Soft Starter Modeling for an Induction Drive Starting Study in an Industrial Plant

Induction electro motors are a significant percentage of total electrical loads in an industrial plant. Starting an induction motor as direct on line from standstill is a highly dynamic process that can damage mechanical load because of an unnecessary high starting torque. A high inrush current is another problem drawn by an induction motor during a direct on line start that can cause electrical network fluctuations. Solid state soft starter reduces these problems through controlling the ac voltage and acceleration process. This paper discloses a SIMULINK model for soft starter enabling us to study motor starting performance. As practical case, starting an induction motor driving the gypsum crusher used in MAZANDARAN cement factory has been studied and the results will be presented.