Laboratory testing methods for electric power systems are being enhanced by novel simulation techniques such as Power Hardware-in-the-Loop, Controller Hardware-in-the-Loop and Co-simulation, but practical experience with their use is limited and not yet widespread. Under the leadership of the University of Strathclyde – Glasgow, SIRFN participants are tapping into their world-class research infrastructure to share expertise and jointly evaluate these emerging techniques with the objective to inform the development of future testing procedures within international standards and make recommendations for optimum use of these techniques in laboratory environments. A series of use cases have been selected for evaluation of the new techniques (individually and in combination) verified against more conventional testing methods.

Research Context

The methods of laboratory testing of electrical power systems is enlarged by novel simulation techniques; i.e. real time simulation and in particular Power Hardware-in-the-Loop (PHIL) and Controller Hardware-in-the-Loop (CHIL). By means of these prior methods (PHIL and CHIL) potential added value to topics in the field of electrical systems and power electronic component research is targeted. Moreover, valuable input to the future testing procedures within international standards for electric power systems for the low/middle voltage range (IEC, UL, EN, etc. standards) is expected and recommendations for advanced testing methods in the laboratory environment are elaborated. This project is focusing on bringing together technical experts in research areas to evaluate and identify the state-of-the-art testing methods in standardized testing of electrical power systems. It implements new recommendations by means of a close collaboration among test facilities and identifies potential activities for future application of advanced testing methods within this SIRFN project.

Scope

The SIRFN technical topic Advanced Laboratory Testing Methods addresses state-of-the-art testing procedures and aims to develop new recommendations on future testing procedures of electrical power systems and its components. The target is to introduce novel simulation techniques such as real time simulation (PHIL, CHIL, etc) in order to implement and verify suitable testing procedures related to standard/research testing.

Objective/Approach

• Expand SIRFN participation for facilities focused on advanced laboratory testing methods
• Discussion and identification of use cases for implementing testing procedure relevant for future laboratory testing on electrical power systems
• Identify and attract potential users – develop potential projects for consideration by the Small and Medium-sized Business –
• Identify and implement opportunities for collaboration and information sharing among SIRFN facilities
• Implementation of the advanced testing methods in suitable test conditions with focus on PHIL and CHIL simulation and other advanced testing methods
• Interaction and discussion with SIRFN partners about the verification of the PHIL/CHIL simulation method – Elaboration and execution of common tests

Planned Deliverables

• Reports from workshops, webinars and other outreach to subject matter experts
• Recommendations on information sharing activities and topics, which may include but are not limited to round-robin testing, exchanges of information on best practices and methods, collaboration on technical papers, and sharing of research results in the priority topic areas
• Technical recommendations to standard committees based on the test results and simulation methods within this project

Contact

Mazher Syed
University of Strathclyde – Glasgow, UK

mazheruddin.syed@strath.ac.uk