Power Network

Application of Variable Speed Drives and Rotating Machines

Course summary

This course will give you a comprehensive understanding of all issues surrounding rotating machines and variable speed drives, including the basic theory behind this equipment, its application, how to specify it and how to diagnose and rectify likely problems.

The course gives you detailed information at every stage, covering specialist areas such as matching torque demand to torque delivery, external factors for selecting variable speed drives, harmonics, filters and how to safely interface with electricity utilities.

The specification of AC variable speed drives is thoroughly covered, including data sheets, bid comparisons, critical items and the basic questions to address in the specification and purchase of variable speed drive systems.

Course itinerary

Theory and Calculations

  • Three phase theory and calculations
  • Newton’s second law of motion
  • Single phase and three phase rectifiers

Electrical Machines and Transformer Reactances

  • Synchronous machines and reactances
  • Asynchronous machines and insulation systems
  • Types of driven equipment and their torque demand curves
  • Asynchronous machine performance and calculations

Introduction to Power Electronics

  • Types of electronic switches
  • Performance of IGCTs, IGBTs, Mosfets, gate turn off thyristors, transistors, thyristors
  • Characteristics and losses of main types
  • Variable outputs from AC and DC circuits
  • Commutation and PWM switching
  • Star modulation and assembly of rotating vectors
  • Direct torque control by flux vector resolution

Application of AC Variable Speed Drives

  • Overview and application examples
  • Safe working on HV drive systems
  • Options and types of available drives
  • Dimensioning of drives
  • Selection of motor and converter
  • Satisfying torque speed curves

Interface with Utility Companies

  • Switchgear ratings and short circuit levels
  • Interconnection to utility power systems
  • Demonstration of power system analysis programme
  • Short circuit levels and total harmonic distortion
  • Measurement of harmonics

Harmonics and Solutions

  • Harmonics and reduction methods
  • Transformer connections
  • Active filters

Specification of AC Variable Speed Drive Systems

  • Specifications and data sheets
  • ATEX (hazardous areas with VSDs)
  • Specification and sizing of transformers and cables
  • ‘K’ ratings of transformers
  • Motor voltage transients and VSDs
  • Typical applications, problems to solve and critical limits
  • EMC and cables

Installation and Commissioning

  • Diagnostic and troubleshooting
  • Pitfalls and problems
  • Motor voltage transients and VSDs
  • Ventilation of converters and motors
  • Bearings
  • Safety precautions when testing

Programme may be subject to amendment.

Why attend?

Delegates will gain:

  • An understanding of the selection and application of motors and variable speed drives
  • An introduction to the power electronics in use in variable speed drives
  • Become familiar with the issues around the selection of variable speed drives
  • A knowledge of the electricity interface issues and how this equipment effects the wider network
  • An understanding of the specification of variable speed drives
  • An insight into installation, commissioning and troubleshooting

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