Parallel Operation of Compact, Efficient Turbogenerators for Robust Tactical Energy Independence

The project goal is to enable the electrical outputs of multiple, very compact turbogenerators in the 10-50 kW range to be combined ("mechanically paralleled") in order to create a compact, stable, reliable, and efficient microgrid capable of providing up to 500 kW of"island"power that can be subject to rapid transients, without suffering degradation. To accomplish this, MSI has assembled a team of experienced and accomplished individuals in the fields of electrical control, high rotational speed electrical power generation, and rotordynamics and mechanical behavior, and has established a cooperative relationship with a DoD contractor/ supplier of microturbine generators. Analytical methods are being applied that consist of simplified but robust approaches in Phase I and high fidelity numerical techniques in Phase II involving comprehensive nonlinear finite element and finite difference multiphysics (i.e. simultaneous electromagnetic/stress/deflection/vibration) analysis of detailed component and fully assembled system geometries. Specialized testing will be used to validate the analysis and simulation tools. Phase II will conclude with a demonstrated rapid paralleling control system applicable to a wide range of systems, a modified set of small turbojet generators operating as a microgrid, plus rotor system design modifications and a scaling methodology applicable to larger turbojet generators.