Analysis of a transformer-less, multi-level DC-DC converter for HVDC operation

George G. Karady, Srinivasan Devarajan

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contribution

Abstract

HVDC systems require DC step up and DC step down units. The traditional approach is the application of twelve-pulse thyristor bridges with transformers. The developments of fast switching IGBT devices permit the development of transformer-less, multi-level converters. A multi-level circuit was suggested by Limpaecher. This paper presents a detailed simulation of the proposed circuit together with the analysis of its performance. The converter consists of a set of capacitors, air core inductors and solid state switches arranged in a ladder network. In the step-up mode, the closing of solid state switches resonantly charges the capacitors in parallel through an air-cored inductor. Then solid state switches connect the capacitors in series and discharge them through an air-core inductor to the load. In the step-down mode the capacitors are charged in series and discharged in parallel. The circuit has three modes of operation in each cycle: charge, inversion, and discharge. The circuit operation is analyzed in each mode using SPICE simulations. The selection of the components is discussed and output voltage regulation is analyzed. The results show that the proposed circuit promises significant reduction of losses, because of the zero current switching. The investment cost is reduced because of the elimination of transformers.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Title of host publicationProceedings of the American Power Conference
Editors Anon
PublisherIllinois Inst of Technology
Pages104-109
Number of pages6
Volume1
StatePublished - 1998

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Nuclear Energy and Engineering
  • Electrical and Electronic Engineering
  • Mechanical Engineering

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