Single-phase grid connected axial flux permanent magnet generator system with reactive power compensation functionality

This paper presents a single-phase grid connected system with reactive power compensation functionality for an axial flux permanent magnet (AFPM) generator. The proposed system offers bi-function namely not only transfers energy generated by any kind of mechanical power sources via an AFPM but also feeds reactive power to compensate the reactive power drawn by loads. The proposed system includes 3 main parts: the 5-Phase laboratory made AC AFPM, full bridge rectifier and an IGBT full bridge inverter. A current control technique based on fixed hysteresis band is used. All control algorithms are implemented on dsPIC30F4011 Digital Signal Controller (DSC). The proposed system is able to transfer energy supplied from the proposed AFPM to a 1-phase, 50 Hz, 220 V mains supply. Apart from the power transfer, the proposed system also provides reactive power compensation for resistive-inductive load to improve power factor of the grid to nearly unity. The system performance is investigated which appears satisfactory.