An analysis of the influences of power electronics devices on fundamental frequency front ends : a thesis presented in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the degree of Master of Engineering in Mechatronics at Massey University, Palmerston North, New Zealand.
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Date
2010
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Massey University
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Abstract
New power electronics devices like Fundamental Frequency Front Ends (F3E) reduce
procurement costs by eliminating or reducing the intermediate capacitors usually found
on the DC-side of modern rectifier-inverter combinations. This cost-saving measure,
however, eliminates the quasi-decoupling of rectifier and inverter; whereas interactions
between rectifier and inverter could be neglected in most applications. These
interactions are relevant to the correct function and operation of the whole application
in case of reduced intermediate capacitors. Without the decoupling of rectifier and
inverter, the inverter input currents will be passed on to the rectifier, and ultimately, will
be discernible on the power grid. As a result, the input currents of the appliance will
deviate greatly from the idealised sinusoidal waveform. To reduce this effect, an input
filter is used, which in turn might interact with other power electronics devices
connected to the same power grid.
To date, the scope of the rectifier inverter and the F3E third-party equipment
interactions has not been sufficiently investigated. An examination with real devices is
impractical due to the wide range of configurations possible and the potential harm to
the equipment itself. In this study, the simulation models of the devices involved and
the power grid connecting different appliances were developed. A theoretical analysis to
identify possible areas of impaired or disturbed operation was undertaken. The areas
identified were then analysed using the computer models developed. The simulation
results, electrical currents, and voltages were examined with regards to their absolute
values and their degree of deviation from the idealised sinusoidal form. Their harmonic
spectra were likewise analysed. Finally, areas of disturbed operation and the conditions
under which they occur were identified. This study, therefore, will provide the basis for
the successive elimination of these areas of disturbed operation.
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Keywords
Power electronics devices, Fundamental Frequency Front End (F3E), Rectifier inverter, Rectifier topology, Mechatronics