Modelling real non-linear loads for a Controller Hardware-in-the-Loop configuration to evaluate a Shunt Active Power Filter

This work shows the design and validation of a Shunt Active Power Filters (SAPF) using Controller Hardware-In-the-Loop (CHIL) Simulations by using a OP5707XG Real-Time Simulator module provided by OPAL-RT, an external OP8666 controller, a host PC and an oscilloscope for visualization. A novel methodology for the modelling of real non-linear electrical loads by making use of MATLAB/SIMULINK is presented. This allows, in conditions like real physical systems, an evaluation of the behavior of active filters before their prototyping, allowing improvements to be made in their design. For the compensation strategy, the calculation of a compensation current from the estimation of the ideal current is used. This strategy is implemented in a microcontroller system for validation with a CHIL configuration simulation. The results have demonstrated significant progress in harmonic mitigation, with the effectiveness of the SAPF in reducing the current Total Harmonic Distortion (THD) across various load types firmly established. As demonstrated in the test cases, the SAPFs significantly reduced THD from significant double-digit percentages to values well below 3 %. This confirms their significant impact on maintaining the integrity and quality of the power system.