Power hardware-in-the-loop

POWER

HARDWARE-IN-THE -LOOP

A Revolution in the Industry

Power Hardware-in-the-Loop (PHIL) simulation represents a natural extension of HIL, in which the real-time simulation environment is capable of exchanging not just low-voltage, low-current signals, but the power required by the Devices under Test (DUT). To bridge this gap, power amplifiers are inserted between DUTs rated for higher power and the low-level simulator I/Os, all while providing the necessary feedback to properly close the loop. Power amplifiers are selected for user applications based on their closed-loop performance and ability to generate and absorb power.

While HIL and closed-loop testing provide many benefits, PHIL also allows the simulation of higher power flows between DUTs, as well as with the simulated electric circuit running on the simulator. This capability enables engineers to test multiple systems, including power converters, generators, motor and PV load, while also benefiting from high-fidelity simulation that provides greater flexibility and safety than typical analog benches and dynamometers.

The Role of PHIL for the Modernization of Power Systems

Watch OPAL-RT’s users discussing about the challenges and benefits of PHIL, and how this technology is being widely adopted by modern companies needing to test and validate power system and power electronics components with higher power flow between the Devices under Test (DUT).













PHIL Process

Power hardware in the loop - PHIL process

Discover Which Are The Key Factors to Consider Before Choosing Your PHIL Amplifier

Power Hardware-in-the-loop (PHIL) enables engineers to test various types of power equipment—including power converters, generators and motors—while benefiting from high-fidelity simulation that provides greater flexibility in applying tests that are not practical in a non-destructive manner on analog testbeds or on a real system.

In this white paper, learn the key considerations when selecting power amplifiers for your Power Hardware-in-the-loop (PHIL) Testbed.











PHIL: Take it a Step Further

Discover in this webinar how Power Hardware-in-the-loop (PHIL) simulation is revolutionizing the HIL industry, taking testing and validation of power system and power electronics controls, protection and proof of concept to the next level. Learn about the benefits and challenges of PHIL simulation, its applications, case studies and much more.

Satisfy the Most Demanding Requirements in Power Applications

Performance

High-fidelity real-time power electronics and power system plant models, when combined with a quality amplifier, match the performance of a dynamometer or analog bench, providing greater confidence that the system will perform to expectations.

OPAL-RT simulators include standard or custom amplifiers to meet the most stringent requirements in power applications: high accuracy, low distortion, high bandwidth, low phase lag, etc.

Versatile

PHIL enables developers to test a wider range of characteristics than analog benches or dynamometers, with far less maintenance and setup time. This makes it possible to further test hardware robustness over a wider variation of parameters, characteristics and faults.

Safety

PHIL simulation enables engineers to execute otherwise impractical or risky tests. The process also enables inverter thermal testing without actual motors or complex systems.

Simply put, PHIL testing enhances operation safety and helps develop safer products and systems.

Microgrid PHIL Test Bench

Universities around the world are rapidly adopting PHIL technology to their research laboratories, providing a major advantage to their students and researchers. However, the complexity, time, and high costs for them to create their own test bench remains a challenge.

Backed by over 20 years of experience working with the industry and top research laboratories in the world, OPAL-RT has developed the most complete Microgrid PHIL Test Bench. The test bench is ideal for any type of microgrid application research, by allowing users to have hands-on experience by testing real components in various operating conditions.

Power hardware in the loop test bench OP1420

Our Partners

For more than forty years, AMETEK has supplied precision programmable power products and systems to diverse industries for test and measurement needs.


Leading manufacturer of analog linear transistor amplifiers, AC/DC current and voltage power supplies for industrial measurement and testing systems.


Technology leader providing flexible Digital Power Amplifier Systems that can be used as source or sink with a bandwidth from DC to 5kHz (harmonics up to 15kHz) @ 1.2MVA MAX.


A leader in electronic equipment design, energy conversion and power electronic instrumentation.

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Triphase amplifiers provide a means to integrate high-power equipment with OPAL-RT real-time simulators in a closed loop.


Chroma provides programmable and regenerative power test instruments and systems for a wide range of applications worldwide.


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