This laboratory supports all activities associated with ‘at-scale’ testing of microgrid assets (using the USRB Microgrid), Controller Hardware-in-the-Loop (CHiL) emulations of networked microgrid systems, and simulation and design tool development for shipboard systems.
The Microgrid, CHiL and Energy Storage Laboratory is a 1800 ft² facility including the following capabilities:
- Static-switch connection to the USRB 480V distribution grid
- Power panels (with E-Stop) accommodating connections to and monitoring of USRB microgrid assets (installed outside of the building)
- NI CRIO-based controls and monitoring for power panels and switches with LabView Interfaces
- 3-phase 480Vac, 400A bus
- 3-phase 480Vac, 200A bus
- 50kWh, 25kW Zn-Brom. energy storage with grid tie inverter
- 114 kW Li-ion battery with grid tie inverter
- 15F, 360V Ultra-Capacitor
- 2 workbenches
- 5 student workstations
The Multi-Platform CHiL (Controller-Hardware-In-The-Loop) provides real-time emulations of utility grids, shipboard electrical systems and microgrids for digital twin development. It includes the following capabilities:
- LabView
- S3D
- CRIO-Based Microgrid Controls
- PXIe Chassis with Kintex & Kintex UltraScale FPGA Plug-Ins
- 2x Typhoon HIL604
- Typhoon HIL603
- OPAL-RT
- Monitoring & Control of NG Generators, BESS, Solar PV, Wind
The microgrid distribution system, including microgrid buses, power panels, static switch and e-stop system, is shown below.
Microgrid, CHiL and Energy Storage Laboratory Distribution System
Microgrid Static Switch
A functional diagram of the CHiL is depicted below.
Description of CHiL components and functionality