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5 pages, 171 KiB

Open AccessEditorial

Special Issue “Advanced DC-DC Power Converters and Switching Converters”

by Salvatore Musumeci

Energies 2022, 15(4), 1565; https://doi.org/10.3390/en15041565 - 20 Feb 2022

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 1955

Abstract

Nowadays, power electronics is an enabling technology in the energy conversion development scenario [...] Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced DC-DC Power Converters and Switching Converters)

Research

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17 pages, 8509 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Tool for Evaluating the Performance of SiC-Based Bidirectional Battery Chargers for Automotive Applications

by Giuseppe Aiello, Mario Cacciato, Francesco Gennaro, Santi Agatino Rizzo, Giuseppe Scarcella and Giacomo Scelba

Energies 2020, 13(24), 6733; https://doi.org/10.3390/en13246733 - 20 Dec 2020

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2424

Abstract

In this paper, a procedure to simulate an electronic power converter for control design and optimization purposes is proposed. For the addressed application, the converter uses SiC-MOSFET technology in bidirectional battery chargers composed of two power stages. The first stage consists of a [...] Read more.

In this paper, a procedure to simulate an electronic power converter for control design and optimization purposes is proposed. For the addressed application, the converter uses SiC-MOSFET technology in bidirectional battery chargers composed of two power stages. The first stage consists of a single-phase AC/DC power factor correction synchronous rectifier. The following stage is a DC/DC dual active bridge. The converter has been modulated using a phase-shift technique which is able to manage bidirectional power flows. The development of a model-based simulation approach is essential to simplify the different design phases. Moreover, it is also important for the final validation of the control algorithm. A suitable tool consisting of a system-level simulation environment has been adopted. The tool is based on a block diagram design method accomplished using the Simulink toolbox in MATLAB^™. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced DC-DC Power Converters and Switching Converters)

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13 pages, 7916 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Power Scalable Bi-Directional DC-DC Conversion Solutions for Future Aircraft Applications

by Antonio Lamantia, Francesco Giuliani and Alberto Castellazzi

Energies 2020, 13(20), 5470; https://doi.org/10.3390/en13205470 - 19 Oct 2020

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2598

Abstract

With the introduction of the more electric aircraft, there is growing emphasis on improving overall efficiency and thus gravimetric and volumetric power density, as well as smart functionalities and safety of an aircraft. In future on-board power distribution networks, so-called high voltage DC [...] Read more.

With the introduction of the more electric aircraft, there is growing emphasis on improving overall efficiency and thus gravimetric and volumetric power density, as well as smart functionalities and safety of an aircraft. In future on-board power distribution networks, so-called high voltage DC (HVDC, typically +/−270VDC) supplies will be introduced to facilitate distribution and reduce the associated mass and volume, including harness. Future aircraft power distribution systems will also very likely include energy storage devices (probably, batteries) for emergency back up and engine starting. Correspondingly, novel DC-DC conversion solutions are required, which can interface the traditional low voltage (28 V) DC bus with the new 270 V one. Such solutions presently need to cater for a significant degree of flexibility in their power ratings, power transfer capability and number of inputs/outputs. Specifically, multi-port power-scalable bi-directional converters are required. This paper presents the design and testing of such a solution, addressing the use of leading edge wide-band-gap (WBG) solid state technology, especially silicon carbide (SiC), for use as high-frequency switches within the bi-directional converter on the high-voltage side. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced DC-DC Power Converters and Switching Converters)

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18 pages, 7715 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Computationally Efficient Modeling of DC-DC Converters for PV Applications

by Fabio Corti, Antonino Laudani, Gabriele Maria Lozito and Alberto Reatti

Energies 2020, 13(19), 5100; https://doi.org/10.3390/en13195100 - 30 Sep 2020

Cited by 32 | Viewed by 3007

Abstract

In this work, a computationally efficient approach for the simulation of a DC-DC converter connected to a photovoltaic device is proposed. The methodology is based on a combination of a highly efficient formulation of the one-diode model for photovoltaic (PV) devices and a [...] Read more.

In this work, a computationally efficient approach for the simulation of a DC-DC converter connected to a photovoltaic device is proposed. The methodology is based on a combination of a highly efficient formulation of the one-diode model for photovoltaic (PV) devices and a state-space formulation of the converter as well as an accurate steady-state detection methodology. The approach was experimentally validated to assess its accuracy. The model is accurate both in its dynamic response (tested in full linearity and with a simulated PV device as the input) and in its steady-state response (tested with an outdoor experimental measurement setup). The model detects automatically the reaching of a steady state, thus resulting in lowered computational costs. The approach is presented as a mathematical model that can be efficiently included in a large simulation system or statistical analysis. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced DC-DC Power Converters and Switching Converters)

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20 pages, 1276 KiB

Open AccessArticle

SiC-MOSFET and Si-IGBT-Based dc-dc Interleaved Converters for EV Chargers: Approach for Efficiency Comparison with Minimum Switching Losses Based on Complete Parasitic Modeling

by Jelena Loncarski, Vito Giuseppe Monopoli, Giuseppe Leonardo Cascella and Francesco Cupertino

Energies 2020, 13(17), 4585; https://doi.org/10.3390/en13174585 - 3 Sep 2020

Cited by 15 | Viewed by 4160

Abstract

Widespread dissemination of electric mobility is highly dependent on the power converters, storage systems and renewable energy sources. The efficiency and reliability, combined with the emerging and innovative technologies, are crucial when speaking of power converters. In this paper the interleaved dc–dc topology [...] Read more.

