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The classical discontinuous pulsewidth modulations (DPWMs) cannot be efficiently applied in active power filters (APFs) because it is difficult to predict the peak values of the inverter current. Consequently, it is difficult to calculate the optimal position of the clamped interval to minimize the switching losses in any operating point. This paper proposes a new DPWM strategy for shunt APFs. The proposed modulation strategy detects the current vector position relative to the inverter voltage reference and determines the optimum clamped duration for each phase, in terms of switching power losses. It achieves a clamped voltage pattern, with variable lengths depending on the magnitude of the inverter current. This property reduces the current stress and minimizes the inverter switching losses. The proposed modulation strategy is described, analyzed, and validated on a three-phase voltage source inverter, rated at 3 kVA, 400 V, controlled as an APF. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]