Enhanced equivalent model of the Modular Multilevel Converter

This paper introduces an enhanced equivalent model of the half-bridge symmetrical monopole Modular Multilevel Converter (MMC) topology for the analyses of the electromagnetic transients. As compared with the existing MMC models, the proposed model reduces the simulation computational time without compromising accuracy, and contrary to the existing models, it provides accurate representation of the MMC behavior with respect to the DC-side fault. This paper also evaluates and verifies the accuracy of the proposed equivalent model under various operating conditions, i.e., start-up, DC-side pole-to-pole fault, and AC-side three-phase to ground fault. The study results indicate that: (1) in contrast to the existing equivalent models, the proposed enhanced model accurately represents the MMC under various operating conditions; (2) the implemented simplifications to the model do not adversely affect the accuracy of the simulation results; (3) a reduced-level approximated model of the MMC is also adequately accurate for protection studies.