HVDC with hybrid MMC-LCC converters

About the Project

These projects are open to students worldwide, but have no funding attached. Therefore, the successful applicant will be expected to fund tuition fees at the relevant level (home or international) and any applicable additional research costs. Please consider this before applying.

High Voltage Direct Current (HVDC) transmission has seen rapid development with the introduction of MMC (Modular Multilevel Converters) around 2010 [1]. It is known however that MMC technology has multiple disadvantages including high costs, high losses and vulnerability to DC-side faults.

This project will study integration of some MMC cells within HVDC valves based on classical LCC (Line Commutated Technology) HVDC converters. This topology is called hybrid cascaded HVDC and indicates most benefits of all hybrid HVDC technologies [2].

The main aim of research is to evaluate performance for various percentages of MMC cells and to understand benefits and trade offs. We will be also developing controller that is suitable for hybrid HVDC valves, and we will assess integration with host AC grids.

The project will based on simulation using professional simulation platforms like PSCAD/EMTDC or EMTP. This platform will used to firstly develop suitable detailed system model for a test system of around 1 GW. The HVDC controller will be developed next and performance evaluated. Lastly a range of applications, operating topologies, and scenarios will be developed and analysed comparatively with the traditional HVDC systems.

Decisions will be based on academic merit. The successful applicant should have, or expect to obtain, a UK Honours Degree at 2.1 (or equivalent) in Electrical or Electronics engineering.

Application Procedure:

Formal applications can be completed online: https://www.abdn.ac.uk/pgap/login.php.

You should apply for PhD in Engineering to ensure your application is passed to the correct team for processing.

Please clearly note the name of the lead supervisor and project titleon the application form. If you do not include these details, it may not be considered for the studentship.

Your application must include: A personal statement, an up-to-date copy of your academic CV, and clear copies of your educational certificates and transcripts.

Please note: you do not need to provide a research proposal with this application.

Informal enquiries can be made by contacting Professor D Jovcic at d.jovcic@abdn.ac.uk. If you require any additional assistance in submitting your application or have any queries about the application process, please don't hesitate to contact us at researchadmissions@abdn.ac.uk

Funding Notes

This is a self-funding project open to students worldwide. Our typical start dates for this programme are February or October.

Fees for this programme can be found here Finance and Funding | Study Here | The University of Aberdeen