Abstract

The efficiency of induction motor drives operating under variable conditions can be improved by predicting the optimum flux that minimizes the losses. In this study, a Loss-Minimization Controller (LMC) and a Search Controller (SC) are combined. The output from the controllers would drive the field oriented control inverter in order to achieve the optimum flux in the motor that minimizes the losses. For this purpose, a mathematical model for calculating the total power losses as a function of magnetic flux and a factor to obtain feedback as a function of optimum flux were discussed. An LMC-SC vector-controlled induction motor drive system was modelled, simulated and tested. The results have validated the effectiveness of this system in minimizing the motor operating losses, especially at light and medium loads. The proposed controller can be implemented in adjustable speed induction motor drive systems with variable loads, operating below rated speed.

Keywords:

Flux vector control, flux, induction motor, loss minimization controller, optimization, search controller, variable speed drive,

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Competing interests

The authors have no competing interests.

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