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The modular multilevel dc converter (M2dc) is a partial power processing dc–dc converter that is gaining popularity for medium-voltage and high-voltage dc (HVdc) grid applications. However, internal ac current stresses go up as the step-down dc voltage ratio increases, leading to increased cost and losses, and ultimately renders the M2dc impractical for some applications. The HVdc autotransformer (AT) (HVdc-AT) is another class of the partial power processing dc–dc converter that circumvents this issue by using a transformer for interarm ac voltage matching, although the core must tolerate a very large dc voltage stress between windings that leads to increased magnetics size and weight. Interestingly, the M2dc does not suffer from interwinding dc voltage stresses. This article presents a new class of the partial power processing dc–dc converter that uses an integrated center-tapped transformer to merge the best traits of the M2dc and HVdc-AT. Comparative analysis reveals the proposed converter can minimize ac current stresses at all operating points while also achieving a significant reduction in transformer area product relative to the HVdc-AT. A dynamic controller is proposed that regulates dc power transfer while ensuring balanced capacitor voltages. The converter operation and dynamic controls are validated by simulation and experiment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hybrid ac/dc power systems will rely on power electronics to enable controlled energy exchange between different dc and ac systems. Multiport dc–dc–ac (MP-DC2AC) converters offer the ability to exchange power between two dc systems and an ac system using a single converter structure. Potential benefits include reduced energy conversion stages and a more compact station footprint. To date, limited information is available on modeling, operation, and control of MP-DC2AC converters suitable for HVDC and MVDC applications. This paper helps to fill this gap by presenting a generalized modeling and control framework for two yet unexplored MP-DC2AC modular multilevel converters. Based on derived analytical models of internal power transfer mechanisms, a dynamic controller is proposed that allows independent control of port power flows while keeping capacitor voltages regulated. Results are validated by extensive time-domain simulations. A comprehensive comparative analysis between four different MP-DC2AC topologies is carried out. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Explosive levels of research into modular multilevel dc–dc converters (dc–dc MMCs) for dc and hybrid ac–dc systems are currently being witnessed. A new class of dc–dc MMCs has recently emerged that obviates the traditional intermediate ac link with galvanic isolation by internally circulating ac power among the converter switching cells. This novel power transfer mechanism opens the door to an array of new non-isolated converter structures with broad application in MVDC and HVDC systems. This paper gives a comprehensive overview of dc–dc MMCs that exploit the circulating ac power concept. Emergent topologies suitable for use in dc and hybrid ac–dc grids are identified and collated into the following categories: 1) two-terminal and multi-terminal dc–dc MMCs; 2) dc–dc MMCs with ac grid interface; 3) dc line power tapping devices; and 4) dc line power flow controllers. The survey provides researchers with an overall snapshot of technology development for this promising new class of converters in key areas relevant to smart grids. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Multiport HV DC-DC converters are required to facilitate future HVDC infrastructure with the ability to interconnect and manage power flow between multiple HVDC networks. Existing topologies offer limited modularity and scalability, making them difficult to implement in the fast-growing HVDC industry. In this paper, a multiport modular multilevel converter (MP-MMC) is proposed as the first truly modular multiport HV DC-DC converter. The MP-MMC is made up of multiple subconverters that can be controlled individually with de-centralized controllers, allowing easy reconfiguration and high reliability of the converter power circuit. The MP-MMC is compared with other prominent multiport HV DC-DC converters based on modularity, reliability, semiconductor effort, magnetics requirement, and fault-blocking performance. Operation and performance of the MP-MMC are verified by simulation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper begins by presenting a generalized methodology for conceptualizing modular multilevel converter (MMC)-based dc–dc topologies, which is predicated on the concept of harmonic power balance. A compelling implication is that MMC-based variants of conventional switched-mode converter structures can be realized. As an example case study, this paper introduces a new dc–dc MMC for HVdc applications, which is derived from the classical buck–boost dc–dc converter. This new topology, which is revealed to be an alternative option to the well-known dual active bridge (DAB) converter with an intermediate transformer, offers buck–boost functionality and bidirectional dc fault blocking, using only two quadrant switching cells. Comparative analysis shows the proposed topology has lower operating losses and a lower total magnetics rating in comparison to an MMC-based DAB solution for dc stepping ratios around unity. A dynamic controller is developed that regulates the converter dc power throughput while maintaining balanced capacitor voltages. The converter operating principle, dynamic controller performance, and dc fault blocking are verified by simulation. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

The dc-modular multilevel converter (DC-MMC) is one of a new class of single-stage modular multilevel dc–dc converters that has recently emerged for high-voltage dc applications. This paper presents the first small-signal state-space model for the DC-MMC that is able to account for the multifrequency power transfer mechanisms within the converter. Derived from a dynamic phasor model representation of the DC-MMC, the developed model is linear time-invariant (LTI), allowing for the application of conventional LTI tools for both analysis and design. The small-signal dynamics are validated by simulation results from a full switched model demonstrating its accuracy. A simplified model derived from the full LTI system is presented that readers can utilize to develop dynamic controls for the DC-MMC. As a case study, this benchmark model is leveraged to propose a dynamic controller that regulates dc power transfer between networks and balances the capacitor voltages. Control block diagrams are also provided that enable systematic control design of the DC-MMC via standard linear methods. Case study simulations verify the efficacy of the developed controls for dc network applications. The presented small-signal modeling and control design methodology can be readily applied to any MMC-based topology. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

A new class of modular multilevel dc/dc converters has recently emerged that eliminates the traditional full-rated intermediate ac stage inherent to two-stage dc/dc converter structures, that is, two cascaded dc/ac modular multilevel converters (MMCs). This paper introduces the first averaged dynamic state-space model for this new class of single-stage dc/dc converter, called the DC-MMC, which captures all input and output terminal dynamics as well as internal capacitor dynamics. Based on the developed analytical model, a dynamic phasor model is derived to accommodate the multifrequency components that exist at steady state. The phasor model enables: 1) solving for the full steady-state solution of the DC-MMC under arbitrary loading and 2) evaluation of DC-MMC open-loop stability via eigenvalue analysis. These analyses are not possible with existing DC-MMC models. Simulations of a comprehensive switched model verify the accuracy of the presented analytical models, which represent valuable study tools for the analysis of emerging modular multilevel dc/dc converters containing multiple frequency components. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

This paper introduces a modular multilevel dc/dc converter, termed the DC-MMC, that can be deployed to interconnect HVDC networks of different or similar voltage levels. Its key features include: 1) bidirectional power flow; 2) step-up and step-down operation; and 3) bidirectional fault blocking similar to a dc circuit breaker. The kernel of the DC-MMC is a new class of bidirectional single-stage dc/dc converters utilizing interleaved strings of cascaded submodules. The DC-MMC operation is analyzed and an open loop voltage control strategy that ensures power balance of each submodule capacitor via circulating ac currents is proposed. Simulations performed in PLECS validate the DC-MMC's principle of operation and the proposed control strategy. Experimental results for a 4-kW laboratory prototype illustrate the single-stage dc/dc conversion process for both step-down and step-up operating modes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]