Abstract:In wind power systems, the converter of high power grid connected wind turbines is a core energy conversion device. Due to the random and highly fluctuating power output of wind turbines, the power module often runs overloaded, suffering severe thermal stress and becoming a high failure rate component. This study uses finite element analysis (FEA) to explore how overload current affects the power module’s fatigue life. It also establishes a mathematical model linking overload current and module fatigue life. Firstly, FEA-based electro-thermal coupling analysis clarifies the dynamic temperature changes of aluminum bond wires under overload current. Secondly, incorporating these results as load conditions, further FEA-based thermo-mechanical coupling analysis is done. This analyzes the specific impacts of thermal stress from high temperatures and temperature fluctuations on aluminum bond wire material properties, revealing the microscopic mechanisms of material characteristic changes. Finally, using the nominal stress approach for fatigue life analysis of the power module and considering relevant factors, a precise mathematical model linking overload current and module fatigue life is built. This establishes a quantitative relationship between them. The research offers theoretical data for optimizing power module design in wind turbine converters and serves as a reference for converter maintenance scheduling. It’s highly significant for enhancing wind turbine reliability and operational efficiency.
邓清飞, 钱飞翔, 李冬, 李今宋. 风电机组变流器功率模块疲劳老化特性分析[J]. 电气技术, 2026, 27(6): 23-29.
DENG Qingfei, QIAN Feixiang, LI Dong, LI Jinsong. Comprehensive analysis of fatigue aging characteristics in the converter power module of wind turbines. Electrical Engineering, 2026, 27(6): 23-29.