Evaluation of actively clamped resonant link inverter for low-output harmonic distortion high-power-density power converters

The suitability of a soft-switched actively clamped resonant DC-link (ACRDCL) inverter for low-output harmonic distortion/high-power-density power conversion is evaluated. Modulation and control techniques for achieving low-output harmonic distortion are described. Performance and power density of the ACRDCL inverter are maximized through the optimal design of the clamp circuit, resonant components, and output filter components. The ACRDCL inverter simulation and design are validated experimentally. For the same output kilovoltamperes, efficiency and harmonic performance as the ACRDCL inverter, hard-switched designs are compared. Methods to increase the power density of the ACRDCL are proposed, including the use of recently developed nonpunchthrough insulated gate bipolar transistors.