Hopf bifurcation in doubly fed induction generator under vector control

Abstract This paper first presents the Hopf bifurcation phenomena of a vector-controlled doubly fed induction generator (DFIG) which is a competitive choice in wind power industry. Using three-phase back-to-back pulse-width-modulated (PWM) converters, DFIG can keep stator frequency constant under variable rotor speed and provide independent control of active and reactive power output. Main results are illustrated by “exact” cycle-by-cycle simulations. The detailed mathematical model of the closed-loop system is derived and used to analyze the observed bifurcation phenomena. The loci of the Jacobian’s eigenvalues are computed and the analysis shows that the system loses stability via a Hopf bifurcation. Moreover, the boundaries of Hopf bifurcation are also given to facilitate the selection of practical parameters for guaranteeing stable operation.