5-Level E-type back to back power converters—A new solution for extreme efficiency and power density

A novel solution to high efficiency and high specific power three-phase Back to Back Power Converters has been proposed and theoretically investigated in this paper. Target applications are variable speed gen-sets, electric drives and independent power supplies. The solution proposed is based on a novel 5-Level E-Type topology. Advantages of the new solution, such as significant reduction of the input/output filter size/weight and switching losses have been theoretically investigated. A typical 20kVA independent gen-set power supply application has been analyzed as a case study. An extraordinary double conversion efficiency of 98.6% and specific power of 5kVA/kg have been achieved. The design results has been confirmed by set of Plexim/PLECS simulations.