Modular power converters for industrial energy applications

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Modular power converters consisting of multiple modules/cells have found increasing popularity in high-power industries. These topologies offer a number of benefits in the high-power range such as flexible and scalable structure, redundant operation capability, high power quality and ease-of-manufacture. On the other hand, recent advancement in reverse-blocking device technology has opened up tremendous opportunities on developing next-generation current-source and matrix converters. In light of this latest trend, the proposed research program aims to develop innovative modular current-source and matrix converter technologies for alternative energy conversion and industrial drives. In particular, the research will focus on the following three areas: 1) Modular current-source converters for integrating multi-megawatt wind power generators. Highly efficient and reliable novel solutions using new current-source modules will be developed for large wind turbines at both low-voltage and medium-voltage levels. 2) Medium-voltage high-speed drives using paralleled current-source converter modules. Advanced switching and control strategies will be investigated to provide high-performance high-frequency operation. 3) Modular matrix converters for medium-voltage drives. Exploration on optimal modulation and control will provide attractive solutions to improve drive performance and power quality. The novelty of the proposed research lies in the new converter configurations as well as their modulation and control which will bring significant enhancements to cost, efficiency, reliability and performance. The outcome of the research is expected to generate new academic knowledge and practical solutions, which will be transferred to the industry to benefit the Canadian economy.