Investigations for enhancing ride-through period in matrix converter driven wind generators using MATLAB/Simulink

The most practical limitation of matrix converters is its sensitivity to input power grid disturbances due to its direct link with input AC grid. Particularly for using matrix converter in wind power generation, the associated grid code requirements for fault ride-through are the main bottleneck. This paper presents a simulated study of a short term ride-through strategy which enhances the fault ride-through period and supplies fault current to the grid during the under voltage fault. The strategy is applicable for any matrix converter driven adjustable speed drive (ASD). During the voltage sag period, continuous operation of the drive is achieved, through a succession of active vector application and discontinuation of matrix converter switches, with hysteretic control on the motor current magnitude. The above strategy of the ride-through operation presented in this paper, has been designed and tested using MATLAB/Simulink Modeling Tool. This tool helped in developing a real time model of the whole integrated grid-matrix converter and the drive system, and simulating the ride through conditions in that system.