Transient overvoltage analysis in low voltage VSDs based on computational model

Induction motors controlled by Variable Speed Drives (VSDs) became a widespread practice in industrial processes. This paper presents a Transient Overvoltage problem analysis related to the interaction between power inverter, motor and cables. Based on a mathematical description of the phenomenon, a computational model was established to analyze this problem, by using the Matlab-Simulink software. Using the computational model various configurations for a low voltage installation were simulated in order to observe and analyze the behavior of the transient phenomenon on induction motors controlled by VSDs. The results obtained with the computational model suggests that it could be used as practical approach to the problem, which allows a previous coordination of the VSD with the motor in order to reduce the possible damages that transient overvoltages may cause to the drive-cable-motor circuit.