Three-level two-stage decoupled active NPC converter with Si IGBT and SiC MOSFET

This paper presents the operation principle and benefits of a novel power converter topology named three-level two-stage decoupled Active Neutral Point Clamped Converter (3L-TDANPC), which is implemented based on a hybrid utilization of Si IGBTs and SiC MOSFETs. The 3L-TDANPC converter can achieve high efficiency with limited number of SiC MOSFET modules while keeping balanced distribution among the switching devices, which helps manage the converter power ratings. In addition, in this 3L-TDANPC converter, the SiC MOSFET has a potential to ride through short circuit fault because of Si IGBT. The key challenges that are associated with system resonant current is investigated and the methods to damp such current are proposed and explained in detail. The simulation and double pulse test results based on a 1-MW 3L-TDANPC converter prototype confirm the expected benefits of this proposed converter and the effectiveness of the proposed resonant current damping methods.