High-Performance SRM Drive for Household Appliances

In current scenario, SRM drive fed with a diode bridge rectifier has several demerits as low power factor (PF), high current total harmonic distortion (THD), and high cost. To mitigate these challenges, a high-power quality (PQ) front-end converter is presented in this paper. A modified SEPIC dual output with a totem pole structure is derived for a midpoint converter-based SRM drive for an efficient cost-effective low power solution. Balanced split output voltages are generated and varied by a voltage controller for wide range speed variation of SRM. Additionally, front-end PFC converter is accountable for ensuring grid-side unity power factor along with managing DC link voltage. Moreover, discontinuous conduction mode (DCM) is recommended for energy efficiency and economic viability. A 500 W, SRM drive is simulated at rated and dynamic conditions. DC link voltage is controlled from 100 V to 300 V for varying motor speeds. Simulated results validate converter performance enhanced power quality at grid side with SRM control.