A Study on the Feasibility of Using SiC Devices in Realising Highly Power Dense Matrix Converters

This study evaluates the feasibility of using wide band gap (WBG) devices, particularly silicon carbide (SiC) to enable highly power-dense matrix converters (MC) for efficient drive applications. The research compares the losses in a direct MC at 35kW power output running at typical UK grid operating conditions using an all-silicon (Si), silicon-SiC hybrid, and all-SiC device combinations within the bidirectional switch of the MC. Results show that the all-SiC setup produces the lowest losses, improving system efficiency to over 97%. This allows for improved through-life efficiency and compact converter design. Furthermore, this study correlates the excellent outcomes obtained, to practical applications, notably in integrated motor drive (IMD) systems, making the case for broader commercial implementation of SiC-based IMDs, more so when analysed on a cost-to-benefit metric.