Change a thyristor / IGBT (Insulated Gate Bipolar Transistor) - Assignment Example

Change a thyristor / IGBT (Insulated Gate Bipolar Transistor) Diesel Electronic Propulsion System (DEPS) is an instrumental system that is designed according to the principle of a power station. The system that is designed based on varied specifications and requirements is used majorly on ships. It provides the ships with pertinent incentives that foster acceleration and movement to device locations. Noticeably, the system is developed based on the principle of speed where controlled alternative current (AC) or direct current (DC) motors are involved in providing energy for operating the system (Ajioka and Ohno 1). The current generated is transmitted through a transistor like device known as the thyristor. The device facilitates the flow of current using its three terminal devices such as anode (A), cathode (K) and gate (G). The terminals controls, terminates and increase the voltage capacity of the flow of the electric signals that the electric motor generates. The motor helps in accelerating the propeller directly, thus ensuring there is no noise pollution from the system. The diesel-electric (DE) system usage of in the ship engine system is definitely gaining momentum in various locations worldwide. Its usage globally has been received with positive reaction for its immense benefits that include low fuel consumption, a better hydrodynamic efficiency of the propellers, and high reliability levels due to its effective engine functionality among others. Its efficiency, reduced life cycle cost, improved maneuverability, low propulsion noise, reduced vibrations quality, and capacity to offering streamlined and timely solutions to ship stakeholders also explains its increasing adoption (Ajioka and Ohno 1). This report provides credible information pertaining to the system based on diverse aspects. The aspects include its functionality, how its work, how it is tested, the needed test equipment’s, how they are changed among other aspects. The system has various or made up of diverse electronic components that are specific to the type of the machine it is meant for. The principal components include Genset diesel engines and alternators, frequency converters/variable speed drives, thyristors, synchro converter and electric propulsion motors (Woodyard 157). Other parts of the system that fuels its effectiveness are gearboxes that are optional or included depending on the e-propulsion motor speed rate, supply transformers, and propellers or propulsors. Notably, the system offers best speed enhancing capability that is necessary for ship movement hence the need for its integration and adoption. The system works systematically from the preamble stages where the diesel engine is refilled with fuel. The diesel engine that is connected to the generator directly supplies the needed electric energy to the electric propulsion motors. The supply of the electric signals is facilitated by the thyristors. They allow the current to flow from terminal Gate (G) from ANODE (A) to Cathode (C). The device controls, the current and voltage level of the electric signals that flows into the system for effective functionality. The transmission of the current takes place after the signals have been converted into analog signals through a synchro converter device. After the electric supply is achieved using the thyristor terminals, the gearbox is operated to accelerate the system as it function (Woodyard 159). The gearbox is used to control and manage the speed of the drives and propellers to facilitate efficiency. In a number of efficient applications, the converted electrical power may be kept in rechargeable batteries, in which case these ships and other machines such as vehicles and trains. The converters are fed frequently with LClsyncho-converters depending on the prevailing arrangement of the propulsion system. This can also be done using the PWM converters that hold the capacity of reducing vibration levels and noise. The reduction of noise provides a conducive environment for the usage of the system in most cruise ships. In its functionality, the propulsion drives are conceived systematically as a subordinated consumer leading to the automatic reduction of the propulsion output by the thyristor. This leads to an automatic reduction of the consumption of momentary power availably for the supply of diesel to various generator sets. When in operation, the consumption rate of the propulsion drives is normally reduced to facilitate stable operations. At this stage, the current flowing reaches the nominal value of the alternators, and the active power of the diesel set of alternators surpasses the nominal value. For high-efficiency, functionality test has to be conducted on Diesel electronic propulsion system. This is done to establish the system’s functionality and conditions of work including risks (Molland 390). The testing process range extends from inverters for accurately driving efficient dynamometers, through a battery simulator for the accurate simulation of HV voltages, up to a power-saving package solution consisting