Modular Multilevel Converters Overvoltage Diagnosis and Remedial Strategy During Blocking Sequences

In this paper, the authors first highlight an existing overvoltage phenomenon that is inherent to the modular multilevel converter (MMC) topology. The latter occurs during the blocking sequences of semiconductor devices if the converter needs to be stopped due to circulating current, loss of control, or unexpected faults. An analysis based on time-domain expressions describing each operating sequence during normal and faulty blocking conditions is used to demonstrate the origin of this overvoltage. Thereafter, system behaviour is obtained when devices gating signals are withheld as well as the exact overvoltage cause. Real-time simulation, with submicrosecond time steps, and experimental results validate the overvoltage phenomena and the proposed remedial strategy to avoid uncontrolled faulty conditions.