New Topology Cuts Size, Improves Performance of PV Inverters

Focus:

A new current–modulation topology developed by Ideal Power Converters promises higher efficiency, lower weight, and reduce installation costs for photovoltaic (PV) inverters and potentially other inverter applications up to 100 kW. (Grid storage and EV fast chargers are noted in particular.) In comparison with the voltage-source topology, this new topology relies more on semiconductor switches and software controls to achieve isolation while eliminating a heavy transformer. In this article, a 30-kW PV inverter based on the current-modulation topology is described, principles of operation for the topology and its benefits are explained, and the topology is compared with existing PV inverter topologies. Currently, the topology is implemented using bi-directional power switches formed from discrete IGBTs and diodes, but the company is developing a bi-directional IGBT that will optimize inverter performance further as described here. Non-capacitive leakage currents are a factor and the methods used to protect against them are discussed. The 10 modes of operation for this topology are described.

What you’ll learn:

• How to understand the operation and benefits of the Ideal Power Converters’ current modulation topology for PV inverters up to 100 kW

Notes:

The 10/01/12 publication date reflects the appearance of this article in the October print edition of PET magazine. However, 9-28-12 is listed as the publication date in the online posting of this article.

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Author & Publication:

Bill Alexander, Founder and CTO of IPC and Sam Davis, Editor-in-Chief, PET, Power Electronics Technology, Oct 01 2012

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