of a DC source, inverter, and electric motor in the system. The testing is done by supplying diesel generator set with diesel and powering it to facilitate the automatic reduction of propulsion output. The testing of the output and flow of the electric signals using thyristor device follow this. The device is used to help in ascertaining the effectiveness with which the current can flow within the system from one terminal to another. The functionality of the electric propulsion motor is also done using the synchro convertors. The converters tests the ability of the device to generate electric signals and accept the converted analog signals converted. This is to guarantee the flow of current to various parts of the system for quality functionality. The principal testing equipment for the system includes the endurance test facility, thruster, micro thrust, CE marking, GO/RT 3279 among other tools. The Insulated Gate Bipolar Transistor (IGBT) is one of the devices used in the system. It is a minority-carrier device. It has very high input impedance as well as has a capability of carrying very large bipolar current. Electrostatic discharge affects the life span of electronics therefore before changing a faulty thyrositor this factor should be considered. Thyristor and synchro converter are vital devices that aid the functionality of the Electric propulsion device. They facilitate flow and regulation of current to and from the propulsion motor that is essential for favorable operations. In particular, a thyristor is a small device that looks like a transistor. It controls the flow of the electric current generated into the GATE (G). The control allows more current to flow from ANODE A direct to the CATHODE (C) of the system. This allows for consistent operation of the machine without serious defects. Clearly, a thyristor is a three layer device with effective terminals that are formed through systematic alteration of n-type and p-type semiconductor materials. The terminals of the device that facilitates its operations are the anode (A), cathode (K) and gate (G) where gate G is the control center (Molland 399). The terminal Gas noted ably controls the control of the current that flows through the device. However, the Anode and cathode are the designated terminals for power. Ideally, the thyristor is used to control power output by switching o and off the load circuit. This is done by powering an electric circuit periodically in intervals that are preset. Thyristor holds the capacity of handling large amount of current and can withstand large voltages. This makes it suitable for use in running ships and others machines. On the other hand, synchro-converter is a vital device that helps in converting digital signals generated to superior analog signals that are suitable for use by a synchro converter device (Denton 45). The device helps the motor to convert data from digital to analog under reasonable circumstances as may be necessary. It also helps in converting current that is transmitted by the thyristor to voltage. This enables the system to process preliminary information contained in a digital data thereby transmitting it synchro digital data that include an S2 signal and S2 signal. The signals are characterized by [V Sin ((acute over (w)) t) Sin (0+240)]. In the modern world, electronic power is used to drive power system widely on sea application such as diesel-electric propulsions, (HVAC) ventilators, winches, tensioners, and pumps. The speed of the electrical motors can be decreased when the weight load is less than the maximum weight required (Mi, Abul and David 56). Therefore, the rate of energy consumption will be minimum. The hybrid of all drive systems on a ship introduces a number of technological challenges to deal with, such as harmonic distortion, dynamic responses, and regenerative energy. Imtech Marine uses sophisticated technological simulation facilities to ensure an overall design that complies with class requirements The energy-generating unit is made up of a prime mover, and a generator powered by electricity that is driven by the prime mover. For efficiency and reliability for a better distribution of power, a number of power generating component (in most cases the number of generating units is even) exist (Mi, Abul and David 62). Generally, this power generating unit installation is placed in the centre of the maritime at both boards symmetrically with respect of the middle longitudinal axis to distribute weight uniformly and proportionally. Here below are the diagrams showing the configuration of the system and all its parts. There are challenges that are associated with system operation that needs the operator to be very cautious when dealing with the electric devices system. It is a fundamental requirement that every operator involved in the maneuver and maintenance of devices are aware and must be prepared for the risks of these systems that may occur during the operation (Payne 49). The major risks that the use of the system may expose individuals to include loss of life, body injuries, fire outbreak, electrification of users, and destruction of the machines. The