The CAP-SG Lab uses state-of-the-art real-time simulation and reduced-scale experimental platforms to design, test and verify the integration of new technologies into various types of power-electronic-based smart grids, from small microgrids to larger power networks.
The CAP-SG Lab facility operates around the Hardware-in-the-Loop (HIL) and real-time simulator that is fully compatible with the Matlab/SimPowerSystems, PowerFactory DIgSILENT and can be utilized for a broad range of smart grid applications. In particular, the CAP-SG lab is able to carry out the following studies:
- Protection systems using different SEL Relays (SEL-751 and SEL-451) in connection with OPAL-RT OP5700
- Implement Rapid Control Prototyping (RCP)
- Simulate complex power grid and microgrid applications.
- Simulate fast electromagnetic phenomenon to the transient stability of large power systems.
- Test and optimize control and protection systems used in power grids.
- Design a wide range of control structures, cybersecurity analysis, and protection systems.
Hardware infrastructure includes six power converters that can be operated as a single distributed generation unit (DGU) or parallel connected operation, converter controller units (dSPACE and OPAL-RT), monitoring unit, and Host PCs.
The laboratory is based on multiple setups which contain power electronics converters, a grid emulator, programable DC power supplies, transformers, protection relays, PV and EV emulators, which all managed by real-time monitoring and platforms.