Widespread dissemination of electric mobility is highly dependent on the power converters, storage systems and renewable energy sources. The efficiency and reliability, combined with the emerging and innovative technologies, are crucial when speaking of power converters. In this paper the interleaved dc–dc topology has been considered for EV charging, due to its improved reliability. The efficiency comparison of the SiC-MOSFET and Si-IGBT-based converters has been done on wide range of switching frequency and output inductances. The interleaved converters were considered with the optimal switching parameters resulting from the analysis done on a detailed parasitic circuit model, ensuring minimum losses and maintaining the safe operating area. The analysis included the comparison of different inductors, and for the selected ones the complete system efficiency and cost were conducted. The results indicate the benefits when SiC-MOSFETs are applied to the interleaved dc–dc topology for wide ranges of output inductances and switching frequencies, and most importantly, they offer lower total volume but also total cost. The realistic and dynamic models of power devices obtained from the manufacturer’s experimental tests have been considered in both LTspice and PLECS simulation tools. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced DC-DC Power Converters and Switching Converters)

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23 pages, 6332 KiB

Open AccessArticle

From Non-Modular to Modular Concept of Bidirectional Buck/Boost Converter for Microgrid Applications

by Michal Frivaldsky, Slavomir Kascak, Jan Morgos and Michal Prazenica

Energies 2020, 13(12), 3287; https://doi.org/10.3390/en13123287 - 26 Jun 2020

Cited by 11 | Viewed by 3508

Abstract

In this article, the practical comparison of the operational performance of the modular (or multiport) and non-modular bidirectional buck/boost (bi-BB) DC/DC converter is realized. The main contribution of the work is the evaluation of both concepts based on various aspects, considering the qualitative [...] Read more.

In this article, the practical comparison of the operational performance of the modular (or multiport) and non-modular bidirectional buck/boost (bi-BB) DC/DC converter is realized. The main contribution of the work is the evaluation of both concepts based on various aspects, considering the qualitative indicators of the systems relevant for microgrids. Here, we discuss efficiency, electrical properties, costs, and component values. At the same time, critical comparisons are provided for converters based on SiC and GaN technology (non-modular high-voltage SiC-based dual-interleaved converter and modular low-voltage GaN-based). The concepts are specific with their operating frequency, whereby for each solution, the switching frequency is different and directly influences relevant components. The efficiency, overall system volume, output voltage ripple, and input current ripple are compared mutually between both concepts with a dependency on power delivery. These factors, together with overall volume and costs, are very important considering modern converters for microgrid systems. The summary of pros and cons is realized for each of the proposed converters, whereby the evaluation criterion is reflected within the electrical properties targeting microgrid application. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced DC-DC Power Converters and Switching Converters)

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20 pages, 5427 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Evaluation of a Three-Phase Bidirectional Isolated DC-DC Converter with Varying Transformer Configurations Using Phase-Shift Modulation and Burst-Mode Switching

by Nuraina Syahira Mohd Sharifuddin, Nadia M. L. Tan and Hirofumi Akagi

Energies 2020, 13(11), 2836; https://doi.org/10.3390/en13112836 - 2 Jun 2020

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 3607

Abstract

This paper presents the performance of a three-phase bidirectional isolated DC-DC converter (3P-BIDC) in wye-wye (Yy), wye-delta (Yd), delta-wye (Dy), and delta-delta (Dd) transformer configurations, using enhanced switching strategy that combines phase-shift modulation and burst-mode switching. A simulation verification using PSCAD is carried [...] Read more.

This paper presents the performance of a three-phase bidirectional isolated DC-DC converter (3P-BIDC) in wye-wye (Yy), wye-delta (Yd), delta-wye (Dy), and delta-delta (Dd) transformer configurations, using enhanced switching strategy that combines phase-shift modulation and burst-mode switching. A simulation verification using PSCAD is carried out to study the feasibility and compare the efficiency performance of the 3P-BIDC with each transformer configuration, using intermittent switching, which combines the conventional phase-shift modulation (PSM) and burst-mode switching, in the light load condition. The model is tested with continuous switching that employs the conventional PSM from medium to high loads (greater than 0.3 p.u.) and with intermittent switching at light load (less than 0.3 p.u), in different transformer configurations. In all tests, the DC-link voltages are equal to the transformer turns ratio of 1:1. This paper also presents the power loss estimation in continuous and intermittent switching to verify the modelled losses in the 3P-BIDC in the Yy transformer configuration. The 3P-BIDC is modelled by taking into account the effects that on-state voltage drop in the insulated-gate bipolar transistor (IGBTs) and diodes, snubber capacitors, and three-phase transformer copper winding resistances will have on the conduction and switching losses, and copper losses in the 3P-BIDC. The intermitting switching improves the efficiency of the DC-DC converter with Yy, Yd, Dy, and Dd connections in light-load operation. The 3P-BIDC has the best efficiency performance using Yy and Dd transformer configurations for all power transfer conditions in continuous and intermittent switching. Moreover, the highest efficiency of 99.6% is achieved at the light power transfer of 0.29 p.u. in Yy and Dd transformer configurations. However, the theoretical current stress in the 3P-BIDC with a Dd transformer configuration is high. Operation of the converter with Dy transformer configuration is less favorable due to the efficiency achievements of lower than 95%, despite burst-mode switching being applied. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced DC-DC Power Converters and Switching Converters)

