Performance comparison between active and passive power filters for a static excitation system in a power generator group: A MATLAB/Simulink approach

This paper presents a comparison of the performances related to compensation and transient response of active and passive power filters when operation relies on distorted mains voltages. MATLAB/Simulink models are used. Measurements acquired with a dedicated data acquisition system provided the parameters required by the real system simulation, namely a static excitation system of a power generator group. The simulated system consists of a transformer which feeds a controlled rectifier bridge. Replacing the old auxiliary excitation generator raises two important problems: the line voltage notching due to thyristors switching and additional line current distortion. Theoretical aspects of line notching and passive and active solutions for compensation and their limitations are also discussed.