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Title: Proof of principle of the solid-state transformer: The AC/AC switchmode regulator. Final report

Technical Report ·
OSTI ID:106457
 [1]
  1. San Jose State Univ., CA (United States). Power Electronics/Controls Lab.

Today, 60 Hz AC/AC transformers are heavy, bulky and subjected to magnetic saturation due to DC current components, and also overheating due to harmonic currents. A solid-state transformer based on switchmode technology would minimize these problems. It can be smaller in size, have, therefore, improved thermal management, and be insensitive to DC current components. Such a transformer would also allow electronic voltage and current waveshaping. It is likely that the utility of the future would benefit greatly from an all solid-state substation. This work demonstrates by design and hardware implementation a solid-state transformer, based on buck and buck-boost switchmode technology to demonstrate electronic direct AC/AC voltage control, using bidirectional switches. Output/input electrical isolation is discussed. We have reviewed the present state of the art AC/AC switchmode technologies and their applications to the solid-state transformer. Most of the presently on-going work is conducted in countries other than the USA, although much of the early 1980`s work originated here. Soft-switching topologies were not considered in this study. By adding additional switches, resonant converters appear to address both issues in commutation and efficiency. Recently Cho and Cho, 1991, and Huh and Cho, 1991, proposed resonant AC/AC topologies operating to 1000W. Further work may well extend this power range. Clearly, the concept of a solid-state electronic transformer proves to be feasible and will have significant impact on the electric utility, including efficiency.

Research Organization:
Electric Power Research Inst. (EPRI), Palo Alto, CA (United States); San Jose State Univ., CA (United States). Power Electronics/Controls Lab.
Sponsoring Organization:
Electric Power Research Inst., Palo Alto, CA (United States)
OSTI ID:
106457
Report Number(s):
EPRI-TR-105067
Resource Relation:
Other Information: PBD: Aug 1995
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English

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