Power Loss Analysis of Two-Level and Three-Level Converters under Active Short-Circuit Operating Conditions for Multi-Lane Electric Aviation Applications

This article presents static and dynamic active short-circuit (ASC) strategies to enhance the safety of multilane electrical propulsion systems. We evaluate the semiconductor losses of wide-bandgap devices in various converter topologies, under normal operations and ASC conditions. After comparing numerous ASC schemes, the optimal approaches are identified: static neutral ASC is suggested for neutral-point-clamped (NPC) converter and active neutral-point-clamped (ANPC) converter. Dynamic swapping method is suggested for the classic two-level converter and T-type NPC converter. Our findings also highlight the superior efficiency of ANPC converter. The evidence for reduced power losses under all modes of operation highlights an attractive feature allowing for low-inductance permanent magnet machine designs with high power factor and high short-circuit current carrying capabilities.