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LECTURE NOTES
ON
POWER ELECTRONICS
BY
PROF. M. MADHUSUDHAN RAO
1
AC VOLTAGE CONTROLLER CIRCUITS
(RMS VOLTAGE CONTROLLERS)
AC voltage controllers (ac line voltage controllers) are employed to vary the RMS
value of the alternating voltage applied to a load circuit by introducing Thyristors
between the load and a constant voltage ac source. The RMS value of alternating voltage
applied to a load circuit is controlled by controlling the triggering angle of the Thyristors
in the ac voltage controller circuits.
In brief, an ac voltage controller is a type of thyristor power converter which is
used to convert a fixed voltage, fixed frequency ac input supply to obtain a variable
voltage ac output. The RMS value of the ac output voltage and the ac power flow to the
load is controlled by varying (adjusting) the trigger angle ‘α ’
V0 ( R M S )
A C Vs A C V a r ia b le A C
In p u t V o lt a g e R M S O / P V o lt a g e
V o l t a g fes C o n t r o lle r
fs fS
There are two different types of thyristor control used in practice to control the ac
power flow
• On-Off control
• Phase control
PHASE CONTROL
In phase control the Thyristors are used as switches to connect the load circuit to
the input ac supply, for a part of every input cycle. That is the ac supply voltage is
chopped using Thyristors during a part of each input cycle.
The thyristor switch is turned on for a part of every half cycle, so that input supply
voltage appears across the load and then turned off during the remaining part of input half
cycle to disconnect the ac supply from the load.
By controlling the phase angle or the trigger angle ‘α ’ (delay angle), the output
RMS voltage across the load can be controlled.
The trigger delay angle ‘α ’ is defined as the phase angle (the value of ω t) at
which the thyristor turns on and the load current begins to flow.
Thyristor ac voltage controllers use ac line commutation or ac phase commutation.
Thyristors in ac voltage controllers are line commutated (phase commutated) since the
input supply is ac. When the input ac voltage reverses and becomes negative during the
negative half cycle the current flowing through the conducting thyristor decreases and
2
falls to zero. Thus the ON thyristor naturally turns off, when the device current falls to
zero.
Phase control Thyristors which are relatively inexpensive, converter grade
Thyristors which are slower than fast switching inverter grade Thyristors are normally
used.
For applications upto 400Hz, if Triacs are available to meet the voltage and
current ratings of a particular application, Triacs are more commonly used.
Due to ac line commutation or natural commutation, there is no need of extra
commutation circuitry or components and the circuits for ac voltage controllers are very
simple.
Due to the nature of the output waveforms, the analysis, derivations of expressions
for performance parameters are not simple, especially for the phase controlled ac voltage
controllers with RL load. But however most of the practical loads are of the RL type and
hence RL load should be considered in the analysis and design of ac voltage controller
circuits.
3
ac supply to the load for ‘n’ number of input cycles during the time interval tON . The
thyristor switches T1 and T2 are turned off by blocking the gate trigger pulses for ‘m’
number of input cycles during the time interval tOFF . The ac controller ON time tON
usually consists of an integral number of input cycles.
R = RL = Load Resistance
Fig.: Single phase full wave AC voltage controller circuit
V s n m
wt
V o
io
wt
ig 1 G a t e p 1u l s e o f T
wt
ig 2 G a t e p 2u l s e o f T
wt
Fig.: Waveforms
Example
Referring to the waveforms of ON-OFF control technique in the above diagram,
4
n = Two input cycles. Thyristors are turned ON during tON for two input cycles.
m = One input cycle. Thyristors are turned OFF during tOFF for one input cycle
Thyristors are turned ON precisely at the zero voltage crossings of the input
supply. The thyristor T1 is turned on at the beginning of each positive half cycle by
applying the gate trigger pulses to T1 as shown, during the ON time tON . The load current
flows in the positive direction, which is the downward direction as shown in the circuit
diagram when T1 conducts. The thyristor T2 is turned on at the beginning of each
negative half cycle, by applying gating signal to the gate of T2 , during tON . The load
current flows in the reverse direction, which is the upward direction when T2 conducts.
