The Development of an off-line Switched-Mode Rectifier using MOSFET Switching in a Double Forward Converter Configuration

This paper describes the development of a high-power, single-phase, off-line, switched-mode rectifier designed with full surveillance capability. The rectifier uses a double-forward converter topology with power MOSFET transistors. The unit is convection cooled and uses epoxy bonding for the mounting of its power components. The unit is upgradable from a basic unit with essential alarm features only, to a full surveillance unit with numerous controls and alarms. The unit was designed for ease of manufacturability by having a modular type of construction with a minimal number of hard-wired connections. The problems and challenges of this approach will be discussed.