PhD position on DC voltage control of multi-terminal bipolar HVDC systems under unbalanced conditions

Within the Electrical Energy Systems and Applications (Electa) division at the Department of Electrical Engineering (ESAT) of KU Leuven and EnergyVille, the research team led by prof. Jef Beerten focuses on the combined modelling and control of power electronic converters and power systems, with a focus on HVDC systems. The team is part of a larger group that conducts leading HVDC research at Electa. Our research projects contribute directly to the engineering of the future electricity grid in close collaboration with industry. Within the team, we have a PhD position available on the topic of DC voltage control and its impact on HVDC interaction studies. The PhD project is in close collaboration with Elia, the Belgian system operator.
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Project

Bipolar HVDC systems can operate under unbalanced conditions after the outage of a converter or cable. The HVDC system is in this case a combination of bipolar and monopolar configuration, which is challenging for the DC voltage control. This PhD focuses on the development of a DC voltage control strategy for multi-terminal bipolar HVDC systems suitable for different combinations of operating modes, i.e. full bipole, rigid bipole and asymmetric monopole. The DC voltage control is designed to provide sufficient system damping, avoiding adverse interactions between converters and additional control loops. The impact of the DC voltage control on the DC-side impedance matrix of the bipolar converter station and the small-signal stability of the HVDC system is assessed, considering the influence of the AC grid through cross-impedances and the effect of possible pole coupling under unbalanced condition. In addition, the DC voltage needs to be maintained in case of large-signal disturbances, e.g. faults or loss of generation. The developed DC voltage control strategy is possibly validated in the lab for a realistic case study, e.g. Princess Elisabeth Island. 

Candidates interested in a PhD on this topic should have a good understanding of modelling and control of power electronics converters for power system applications. A strong interest and affinity in power system dynamics and simulations is essential. A keen interest, or background in control systems and system interactions is crucial.

Profile

As the ideal candidate: 

• You have a Master of Science degree in electrical engineering, computer science, or numerical mathematics, preferably from a reputable institute from a country within the European Economic Area
• You have obtained excellent study results.
• You are communicative and motivated to work in a team with other experts studying different aspects of HVDC grids and power systems.
• You are willing to occasionally travel in the framework of the PhD project.
• You can communicate fluently in English, both orally and in writing. Knowledge of the Dutch language is a plus.

Offer

We offer an exciting job in one of the leading research institutes in the field. HVDC technology is receiving significant attention from both academia and industry. This project allows you to work in an inspiring environment within a team of enthusiastic colleagues on a highly timely research topic. Your working location will be in EnergyVille in Genk, Belgium.

https://www.energyville.be/en/hvdc-research

Interested?

For more information please contact Prof. dr. Jef Beerten, tel.: +32 16 32 10 39, mail: jef.beerten@kuleuven.be

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