Thus we obtain a bi-directional load current flow (alternating load current flow) in a ac
voltage controller circuit, by triggering the thyristors alternately.
This type of control is used in applications which have high mechanical inertia
and high thermal time constant (Industrial heating and speed control of ac motors). Due to
zero voltage and zero current switching of Thyristors, the harmonics generated by
switching actions are reduced.
For a sine wave input supply voltage,
vs = Vm sin ω t = 2VS sin ω t
V
VS = RMS value of input ac supply = m = RMS phase supply voltage.
2
If the input ac supply is connected to load for ‘n’ number of input cycles and
disconnected for ‘m’ number of input cycles, then
tON = n × T , tOFF = m × T
1
Where T = = input cycle time (time period) and
f
f = input supply frequency.
tON = controller on time = n × T .
tOFF = controller off time = m × T .
TO = Output time period = ( tON + tOFF ) = ( nT + mT ) .
5
6
We can show that,
tON t
Output RMS voltage VO( RMS ) = Vi ( RMS ) = VS ON
TO TO
ωt
1 ON 2 2
Vm Sin ω t.d ( ω t )
ωTO ωt∫=0
Output RMS voltage VO( RMS ) =
ω tON
Vm 2
VO( RMS ) = ∫ Sin 2ω t.d ( ω t )
ωTO 0
1 − Cos 2θ
Substituting for Sin 2θ =
2
ω tON
Vm 2 1 − Cos 2ω t
VO( RMS ) =
ωTO ∫ 2 d ( ω t )
0
Vm 2 ωtON ω tON
VO( RMS ) = ∫ ( ) ∫ Cos 2ω t.d ( ω t )
d ω t −
2ωTO 0 0
Vm 2
ω tON ω tON
Sin 2ω t
VO( RMS ) = ( ω t ) −
2ωTO 0
2 0
Where T is the input supply time period (T = input cycle time period). Thus we note that
sin 2ω tON = 0
Vm 2 ω tON Vm tON
VO( RMS ) = =
2 ω TO 2 TO
7
tON t
VO( RMS ) = Vi ( RMS ) = VS ON
TO TO
Vm
Where Vi ( RMS ) = = VS = RMS value of input supply voltage;
2
tON tON nT n
= = = = k = duty cycle (d).
TO tON + tOFF nT + mT ( n + m )
n
VO( RMS ) = VS =V k
( m + n) S
= ∫0 Vm sin ω t.d ( ω t )
2 2
VO( RMS )
2π ( n + m )
Vm n
VO( RMS ) = =V k = VS k
2 ( m + n ) i ( RMS )
• Duty Cycle
t tON nT
k = ON = =
TO ( tON + tOFF ) ( m + n ) T
n
Where, k =
( m + n ) = duty cycle (d).
PO = I O2 ( RMS ) × RL
8
• Input Power Factor
I O2 ( RMS ) × RL
PF = ; I S = I in( RMS ) = RMS input supply current.
Vi( RMS ) × Iin ( RMS )
Hence, RMS supply current = RMS load current; I in( RMS ) = IO ( RMS ) .
n
PF = k =
m+n
W a v e f o r m o f T h y r is t o r C u r r e
iT m
n
Im
0 π 2π 3π ωt
π
n
I m sin ω t.d ( ω t )
2π ( m + n ) ∫0
IT ( Avg ) =
π
nI m
sin ω t.d ( ω t )
2π ( m + n ) ∫0
IT ( Avg ) =
nI m π
IT ( Avg ) = − cos ω t
2π ( m + n ) 0
nI m
IT ( Avg ) = [ − cos π + cos 0]
2π ( m + n )
9
nI m
IT ( Avg ) = − ( −1) + 1
2π ( m + n )
n
IT ( Avg ) = [ 2Im ]
2π ( m + n )
Imn k .I
IT ( Avg ) = = m
π ( m + n) π
tON n
k = duty cycle = =
( tON + tOFF ) ( n + m )
Imn k .I
IT ( Avg ) = = m ,
π ( m + n) π
Vm
Where I m = = maximum or peak thyristor current.
