The High-Frequency Base Converter-A New Approach to Static High-Power Conversion

A new approach to high-power conversion in which two naturally commutated converters (cycloconverters) are used in tandem, each with its input connected to a (passive) high-frequency (HF) source (``base´´) is presented. The arrangement approximates an ideal converter; its ``input´´ and ``output´´ frequency can be equal or different, and the power factor at both external terminals can be maintained at unity or any other value. Potential utility applications in which the HF base converter functions as an asynchronous intertie between two ac power systems and as a tie between a dc transmission line and a weak ac system are discussed, and technical and economic comparisons with conventional approaches are given.