Reduced parts-count multi-level rectifiers

Multi-level power converters have gained much attention due to their high power quality, low switching losses, and high-voltage capability. These advantages make the multi-level converter a candidate topology for the next generation of naval ship propulsion systems. The primary disadvantage of these systems is the large number of semiconductors involved. This paper presents a reduced parts-count rectifier which is well suited for naval rectifier applications where bi-directional power flow is not required. The proposed converter is analyzed and experimentally verified on an 18 kW four-level rectifier/inverter system.