RL
1
nI m2 π
2
IT ( RMS ) = ∫ sin 2
ω t .d ( ω t )
2π ( n + m ) 0
1
nI m2 π
( 1 − cos 2ω t ) d 2
IT ( RMS ) = ∫ ( ωt )
2π ( n + m ) 0
2
1
nI m2 π π
2
1
nI m2 π
sin 2ω t
π
2
IT ( RMS ) = ( ω t ) −
4π ( n + m ) 0 2
0
1
nI m2 sin 2π − sin 0
2
IT ( RMS ) = ( π − 0 ) −
4π ( n + m ) 2
10
1
nI m2 2
IT ( RMS ) = { π − 0 − 0}
4π ( n + m )
1 1
nI m2π 2
nIm2 2
IT ( RMS ) = =
4π ( n + m ) 4 ( n + m)
Im n I
IT ( RMS ) = = m k
2 ( m + n) 2
Im
IT ( RMS ) = k
2
PROBLEM
1. A single phase full wave ac voltage controller working on ON-OFF control
technique has supply voltage of 230V, RMS 50Hz, load = 50Ω . The controller is
ON for 30 cycles and off for 40 cycles. Calculate
• ON & OFF time intervals.
• RMS output voltage.
• Input P.F.
• Average and RMS thyristor currents.
1 1
T= = = 0.02sec , T = 20ms .
f 50 Hz
n 30
Duty cycle k = = = 0.4285
( m + n ) ( 40 + 30 )
RMS output voltage
n
VO( RMS ) = Vi ( RMS ) ×
( m + n)
11
30 3
VO( RMS ) = 230V × = 230
( 30 + 40 ) 7
n 30
PF = = = 0.4285
( m + n) 70
PF = 0.654653
Vm 2 × 230 325.269
where Im = = =
RL 50 50
6.505382 3
IT ( Avg ) = ×
π 7
IT ( Avg ) = 0.88745 A
IT ( RMS ) = 2.129386 A
12
PRINCIPLE OF AC PHASE CONTROL
The basic principle of ac phase control technique is explained with reference to a
single phase half wave ac voltage controller (unidirectional controller) circuit shown in
the below figure.
The half wave ac controller uses one thyristor and one diode connected in parallel
across each other in opposite direction that is anode of thyristor T1 is connected to the
cathode of diode D1 and the cathode of T1 is connected to the anode of D1 . The output
voltage across the load resistor ‘R’ and hence the ac power flow to the load is controlled
by varying the trigger angle ‘α ’.
The trigger angle or the delay angle ‘α ’ refers to the value of ω t or the instant at
which the thyristor T1 is triggered to turn it ON, by applying a suitable gate trigger pulse
between the gate and cathode lead.
The thyristor T1 is forward biased during the positive half cycle of input ac
supply. It can be triggered and made to conduct by applying a suitable gate trigger pulse
only during the positive half cycle of input supply. When T1 is triggered it conducts and
the load current flows through the thyristor T1 , the load and through the transformer
secondary winding.
By assuming T1 as an ideal thyristor switch it can be considered as a closed switch
when it is ON during the period ω t = α to π radians. The output voltage across the load
follows the input supply voltage when the thyristor T1 is turned-on and when it conducts
from ω t = α to π radians. When the input supply voltage decreases to zero at ω t = π , for
a resistive load the load current also falls to zero at ω t = π and hence the thyristor T1
turns off at ω t = π . Between the time period ω t = π to 2π , when the supply voltage
reverses and becomes negative the diode D1 becomes forward biased and hence turns ON
and conducts. The load current flows in the opposite direction during ω t = π to 2π
radians when D1 is ON and the output voltage follows the negative half cycle of input
supply.
13
Equations
Input AC Supply Voltage across the Transformer Secondary Winding.
vs = Vm sin ω t
Vm
VS = Vin( RMS ) = = RMS value of secondary supply voltage.
2
vo = vL = 0 ; for ω t = 0 to α
vo = vL = Vm sin ω t ; for ω t = α to 2π .
vo Vm sin ω t
io = iL = = ; for ω t = α to 2π .
RL RL
io = iL = 0 ; for ω t = 0 to α .
