ABB’s ACS 6000 drives provide speed control for the power train test benches at CENER, Spain’s National Renewable Energy Center.
This application note describes how ABB's ACS 6000 multidrive is used in CENER's wind turbine test laboratory to control power‑train, nacelle and generator test benches. It outlines the system configuration, the role of the Active Rectifier Unit and Inverter Units, and the benefits of multidrive operation for accelerated life testing.
The ACS 6000 offers a total rated power of 36 MVA, three‑level VSI inverter technology, and high efficiency (> 98.5%). It can drive multiple induction or synchronous motors, simulate various wind conditions, and support both 50 Hz and 60 Hz testing, making it suitable for demanding wind turbine component testing.
| Inverter type | Three-level Voltage Source Inverter (VSI) |
|---|---|
| Output voltage range | 3 - 27 MW (water cooling) |
| Optional output voltage | 3.0 - 3.3 kV (optional: 2.3 kV) |
| Converter efficiency | > 98.5% (incl. all auxiliaries) |
| Total rated power | 36 MVA |
| Active Rectifier Unit (ARU) rating | 9 MVA |
| Inverter Unit (INU) rating | 9 MVA each (four units) |
One ACS 6000 multidrive controls the motors of three test benches.
The ACS 6000 multidrive has a total rated power of 36 MVA.
It uses a three‑level Voltage Source Inverter (VSI).
Typical efficiency is greater than 98.5% including all auxiliaries.