRT and transient stability margin of the wind park.