1
2π
VO( RMS ) = ∫ Vm sin ω t.d ( ω t )
2 2
2π α
Vm 2 2π 1 − cos 2ω t
VO( RMS ) = ∫ .d ( ω t )
2π α 2
14
Vm 2 2π
VO( RMS ) = ∫ ( 1 − cos 2ω t ) .d ( ω t )
4π α
V 2π 2π
VO( RMS ) = m ∫ d ( ω t ) − ∫ cos 2ω t.dω t
2 π α α
V 2π
sin 2ω t
2π
VO( RMS ) = m ( ω t ) −
2 π α 2 α
2π
sin 2ω t
( 2π − α ) −
Vm
VO( RMS ) =
2 π 2 α
sin 4π sin 2α
( 2π − α ) −
Vm
VO( RMS ) = − ;sin 4π = 0
2 π 2 2
Vm sin 2α
VO( RMS ) = ( 2π − α ) +
2 π 2
Vm sin 2α
VO( RMS ) = ( 2π − α ) +
2 2π 2
Vm 1 sin 2α
VO( RMS ) = ( 2π − α ) +
2 2π 2
1 sin 2α
VO( RMS ) = Vi ( RMS ) ( 2π − α ) +
2π 2
1 sin 2α
VO( RMS ) = VS ( 2π − α ) +
2π 2
Vm
Where, Vi ( RMS ) = VS = = RMS value of input supply voltage (across the
2
transformer secondary winding).
Note: Output RMS voltage across the load is controlled by changing 'α ' as indicated by
the expression for VO( RMS )
15
PLOT OF VO( RMS ) VERSUS TRIGGER ANGLE α FOR A SINGLE PHASE HALF-
WAVE AC VOLTAGE CONTROLLER (UNIDIRECTIONAL CONTROLLER)
Vm 1 sin 2α
VO( RMS ) = ( 2π − α ) +
2 2π 2
1 sin 2α
VO( RMS ) = VS ( 2π − α ) +
2π 2
By using the expression for VO( RMS ) we can obtain the control characteristics,
which is the plot of RMS output voltage VO( RMS ) versus the trigger angle α . A typical
control characteristic of single phase half-wave phase controlled ac voltage controller is
as shown below
600 π ; ( 2π ) 0.949868 VS
3 6
900 π ; ( 3π ) 0.866025 VS
2 6
1200 2π ; ( 4π ) 0.77314 VS
3 6
1500 5π ; ( 5π ) 0.717228 VS
6 6
1800 π ; ( 6π ) 0.707106 VS
6
V O ( R M S )
1 0 0 %S V 7 0 . 7 S% V
6 0 % S V
2 0 % S V
0 6 0 1 2 0 1 8 0
T r i g g e r αa n g l e in d e g r e e s
16
Note: We can observe from the control characteristics and the table given above that the
range of RMS output voltage control is from 100% of VS to 70.7% of VS when we vary
the trigger angle α from zero to 180 degrees. Thus the half wave ac controller has the
draw back of limited range RMS output voltage control.
2π
Vm
VO( dc ) =
2π ∫ sin ω t.d ( ω t )
α
Vm 2π
VO( dc ) = − cos ω t
2π α
Vm
VO( dc ) = [ − cos 2π + cos α ] ; cos 2π = 1
2π
Vm
Vdc = [ cos α − 1] ; Vm = 2VS
2π
2VS
Hence Vdc = ( cos α − 1)
2π
−Vm
When 'α ' is varied from 0 to π . Vdc varies from 0 to
π
DISADVANTAGES OF SINGLE PHASE HALF WAVE AC VOLTAGE
CONTROLLER.
• The output load voltage has a DC component because the two halves of the output
voltage waveform are not symmetrical with respect to ‘0’ level. The input supply
current waveform also has a DC component (average value) which can result in
the problem of core saturation of the input supply transformer.
• The half wave ac voltage controller using a single thyristor and a single diode
provides control on the thyristor only in one half cycle of the input supply. Hence
ac power flow to the load can be controlled only in one half cycle.
• Half wave ac voltage controller gives limited range of RMS output voltage
control. Because the RMS value of ac output voltage can be varied from a
maximum of 100% of VS at a trigger angle α = 0 to a low of 70.7% of VS at
α = π Radians .
These drawbacks of single phase half wave ac voltage controller can be over come
by using a single phase full wave ac voltage controller.
