Motor load train calculations for a land based demonstrator for marine electrical networks (DMEN)

This paper outlines the method to be adopted when applying a load to an electrical machine under test to represent the load which would be experienced by a propulsion motor in seafaring conditions. Mathematical models of the dynamic behaviour of a propeller and a vessel have been prepared which convert the speed signal from the propulsion motor into the torque it would absorb. This torque demand is passed to the load train which exerts the required torque on the propulsion motor. Simulation results show the relationship between the motor speed and propeller torque, together with the actual load torque. These simulations have been used in the design of load train equipment to be installed at a specialist test facility (known as DMEN) situated at the New and Renewable Energy Centre in Blyth in the North-East of England. DMEN will provide a flexible facility for the demonstration of items of electrical plant to be used in a marine environment and allow investigation of their operation together in an integrated system.