B4 topology options for operating three phase induction machines on single phase grids

Three-phase (3Phi) induction machines are known for their advantages over the single-phase (1Phi) version regarding efficiency, and torque pulsations. Variable and line frequency operation of 3Phi; induction machines on 1Phi; lines, as opposed to using 1Phi machines, has been plagued by the cost issues concerning the number of semiconductor drivers and the amount of capacitance in the DC link. Traditionally, six-switch PWM methods are used to drive 3Phi machines. In this paper four-switch PWM methods (B4) featuring new interconnections are proposed that provide variable and line frequency operation of 3Phi machines on 1Phi grids. For static, i.e. diode rectification, a voltage doubler circuit is often used instead of a full wave rectifier, since it allows for twice the DC link voltage, which is necessary for operating the induction machine at up to rated voltage when utilizing the B6 topology. Current utilization of B4 topologies only allow for driving induction machines at about half of their rated voltage when using static rectification. In this paper, theoretical, simulated, and experimental results are presented that incorporate effects of finite supply capacitance utilizing a static voltage doubler circuit for alternative utilizations of the B4 under line frequency excitation that allow for operation at full-rated voltage