17
APPLICATIONS OF RMS VOLTAGE CONTROLLER
• Speed control of induction motor (polyphase ac induction motor).
• Heater control circuits (industrial heating).
• Welding power control.
• Induction heating.
• On load transformer tap changing.
• Lighting control in ac circuits.
• Ac magnet controls.
Problem
1. A single phase half-wave ac voltage controller has a load resistance R = 50Ω ,
input ac supply voltage is 230V RMS at 50Hz. The input supply transformer has a
turns ratio of 1:1. If the thyristor T1 is triggered at α = 600 . Calculate
• RMS output voltage.
• Output power.
• RMS load current and average load current.
• Input power factor.
• Average and RMS thyristor current.
Given,
V p = 230V , RMS primary supply voltage.
f = Input supply frequency = 50Hz.
RL = 50Ω
π
α = 600 = radians.
3
VS = RMS secondary voltage.
Vp Np 1
= = =1
VS NS 1
Therefore V p = VS = 230V
18
• RMS Value of Output (Load) Voltage VO( RMS )
2π
1
VO( RMS ) = ∫V
2
sin 2 ω t.d ( ω t )
2π
m
α
1 sin 2α
VO( RMS ) = VS ( 2π − α ) +
2π 2
1 π sin1200
VO( RMS ) = 230 2π − +
2π 3 2
1
VO( RMS ) = 230 [ 5.669] = 230 × 0.94986
2π
PO = 0.9545799 KW
PO
PF =
VS × I S
954.5799 W
∴ PF = = 0.9498
( 230 × 4.36939 ) W
19
• Average Output (Load) Voltage
1
2π
VO( dc ) = ∫ Vm sin ω t.d ( ω t )
2π α
We have obtained the expression for the average / DC output voltage as,
Vm
VO( dc ) = [ cos α − 1]
2π
2 × 230 325.2691193
VO( dc ) = cos ( 600 ) − 1 = [ 0.5 − 1]
2π 2π
325.2691193
VO( dc ) = [ −0.5] = −25.88409 Volts
2π
VO( dc ) −25.884094
I O( dc ) = = = −0.51768 Amps
RL 50
iT 1
Im
π 2π 3π
α ( 2π +α ω) t
α
α
I m π
IT ( Avg ) = ∫ sin ω t.d ( ω t )
2π α
20
Im π
IT ( Avg ) = ( − cos ω t )
2π α
Im
IT ( Avg ) = − cos ( π ) + cos α
2π
Im
IT ( Avg ) = [ 1 + cos α ]
2π
Vm
Where, I m = = Peak thyristor current = Peak load current.
RL
2 × 230
Im =
50
I m = 6.505382 Amps
Vm
IT ( Avg ) = [ 1 + cos α ]
2π RL
2 × 230
IT ( Avg ) = 1 + cos ( 600 )
2π × 50
2 × 230
IT ( Avg ) = [ 1 + 0.5]
100π
1 2 2
π
IT ( RMS ) = ∫ I m sin ω t.d ( ω t )
2π α
I m2 π ( 1 − cos 2ω t )
IT ( RMS ) = ∫ .d ( ω t )
2π α 2
I m2 π
π
IT ( RMS ) = ∫ d ( ω t ) − ∫ cos 2ω t.d ( ω t )
4π α α
1
π π
sin 2ω t
IT ( RMS ) = I m ( ω t ) −
4π α 2 α
21
1 sin 2π − sin 2α
IT ( RMS ) = I m ( π − α ) −
4π 2
1 sin 2α
IT ( RMS ) = I m ( π −α ) +
4π 2
Im 1 sin 2α
IT ( RMS ) = ( π −α ) +
2 2π 2
IT ( RMS ) = π − +
2 2π 3 2
1 2π 0.8660254
IT ( RMS ) = 4.6 3 +
2π 2
Single phase full wave ac voltage controller circuit using two SCRs or a single
triac is generally used in most of the ac control applications. The ac power flow to the
load can be controlled in both the half cycles by varying the trigger angle 'α ' .
The RMS value of load voltage can be varied by varying the trigger angle 'α ' .
