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Improving Efficiency in AC drives: Comparison of Topologies and Device Technologies

New standards for power losses measurements for variable speed drives are presented. The power losses of typical variable speed drives are analyzed and future alternatives to increase their efficiency investigated. Solutions with Silicon (Si) technology in Three-Level or Silicon/Silicon Carbide (SiC) as well as full SiC systems in Two-Level topology are shown to increase the inverter efficiency. This article analyses the distribution of power losses in three typical VSD applications: general purpose drives (GPD) used in industry, VSD for elevators (lifts), and VSD for high- speed motors. These drives applications show different requirements for the power semiconductors. Possible scenarios are discussed based on current and future power switching devices and topologies, and using typical operating conditions for the different drive types. The impact of new components and technologies is compared for the mentioned application fields.

• 891.58 KB
• 2014/05/31