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16 pages, 5734 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Multi-Input-Port Bidirectional DC/DC Converter for DC Microgrid Energy Storage System Applications

by Binxin Zhu, Hui Hu, Hui Wang and Yang Li

Energies 2020, 13(11), 2810; https://doi.org/10.3390/en13112810 - 1 Jun 2020

Cited by 17 | Viewed by 3188

Abstract

A multi-input-port bidirectional DC/DC converter is proposed in this paper for the energy storage systems in DC microgrid. The converter can connect various energy storage batteries to the DC bus at the same time. The proposed converter also has the advantages of low [...] Read more.

A multi-input-port bidirectional DC/DC converter is proposed in this paper for the energy storage systems in DC microgrid. The converter can connect various energy storage batteries to the DC bus at the same time. The proposed converter also has the advantages of low switch voltage stress and high voltage conversion gain. The working principle and performance characteristics of the converter were analyzed in detail, and a 200 W, two-input-port experimental prototype was built. The experimental results are consistent with the theoretical analysis. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced DC-DC Power Converters and Switching Converters)

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20 pages, 9932 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Interleaved High Step-Up DC–DC Converter with Voltage-Lift and Voltage-Stack Techniques for Photovoltaic Systems

by Shin-Ju Chen, Sung-Pei Yang, Chao-Ming Huang and Yu-Hua Chen

Energies 2020, 13(10), 2537; https://doi.org/10.3390/en13102537 - 16 May 2020

Cited by 9 | Viewed by 2824

Abstract

A novel interleaved high step-up DC–DC converter applied for applications in photovoltaic systems is proposed in this paper. The proposed configuration is composed of three-winding coupled inductors, voltage multiplier cells and a clamp circuit. The step-up voltage gain is effectively increased, owing to [...] Read more.

A novel interleaved high step-up DC–DC converter applied for applications in photovoltaic systems is proposed in this paper. The proposed configuration is composed of three-winding coupled inductors, voltage multiplier cells and a clamp circuit. The step-up voltage gain is effectively increased, owing to the voltage-stack and voltage-lift techniques using the voltage multiplier cells. The leakage inductor energy is recycled by the clamp circuit to avoid the voltage surge on a power switch. The low-voltage-rated power switches with low on-state resistances and costs can be used to decrease the conduction losses and increase the conversion efficiency when the voltage stresses of power switches for the converter are considerably lower than the high output voltage. The reverse-recovery problems of diodes are mitigated by the leakage inductances of the coupled inductors. Moreover, both the input current ripple and the current stress on each power switch are reduced, owing to the interleaved operation. The operating principle and steady-state analysis of the proposed converter are thoroughly presented herein. A controller network is designed to diminish the effect of the variations of input voltage and output load on the output voltage. Finally, the experimental results for a 1 kW prototype with 28–380 V voltage conversion are shown to demonstrate its effectiveness and performance. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced DC-DC Power Converters and Switching Converters)

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Review

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25 pages, 2390 KiB

Open AccessReview

State-Space Modeling Techniques of Emerging Grid-Connected Converters

by Fabio Mandrile, Salvatore Musumeci, Enrico Carpaneto, Radu Bojoi, Tomislav Dragičević and Frede Blaabjerg

Energies 2020, 13(18), 4824; https://doi.org/10.3390/en13184824 - 15 Sep 2020

Cited by 12 | Viewed by 3211

Abstract

In modern power electronics-based power systems, accurate modeling is necessary in order to analyze stability and the interaction between the different elements, which are connected to it. State space modeling seems a valid approach to study the modes of a certain system and [...] Read more.

In modern power electronics-based power systems, accurate modeling is necessary in order to analyze stability and the interaction between the different elements, which are connected to it. State space modeling seems a valid approach to study the modes of a certain system and their correlation with its states. Unfortunately, this approach may require complicated calculations and it is difficult to model advanced or emerging control techniques for grid-tied converters, such as cascaded controllers (e.g., voltage and current) and virtual synchronous generators (VSGs). Moreover, this approach does not allow an easy reconfiguration of the modeled system by adding, removing of modifying certain elements. To solve such problems, this paper presents a step-by-step approach to the converter modeling based on the Component Connection Method (CCM). The CCM is explained in detail and a practical example is given, by modeling one exemplary VSG model available in the literature. The obtained model is finally validated experimentally to demonstrate the practical accuracy of such approach. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced DC-DC Power Converters and Switching Converters)

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