Power factor correction of non-linear loads employing a single phase active power filter: control strategy, design methodology and experimentation

This paper presents a technique for single phase power factor correction of nonlinear loads employing an active power filter. The current control strategy is the same used in the boost pre-regulator, which is the average current mode technique. The paper focuses on the design methodology and the analysis of the control strategy which allows the compensation of harmonics and phase displacement of the input current, for single and multiple nonlinear and linear loads. Simulation results of an active filter controlling a single load, which consists of a 1600 W rectifier with a capacitive filter, and a multiple load, which consists of a 800 W rectifier with a capacitive filter and a 800 W AC chopper, are provided. Experimental results of an active filter controlling a 400 W rectifier with a capacitive filter, a 800 W AC chopper and a 580 W multiple load, which consists of a rectifier with a capacitive filter and an AC chopper, are presented.