Comparative analysis of MAB dc-dc converters configurations in modular smart transformer

In this work, the quadruple active bridge dc-dc converter (QAB) is proposed to be used as a building block to implement the dc-dc stage of a Smart Transformer. Different configuration for this converter are possible and all of them are considered for investigation. Thus, four different architectures of ST, including one based on the Dual Active Bridge (DAB) converter, are presented and compared in terms of cost, efficiency, reliability and implementation complexity. As an additional contribution, different semiconductors technology (silicon IGBT and silicon carbide MOSFETs) are evaluated in order to verify their impact on ST application. The design for each architecture is described and the results are compared. In order to validate the theoretical analysis developed in the paper, a 20 kW prototype was built and experimented.