High Voltage Direct Current (HVDC) technology has been recognized as a solution for long-distance bulk-power transmission, asynchronous AC systems interconnections, interconnection of different regions requiring submarine and underground cables, and transmission of offshore wind power to shore.
Interconnecting existing HVDC links and developing DC grids are becoming very attractive when multiple HVDC systems are being installed in close proximity. This enhances the operating flexibility and power security of the interconnected DC system compared with the multiple point-to-point HVDC links and reduces the total power loss and total transmission assets. The market participation and power flow interchange between different TSOs (transmission system operators) also become more flexible.
DC/DC converters are the vital components to interconnect the existing point-to-point HVDC systems with different voltage levels and different control strategies. The converters can be taught as DC-transformers which the voltage stepping up and/or down capability. The can also provide other features such as power flow control and DC fault isolation which are very important in DC grids.
There are two main types of DC/DC converters for HVDC applications; isolated and non-isolated. Each of them has its own advantages and disadvantages compared to the other one. The non-isolated DC/DC converters can be usually developed with lower cost and smaller footstep (very appealing in offshore platforms) but at the cost of no galvanic isolation.
This PhD project includes:
- Literature survey on different types of DC/DC converters and especially on non-isolated DC/DC converters
- Selection of one type of non-isolated DC/DC converter based on some performance indices (such as cost, size, isolation, reliability, complexity and application)
- Design of the DC/DC converter (Electrical and Control design)
- Modelling and simulation of the converter
Selection will be made on the basis of academic merit. The successful candidate should have, or expect to obtain, a UK Honours degree at 2.1 or above (or equivalent) in Engineering.
Essential knowledge - of power system especially high voltage direct current (HVDC) and HVDC converters, power system simulation tools, especially PSCAD and ability to do mathematical analysis and modelling in the simulation tools.
APPLICATION PROCEDURE:
Formal applications can be completed online: https://www.abdn.ac.uk/pgap/login.php
• Apply for Degree of Doctor of Philosophy in Engineering
• State name of the lead supervisor as the Name of Proposed Supervisor
• State ‘Self-funded’ as Intended Source of Funding
• State the exact project title on the application form
When applying please ensure all required documents are attached:
• All degree certificates and transcripts (Undergraduate AND Postgraduate MSc-officially translated into English where necessary)
• Detailed CV, Personal Statement/Motivation Letter and Intended source of funding
Informal inquiries can be made to Dr A Jamshidi Far ([Email Address Removed]) with a copy of your curriculum vitae and cover letter. All general enquiries should be directed to the Postgraduate Research School ([Email Address Removed])
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