METHODOLOGICAL ASPECTS OF INDUCTION MOTOR MODELING UNDER POOR POWER QUALITY CONDITIONS

Abstract

The article explores methodological approaches to modeling the operation of a squirrel-cage induction motor under conditions of poor power quality. The relevance of the research is driven by the significant share of electric motors in global energy consumption—up to 46%—and the detrimental impact of power quality deviations on the efficiency, reliability, and service life of electromechanical systems. A comprehensive analysis of the current state of mathematical modeling of induction motors is presented, with emphasis on the limitations of most existing models, which typically assume symmetrical and sinusoidal supply voltage, thus failing to reflect real-world industrial conditions.

Various classes of mathematical models are examined, particularly those that account for certain aspects of power quality such as voltage asymmetry, harmonic distortions, and frequency instability. It is shown that these models, although effective in specific cases, cannot provide a holistic evaluation of the motor’s energy performance. The article formulates the requirements for a unified simulation model of an induction motor that can simultaneously account for all major power quality indicators (PQIs), both in steady-state and transient operating conditions.

The proposed model is based on the integration of computational blocks from existing analogs, enabling consideration of non-sinusoidal and unbalanced supply voltages. It allows the calculation of instantaneous stator and rotor currents, core and copper losses, electromagnetic torque, efficiency, and power factor. The model is expandable to incorporate harmonic filtering and variable frequency conditions, with the possibility of parameter refinement through experimental identification.

It is concluded that no single universal model currently exists to evaluate the energy performance of induction motors under degraded power supply conditions. Therefore, the creation of a new-generation simulation model is proposed as a viable and necessary solution for the comprehensive analysis of motor operation in realistic power networks.

Keywords: induction motor, mathematical modeling, power quality, voltage asymmetry, non-sinusoidal voltage, energy efficiency, simulation model, electromechanical converter.