A Comparative Study of PM Synchronous Generator for Micro Hydropower Plants

Abstract

Developing technology and growing population are increasing the need of countries for energy every passing day. Renewable energy resources, which are an environmentally friendly and local solution alternative to fossil fuels, are seen to be a significant source of supply in this matter. Among renewable energy resources, hydroelectric energy is in an advantageous position with its reliable potential and sustainable production. With the purpose of utilizing small flowing waters such as rivers and streams and solving problems of access to interconnected grids in rural areas, micro-type hydroelectric power plants have a significant potential for countries. This study carried out the design and performance analyses of permanent magnet synchronous generators with different numbers of poles for micro hydroelectric power plants. The generators’ flux density values and total voltage harmonic distortions were examined. Additionally, the cogging torque magnitudes have been analyzed. The generators were loaded with nominal loads, and the time-dependent waveforms of phase voltages were obtained. By subjecting the obtained voltages to Fourier analysis, their harmonic spectrum was created. Finally, by considering the amount of active material used for the designs, their costs were compared.

Keywords

• Finite element analysis
• Micro hydropower plant
• Synchronous generator

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