DC to AC Power Conversion by Semiconductor Converters

The rapid improvement in semiconductor power devices and in inverter circuits has given rise to an accelerated introduction of new equipment for the conversion of electrical power in military, industrial, and commercial application Increased power handling capability and improved operating characteristics have made it possible to perform many functions effectively which, until recently, were achieved only by nonstatic apparatus. The ability to convert from dc to ac efficiently and reliably has received special emphasis during the past several years. Developmental models of semiconductor inverters have been constructed, and a number of potential applications have been investigated. These new types of power conversion apparatus shoudl be of use in a wide variety of application areas, including emergency power supplies, controlled frequency sources, and frequency converters. Predictions of future applications and capabilities indicate that the semiconductor power inverter and allied apparatus should be a significant factor in the design concepts for future electrical systems.