Design and Analysis of a PSFB Current Doubler for VRFB: Impact of Magnetic Components and Snubber Circuit Requirements

This paper presents a comprehensive analysis and design of a Phase-Shifted Full-Bridge (PSFB) current doubler topology designed for Vanadium Redox Flow Battery (VRFB) energy storage systems. The focus lies on the optimization of magnetic component design, especially the transformer, for efficiency enhancement. The paper explores the challenges associated with operating at lower switching frequencies, emphasizing the requirement for an effective snubber circuit to mitigate transformer leakage effect and voltage stress on the switching devices. Simulation and experimental results validate the theoretical analysis, demonstrating the impact of magnetic design and snubber circuit implementation and voltage ripple. The proposed design methodology is a practical framework for developing reliable and efficient energy storage converters in VRFB systems.