Grid-Connected Open-end Winding Induction Motor Drives

An open winding approach can lead to substantial performance improvement on grid-connected induction motors, which are sti l l largely used for constant speed appl ications. Exploiting an open-end winding configuration to manage bidirectional power flows , the proposed configuration is less expensive than a conventional variable frequency induction motor drive , since a bidirectional controlled recti fier is not required, neither grid-side fi lters. In constant speed appl ications the proposed approach not only is able to maximize the average motor efficiency, but also to improve the power factor, limiting the start-up current and compensating the effects of vol tage sags. Moreover, an energy storage system can be straightforwardly introduced in the system, enabling load peak shaving and load shi fting operations. The proposed approach is first theoretical introduced and analyzed, then a performance assessment is accompl ished by simulations.