FOC for loss minimization of induction motor using SVM

Field oriented control (FOC) can provide an ability to rapidly and accurately control torque and speed of induction motors (IM). However, at lower than rated loads, which is a condition that many machines experience for significant portion of their service life, the efficiency is greatly reduced. This paper describes the use of supported vector machine (SVM) to optimize the efficiency of IM drive. The approach eliminates the need of accurate math model and large computation complexity in traditional loss model controller (LMC). The new efficiency optimizing controller adjusts a magnetizing current component in vector controlled drives, which ensures a minimum loss to improve efficiency of the drive system especially when driving light load. The performance of the proposed drive is demonstrated through simulation in MATLAB/SIMULINK and compared the same with traditional FOC without LMC. Results show that there is considerable loss reduction and improvement in efficiency under light load condition using the method. © Metallurgical and Mining Industry, 2015.