A high current multi-cell buck converter using intercell transformers: Modeling and design of a 1200 amps, 12-phase prototype

This paper deals with the design of high power density DC/DC buck converter for portable bench space charge measurements in full-size HVDC cables. The design of a coupled interleaved buck converter used for delivering the necessary regulated high transient current (up to 1200A during one or two seconds) is presented. The structure is original regarding its compacity and the use of an innovative, small and compact structure of magnetic coupling called InterCell transformer (ICT) which guarantees an excellent filtering of the output current. Experimental results are included in order to confirm the effectiveness and the advantages of the proposed structure. Thermal step current measurements are included in order to validate the application principle on aged power cable loops.