Power quality improving based harmonical studies of a single phase step down bridge-cycloconverter

Abstract

igh efficiency and low-cost Static Frequency Changer (SFC) converters are widely used in electronic industry. SFC known as cycloconverter is installed to obtain variable output AC voltage or frequency. Fast dynamic response and slight size made these converters to occupy the potential space in switching world. Cycloconverter generates harmonics when connected to different types of loads. These harmonics pollute the purity of sinusoidal waveform and affect the quality of power system. Harmonic current is produced when an electrical device draws current in a nonsinusoidal manner. The harmonic voltage develops as harmonic current traverses the electrical system. Harmonic and current orders are inversely proportional to each other, respectively. These harmonics affect the execution of switching devices and causes breakdown of cable insulation, circuit breaker tripping, power transformer failures, limits on generator efficiency and UPS capacity. This paper comprises of odd harmonics that takes place in different load contiguous with cycloconverter. The 3rd, 5th, 7th and higher order harmonics are diagnosed by employing MATLAB platform. Simulation studies are depicted and proved the importance of single phase step down bridge - cycloconverter.