The input supply current is alternating in the case of a full wave ac voltage controller and
due to the symmetrical nature of the input supply current waveform there is no dc
component of input supply current i.e., the average value of the input supply current is
zero.
A single phase full wave ac voltage controller with a resistive load is shown in the
figure below. It is possible to control the ac power flow to the load in both the half cycles
by adjusting the trigger angle 'α ' . Hence the full wave ac voltage controller is also
referred to as to a bi-directional controller.
22
Fig.: Single phase full wave ac voltage controller (Bi-directional Controller) using
SCRs
The thyristor T1 is forward biased during the positive half cycle of the input
supply voltage. The thyristor T1 is triggered at a delay angle of 'α ' ( 0 ≤ α ≤ π radians ) .
Considering the ON thyristor T1 as an ideal closed switch the input supply voltage
appears across the load resistor RL and the output voltage vO = vS during ω t = α to π
radians. The load current flows through the ON thyristor T1 and through the load resistor
RL in the downward direction during the conduction time of T1 from ω t = α to π
radians.
At ω t = π , when the input voltage falls to zero the thyristor current (which is
flowing through the load resistor RL ) falls to zero and hence T1 naturally turns off . No
current flows in the circuit during ω t = π to ( π + α ) .
The thyristor T2 is forward biased during the negative cycle of input supply and
when thyristor T2 is triggered at a delay angle ( π + α ) , the output voltage follows the
negative halfcycle of input from ω t = ( π + α ) to 2π . When T2 is ON, the load current
flows in the reverse direction (upward direction) through T2 during ω t = ( π + α ) to 2π
radians. The time interval (spacing) between the gate trigger pulses of T1 and T2 is kept at
π radians or 1800. At ω t = 2π the input supply voltage falls to zero and hence the load
current also falls to zero and thyristor T2 turn off naturally.
Instead of using two SCR’s in parallel, a Triac can be used for full wave ac voltage
control.
Fig.: Single phase full wave ac voltage controller (Bi-directional Controller) using
TRIAC
23
Fig: Waveforms of single phase full wave ac voltage controller
EQUATIONS
Input supply voltage
vS = Vm sin ω t = 2VS sin ω t ;
The RMS value of output voltage (load voltage) can be found using the expression
2π
1
VO2( RMS ) = V 2 L( RMS ) = ∫ v d ( ωt ) ;
2
2π
L
0
24
For a full wave ac voltage controller, we can see that the two half cycles of output
voltage waveforms are symmetrical and the output pulse time period (or output pulse
repetition time) is π radians. Hence we can also calculate the RMS output voltage by
using the expression given below.
π
1
π ∫0
V 2 L( RMS ) = Vm2 sin 2 ω t.dω t
2π
1
V 2
L ( RMS )
= ∫v
2
.d ( ω t ) ;
2π
L
0
Hence,
1
π 2π
∫ m( ) ( ) ∫ ( Vm sin ω t ) d ( ω t )
2 2
VL2( RMS ) = V sin ω t d ω t +
2π α π +α
1 2π 2 2π
= m ∫
V sin ω t .d ( ω t ) + V 2
∫ sin2 ω t.d ( ω t )
2π
m
α π +α
Vm 2 π 1 − cos 2ω t
2π
1 − cos 2ω t
= ∫ d ( ω t ) + ∫ d ( ωt )
2π α 2 π +α 2
Vm 2 π
π 2π 2π
= ∫ d ( ω t ) − ∫ cos 2ω t .d ( ω t ) + ∫ d ( ω t ) − ∫ cos 2ω t.d ( ω t )
2π × 2 α α π +α π +α
Vm 2 π 2π
sin 2ω t
π
sin 2ω t
2π
= ( ω t ) + ( ωt ) − −
4π α π +α 2 α 2 π +α
Vm 2
( π − α ) + ( π − α ) − ( sin 2π − sin 2α ) − ( sin 4π − sin 2 ( π + α ) )
