Design, modeling and simulation of variable speed Axial Flux Permanent Magnet Wind Generator

Variable speed wind energy systems using permanent magnet generators are increasingly becoming popular for both standalone and grid connected applications. Axial Flux Permanent Magnet Generators (AFPMG) are a relatively new class of generators which are being considered as effective alternative to conventional Radial Flux generators, especially in wind applications, owing to their special features and attractive benefits. This paper presents the design of an Axial Flux Permanent Magnet Generator well suited for variable speed wind applications. A 2000 VA, 240 V, 3 phase, 10 pole, 5 rps AFPMG with Single Stator Double Rotor configuration has been considered for the design and analysis. The behaviour of the AFPM wind generator is investigated for different wind conditions, through dynamic modeling and simulation. The comprehensive modeling of AFPMG along with the details of the models for the Horizontal Axis Wind Turbine (HAWT), drive train, speed controller and pitch controller have been presented. The complete system model is implemented on MATLAB/Simulink platform and simulations are carried out for various wind conditions. The response of the generator for both constant wind input and variable wind pattern have been presented and discussed. The functioning of pitch controller is also verified for high wind speed conditions.