‘Design, optimization and simulation of grid connected small wind turbines for low cost applications’


Subject of the present work is the study, optimization, and simulation of a small axial flux coreless generator with permanent magnets for grid connected wind energy applications.

An introduction is made on the principles of appropriate technology applications while the basic concepts of aerodynamics and turbine orientation that will be used are presented . A comparison between AFPM and RFPM generators in the scale of 6kW power is presented.

The complete sizing process of generators in the range of output power from 3 to 6,5 kW is presented, including the determination of the nominal operating conditions. The equations for calculating the dimensions of the coils, as well as the total weight and cost of the generators are determined.

According to the previous approach the design is optimized for the whole range of power. The variables of the optimization are the dimensions of the magnets (length and width). Furthermore the factors of frequency and magnet grade are examined. Criteria of the optimization are the lowest cost and the lowest volume. The dimensions of the magnets are optimized for each power separately as well as for the whole power range resulting in a specific ‘widespread’ magnet. The optimized generators from all different optimizations and approaches are simulated and their characteristics are compared to each other, resulting in the best magnet grade and frequency to be used.

Furthermore a 3 kW generator is tested in the laboratory and the resulting measurements are compared to the simulation results.

Finally, conclusions are drawn and proposals for improvements and further work are presented.

Keywords: appropriate technology, low cost, rural electrification, axial flux generators, small wind turbines, permanent magnets, optimization, microgrids, minimization of cost, minimization of volume, optimized magnets, magnet grade

Author: Thanos Zarogiannis

Responsible PhD: Kostas Latoufis / latoufis@power.ece.ntua.gr

Supervising Professor: Nikos Hatziargyriou / nh@power.ece.ntua.gr

PDF: Full version (Greek) and Short version (English)

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