Study on rotary loop flow controller for futuristic distribution networks

With a rapid increase of environmental friendly Renewable type Dispersed Generation (RDG) like Photovoltaic, Wind Power etc., in Japan and around the world, there are many issues like voltage deviation, reverse power flow and effective management of existing distribution network that are likely to surface on their integration to the network due to the variable output of some RDG. In finding solutions to such issues, loop configuration based futuristic distribution networks are being explored. However, to realize these networks the development of a reliable, efficient and cheaper device like a loop flow controller is imperative. Hence, this paper proposes two types of Rotary Loop Flow Controllers, one is series type and the other is UPFC type. Both of them are based on the induction machine technique with no slip rings and are capable of regulating the power flow by rotating rotors. The proposed controllers are less costly, more efficient, more tolerant to over voltages/currents as compared to self-commutated type controllers. Further, UPFC type rotary loop flow controller has additional advantages like smaller capacity, ability to control reactive power than the series type of rotary loop flow controller. The proper functioning of the proposed controllers is confirmed through simulations and experiments.