1 1
=
4π 2 2
Vm 2 1 1
=
4π 2 ( π − α ) − 2 ( 0 − sin 2α ) − 2 ( 0 − sin 2 ( π + α ) )
Vm 2 sin 2α sin 2 ( π + α )
= 2 ( π − α ) + +
4π 2 2
Vm 2 sin 2α sin ( 2π + 2α )
= 2 ( π − α ) + +
4π 2 2
25
Vm 2 sin 2α 1
=
4π 2 ( π − α ) + 2 + 2 ( sin 2π .cos 2α + cos 2π .sin 2α )
Therefore,
Vm 2 sin 2α sin 2α
VL2( RMS ) =
4π 2 ( π − α ) + 2 + 2
Vm 2
= 2 ( π − α ) + sin 2α
4π
Vm 2
V 2
= ( 2π − 2α ) + sin 2α
L ( RMS )
4π
Vm
VL( RMS ) = ( 2π − 2α ) + sin 2α
2 π
Vm
VL( RMS ) = ( 2π − 2α ) + sin 2α
2 2π
Vm 1
VL( RMS ) = ( 2π − 2α ) + sin 2α
2 2π
Vm 1 sin 2α
VL( RMS ) =
2π 2 ( π − α ) + 2
2
Vm 1 sin 2α
VL( RMS ) = ( π −α ) +
2 π 2
1 sin 2α
VL( RMS ) = Vi ( RMS ) ( π −α ) +
π 2
1 sin 2α
VL( RMS ) = VS ( π −α ) +
π 2
Maximum RMS voltage will be applied to the load when α = 0 , in that case the
full sine wave appears across the load. RMS load voltage will be the same as the RMS
Vm
supply voltage = . When α is increased the RMS load voltage decreases.
2
26
Vm 1 sin 2 × 0
VL( RMS ) = ( π − 0) +
α =0 2 π 2
Vm 1
( π ) +
0
VL( RMS ) =
α =0 2 π 2
Vm
VL( RMS ) = = Vi ( RMS ) = VS
α =0 2
The output control characteristic for a single phase full wave ac voltage controller
with resistive load can be obtained by plotting the equation for VO( RMS )
The control characteristic is the plot of RMS output voltage VO( RMS ) versus the
trigger angle α ; which can be obtained by using the expression for the RMS output
voltage of a full-wave ac controller with resistive load.
1 sin 2α
VO( RMS ) = VS ( π −α ) + ;
π 2
Vm
Where VS = = RMS value of input supply voltage
2
600 π
3 (
; 2π
6 ) 0.896938 VS 89.69% VS
900 π
2 (
; 3π
6) 0.7071 VS 70.7% VS
1200 2π
3 (
; 4π
6 ) 0.44215 VS 44.21% VS
1500 5π
6 (
; 5π
6) 0.1698 VS 16.98% VS
1800 π (
; 6π
6) 0 VS 0 VS
27
V O ( R M S )
V S
0 . 6S V
0 . 2 S V
0 6 0 1 2 0 1 8 0
T r i g g e r αa n g l e in d e g r e e s
We can notice from the figure, that we obtain a much better output control
characteristic by using a single phase full wave ac voltage controller. The RMS output
voltage can be varied from a maximum of 100% VS at α = 0 to a minimum of ‘0’ at
α = 1800 . Thus we get a full range output voltage control by using a single phase full
wave ac voltage controller.
G 1
Ga t e
T r i g g e r K1
P u ls e G2
G e n e r a t o r
K 2
28
Fig.: Single phase full wave ac controller with common cathode
(Bidirectional controller in common cathode configuration)
Thyristor T1 and diode D1 are forward biased during the positive half cycle of
input supply. When thyristor T1 is triggered at a delay angle α , Thyristor T1 and diode
D1 conduct together from ω t = α to π during the positive half cycle.
The thyristor T2 and diode D2 are forward biased during the negative half cycle
of input supply, when trigged at a delay angle α , thyristor T2 and diode D2 conduct
together during the negative half cycle from ω t = ( π + α ) to 2π .
In this circuit as there is one single common cathode point, routing of the gate
trigger pulses to the thyristor gates of T1 and T2 is simpler and only one isolation circuit
is required.
But due to the need of two power diodes the costs of the devices increase. As
there are two power devices conducting at the same time the voltage drop across the ON
devices increases and the ON state conducting losses of devices increase and hence the
efficiency decreases.
