Enhancement of Wind Energy Conversion Using Axial Flux Generator

Abstract

This paper investigates the application of the axial flux machine (AFM) to the wind energy conversion systems (WECS) to obtain high power and torque at reduced cost. By developing mathematical equations using the phase and active transformations, the three-phase model is transformed to two-phase equations by making both the stator and rotor as reference frames, finally converting to arbitrary reference frame, which is useful for the modelling of the axial flux machine. The torque, current, and voltage equations are expressed to improve the simulation reliability. Based on the developed equations, the mathematical model for the axial flux machine is developed using the MATLAB/Simulink. Starting with the axial flux motor model, when the load on the motor increases, how the parameters like torque, current, and speed of the motor vary are explored in this paper. Then for the axial flux generator model, when the wind speed exceeds the rated speed how the torque, line voltages, currents, power and speed of the generator behave are investigated and presented in this paper. The developed model in this paper could be extended to a twin-rotor axial flux synchronous machine, which will lead to the development of more efficient WECS.