The Delta-Rectifier: Analysis, Control and Operation

The three-phase Delta-Rectifier is formed by a delta-connection of single-phase pulsewidth modulation (PWM) rectifier modules and has the advantage that it can provide full rated output power in the case of a mains phase loss. In this paper the Delta-Rectifier, implemented with a standard (two-level and/or three-level) boost converter, is analyzed based on an equivalent star connection. Analysis of the Delta-Rectifier shows a redundancy in the switching states concerning the input voltage formation. Furthermore, the Delta-Rectifier has reduced current ripple in the mains phase currents if the modulation is implemented with synchronized PWM. A disadvantage of two-level Delta-Rectifier is the higher voltage stress on the switching devices; however this is mitigated when the boost converter is implemented with a three-level topology as realized for a 10.5-kW laboratory prototype. The Delta-Rectifier concept is proposed based on theoretical considerations and is verified experimentally. The influence of non-idealities on the current ripple formation in the practical realization is analyzed and a high quality mains phase current is demonstrated