A novel power stack designed by half-bridge module with ANPC topology for a high-power offshore windpower converter

The latest offshore wind turbine trend is to-wards high power ratings to reduce the cost per watt. A 1140 V voltage converter is introduced as a three-level solution, designed with standard 1700 V half-bridge IGBT modules. A new power stack is proposed with ANPC topology for a 1140 V 16 MW converter, which is based on PrimePACKTM modules in asymmetric configuration. The new proposal is intended to provide a competitive cost-performance solution, by improving the output capability per IGBT module. The power losses are simulated, and FEM thermal simulation is also done under the specific layout on a simplified heatsink. Additionally, the junction temperature ripple is calculated to check the life expectation with .XT technology.