D1 D3
+
T1
D4 D2
A C
S u p p l y RL
29
A single phase full wave ac controller can also be implemented with one thyristor
and four diodes connected in a full wave bridge configuration as shown in the above
figure. The four diodes act as a bridge full wave rectifier. The voltage across the thyristor
T1 and current through thyristor T1 are always unidirectional. When T1 is triggered at
ω t = α , during the positive half cycle ( 0 ≤ α ≤ π ) , the load current flows through D1 , T1 ,
diode D2 and through the load. With a resistive load, the thyristor current (flowing
through the ON thyristor T1 ) , the load current falls to zero at ω t = π , when the input
supply voltage decreases to zero at ω t = π , the thyristor naturally turns OFF.
In the negative half cycle, diodes D3 & D4 are forward biased during
ω t = π to 2π radians. When T1 is triggered at ω t = ( π + α ) , the load current flows in the
opposite direction (upward direction) through the load, through D3 , T1 and D4 . Thus D3 ,
D4 and T1 conduct together during the negative half cycle to supply the load power. When
the input supply voltage becomes zero at ω t = 2π , the thyristor current (load current)
falls to zero at ω t = 2π and the thyristor T1 naturally turns OFF. The waveforms and the
expression for the RMS output voltage are the same as discussed earlier for the single
phase full wave ac controller.
But however if there is a large inductance in the load circuit, thyristor T1 may not
be turned OFF at the zero crossing points, in every half cycle of input voltage and this
may result in a loss of output control. This would require detection of the zero crossing of
the load current waveform in order to ensure guaranteed turn off of the conducting
thyristor before triggering the thyristor in the next half cycle, so that we gain control on
the output voltage.
In this full wave ac controller circuit using a single thyristor, as there are three
power devices conducting together at the same time there is more conduction voltage
drop and an increase in the ON state conduction losses and hence efficiency is also
reduced.
The diode bridge rectifier and thyristor (or a power transistor) act together as a
bidirectional switch which is commercially available as a single device module and it has
relatively low ON state conduction loss. It can be used for bidirectional load current
control and for controlling the RMS output voltage.
In this section we will discuss the operation and performance of a single phase full
wave ac voltage controller with RL load. In practice most of the loads are of RL type. For
example if we consider a single phase full wave ac voltage controller controlling the
speed of a single phase ac induction motor, the load which is the induction motor winding
is an RL type of load, where R represents the motor winding resistance and L represents
the motor winding inductance.
30
A single phase full wave ac voltage controller circuit (bidirectional controller)
with an RL load using two thyristors T1 and T2 ( T1 and T2 are two SCRs) connected in
parallel is shown in the figure below. In place of two thyristors a single Triac can be used
to implement a full wave ac controller, if a suitable Traic is available for the desired RMS
load current and the RMS output voltage ratings.
The thyristor T1 is forward biased during the positive half cycle of input supply.
T1 during the positive half cycle of input supply. The output voltage across the load
follows the input supply voltage when T1 is ON. The load current iO flows through the
thyristor T1 and through the load in the downward direction. This load current pulse
flowing through T1 can be considered as the positive current pulse. Due to the inductance
in the load, the load current iO flowing through T1 would not fall to zero at ω t = π , when
the input supply voltage starts to become negative.
The thyristor T1 will continue to conduct the load current until all the inductive
energy stored in the load inductor L is completely utilized and the load current through T1
at which the load current falls to zero. The extinction angle β is measured from the point
of the beginning of the positive half cycle of input supply to the point where the load
current falls to zero.
31
The thyristor T1 conducts from ω t = α to β . The conduction angle of T1 is
δ = ( β − α ) , which depends on the delay angle α and the load impedance angle φ . The
waveforms of the input supply voltage, the gate trigger pulses of T1 and T2 , the thyristor
current, the load current and the load voltage waveforms appear as shown in the figure
below.
β is the extinction angle which depends upon the load inductance value.
32
Waveforms of single phase full wave ac voltage controller with RL load for α > φ .
Discontinuous load current operation occurs for α > φ and β < ( π + α ) ;
i.e., ( β − α ) < π , conduction angle < π .
Fig.: Waveforms of Input supply voltage, Load Current, