Facilities

Power Electronics and Power System Facility

ATEC power electronics and power system research is conducted in a 8000 sq. feet research laboratory in NCSU's Centennial Campus. The research laboratory is equipped with the best power electronics and power system equipment that allows the center to conduct experimental power electronics system research related to ATEC mission. The lab is equipped with various three phase systems (208V, 480V) to allow the center to test the developed PHEV and PEV subsystems in grid tie mode. High power DC sources are available for testing motor drive units in the lab.

Motor and Motor Drive

Through ATEC Partner Advanced Energy, ATEC has a state-of-the-art motor testing laboratory, the lab is the only independent lab in the nation accepted under Underwriters Laboratory' Energy Verification Services Program and accredited by NVLAP (through the National Institute of Standards and Technology) for motor efficiency testing. This accredited lab enables us to provide the motor efficiency testing required of manufacturers by the Energy Policy and Conservation Act (EPCA) of 1992, as well as to provide additional assistance with obtaining EPCA certification and/or NVLAP accreditation to motor manufacturers worldwide.

Motor Testing Capabilities

  • From fractional up to 250 HP
  • Speeds up to 8000 RPM
  • AC motors, both single- and three-phase, as well as DC motors

Types of Motor Testing

  • Efficiency tests
    • IEEE 112B and CSA C390
    • IEE 114 and CSA C747-94
  • Performance tests
    • Locked rotor torque and current
    • Breakdown torque
    • Speed torque curves
    • Temperature rise
    • Reliability testing
    • Plug reverse
  • Drive testing
    • Drive commutation
    • Drive current regulation
    • Drive efficiency
    • Drive immunity
    • Drive emissions

Power Semiconductor Research Facility  

ATEC has extensive power device testing and characterization capability, including DC, AC, pulseand continious power testing capability. Device fabrication is supported by a shared, first class semiconductor fabrication facility housed in the ECE department. The ECE department also has a number of laboratories equipped with MOCVD and MBE machines suitable for non-silicon material research such as SiC and GaN. Additionally, the center has close relationships with Cree, Kyma and Nitronix in device and material research.

Battery Research Facility

ATEC battery research is conducted in an advanced battery research lab and a battery system research lab.

Vehicle Testing Facility

Through ATEC Partner NCCAR, ATEC also has access to one of the unique vehicle testing facilities in the nation. Designed by industry professionals for industry professionals, the facility includes:

  • 2.1 mile ride and handling course with a 0.5 mile straight, 15 feet of elevation change and 100' runout buffers. The course is 40 feet wide to allow the use of cones and variations to corner geometry.
  • Integrated vehicle dynamics area (VDA) of 670 feet by 125 feet (approximately 2 acres).
  • Private garages (28' x 32') with lifts and integrated office, storage and support areas.
  • Private engineering suites flex-designed with individual office and bullpen accommodations.
  • Customized rental and/or lease arrangements to facilitate use of all NCCAR facilities individually or in combination.