Intelligent application of power electronics and controlled electrical drives by using a system-level approach provides an efficient means to improve energy efficiency and reduce the consumption of electric energy. Moreover, sustainable distributed electricity generation, such as solar and wind power, is almost completely based on power electronic applications. According to estimates provided by ECPE experts (Source: Improving Energy Efficiency – Potential of Power Electronics, Summary, European Centre for Power Electronics) the consumption of electric energy could be reduced up to 30 % with the modern technology, and approximately half of these savings could be achieved by the application of power electronics, which corresponds to annual savings of 330 TWh in the EU area. Some key technologies and means to improve energy efficiency by the utilization of power electronics are given in the following examples of research undertaken at the Unit:
Industry: Intelligent, sophisticated motor drives including permanent magnet motors, high-speed and other state-of-the-art drives, optimized motor and system designs, high-efficiency drives at partial loads, system diagnostics, auto-tuning to the process, distributed automation capabilities, and integration of drive components.
Transport: Hybrid drive trains for off-road machines, ships etc. including energy recovery, optimized system control, system diagnosis, replacement of mechanic auxiliaries with power electronics and electric motors, replacement of hydraulics with electric actuators or application of efficient electro-hydraulic positioning instead of servo valve control systems and utilizing the waste heat of the thermal processes in ships.
Electricity distribution and distributed generation: Low-voltage smart grids including for example new distribution arrangements based on DC systems or 1000 V AC systems, control of loads instead of production control, active energy storages, utilization of passenger electric cars in balancing the production and consumption in the grid and different distributed generation connected to the grid. Modern distributed generation is based for instance on constant or variable speed high-efficiency internal combustion engines integrated into new generator arrangements or solar power systems and wind energy.
The function of power electronics (PE) as an enabler in the Smart Grids concept researched by the Unit:
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1. PE enabler can produce a radical change in |
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Public distribution using low voltage DC (LVDC)
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Ship electricity distribution system using LVDC
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Using diesel-electric to hybrid working machines instead of traditional diesel power |
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2. PE enabler for better efficiency and lower emissions |
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Electric drives in the industry, in commerce and domestic applications
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Electric vehicles (fuel switch from oil to electric systems)
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Power production, e.g. wind power, solar power, micro hydro, fuel cells |
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3. PE enabler for better electricity quality |
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Active filtering
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Load shedding |
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4. PE enabler is a basic requirement for |
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