Hybrid Multilevel Converters: Topologies, Evolutions and Verifications

Abstract

Multilevel converters have good potential in high power and high voltage applications due to their advantages of reduced voltage or current stress on power devices. In recent years, hybrid multilevel converter (HMC) have attracted increasing attention since less equipment is required. In this paper, the topologies and evolutions of HMCs are presented, where five topology derivation ways are given by using basic cells in series-parallel/parallel-series. Some general topologies or structures that are used to generate higher levels are also deducted. Then many existing HMCs can be derived, and new topologies of the HMC might be inspired. The capabilities of neutral point and FC voltage balancing control are investigated. The performance of the selected FC-based HMCs is analyzed. Finally, the verifications of operation principle and control strategies for the derived HMCs are carried out.