Performance evaluation of a switched reluctance starter/generator system under constant power and capacitive type loads

The US Army´s objectives for future multipurpose vehicles calls for using electric power for vehicle functions currently driven by hydraulic, pneumatic or mechanical means. The use of electrical power and power electronics components and systems are expected to enhance reliability, fault tolerance, power density, and performance. An electrical starter/generator system is one of the key technologies to make the concept of a more electric vehicle a reality. This paper focuses on the performance evaluation of a 30 kW, 270 V DC, 52000 r.p.m. switched reluctance starter/generator system for a 1400 HP gas turbine engine under constant power and capacitive type loads. In contrast, most of the literature on switched reluctance systems deals with motor drives or starter/generator systems operating with constant resistive type loads. The system model is discussed and simulation and test results are compared to show model accuracy. The test data is presented to show that the system meets the power quality requirements in steady state, as well as load switching modes of operation