Five-level unidirectional T-rectifier for high speed gen-set applications

Multi-level power electronic topologies are being proposed in the recent technical literature for use in power generating units. Especially when the reduction of the power filter overall dimensions and the lowering of current and voltage waveform ripple and total harmonic distortion are considered of primary importance. This is the case of high speed gen-set units, where recent design techniques on high rotational speed permanent magnet synchronous generators have significantly reduced the inductance even for industrial voltage rated applications. The paper deals with a five-level unidirectional T-rectifier; the proposed topology is theoretically investigated, simulation results and losses analysis are achieved with reference to an IGBT phase leg module which has been manufactured on purpose.