cause of accidents may be due to a fault in the electric system such as omission, wrong action, lack of control and wrong control (Mi, Abul and David 76). Therefore, as noted by Senauth (3), it is necessary to encourage safety precaution since electric systems have high voltage and produce harmful consequences when not handle carefully. The diesel-electric propulsion engine engineers must be prepared to manage system failure because they can pose a danger to the direction of the ship in the sea. Diesel-electric propulsion must comply with the regulation established by classification societies in relation with system failure. Personal protective equipment PPe are essential tools that help in boosting safety in a working environment. The testing tools foster awareness creation pertaining to a system’s functionality, possible default and the general condition thereby prompting mitigation (Robert 73). The tools include helmet testing tool, hearing protection testing tool, glove, special clothing, outwear testing, CE marking, EN 388, EN 471 among others. On the other hand, the working permits necessary for the system include business operation permit, local government tax permit, permit to use the machine in providing services, health and safety permit and environmental permit’ Clearly, diesel electric propulsion users must execute comprehensive risk assessment of the system to establish its dangers and areas of weakness. They must establish the type of danger it presents, how the degree of risks, when it is in use, can be increased, the detrimental nature of the risks and identification of the main areas when the risks occurs (Payne 49). For instance, the users should establish the risk that various components of the system such as thyristors present. This type of information is vital in developing effective and relevant safety measures. The information will give a greenlight that facilitate preparation of any eventuality and designing of precautionary measures since you cannot protect yourself from a danger you do not understand. The users should also study the system’s manual and understand how it works properly to avert possible cases of breakdowns (Robert 23). Subsequently, the system should be used in adherence to the standards of operations and the laws that inform its usage. It should be used in accordance with stipulated guidelines as provided under ISM, MARPOL, and SOLAS regulations. The regulations spell the ethical standards that should be observed by the users and the procurement procedures. The procedures are vital to avert possible cases of acquiring a substandard product and poor utilization of the machine especially in executing other subsidiary works that may expose users to a grave danger. Indeed, any project must be undertaken in accordance to the standard regulations and management requirements if quality results ae expected (Senauth 4). Regulations and management best practices are key determinants of success in the usage of the diesel electric propulsion system and users should not ignore the fact. In particular, before procuring the system, it is incumbent upon the buyer to establish if it meets all the usability regulations that include electric safety regulations, maintenance requirements, flag state reporting, and company regulations. For instance, the system should match the standard requirements of the type of a machine set by accompany. The system should not below the standard set that normally appertains to performance capacity, voltage, power consumption rate, the level of damage during default and the amount of capital budgeted. The difference should be an allowable amount of (plus or minus 1%) as any amount beyond that should not be considered. Regulations about its maintenance and installation services must also be considered (Evolving Propulsion Options for Diesel Electric Ships (EPODES) 5). This appertains to conditions of after sale service from the seller, availability of warranty and the period, efficiency in terms of functionality and availability of spare parts. Reporting system incase danger occurs remains another vital regulation that electronic system buyers should not overlook. Similarly, the efficiency of the system in facilitating the execution of the project intended is a fundamental aspect of consideration. The system should provide timely services, enables proper tracking of information, recording of data and user friendly to the personnel. The aspects are vital in enhancing the effectiveness and efficiency of the system. References Denton T: Automobile Electrical and Electronic Systems. Victoria, B.C: Trafford, 2000. Print Molland, A. F. The Maritime Engineering Reference Book: A Guide to Ship Design, Construction and Operation. Amsterdam: Butterworth-Heinemann, 2008. Internet resource. Payne, J. C. The Motorboat Electrical and Electronics Manual. Dobbs Ferry, NY: Sheridan House, 2002. Print. Woodyard, D F. Pounder's Marine Diesel Engines and Gas Turbines. Amsterdam: Elsevier/Butterworth-Heinemann, 2009. Internet resource. Yoshifumi A. & Kiyoshi O: Electric Systems for Ships. Hitachi Review Vol. 62 (2013), No, 3. 231-324. Read More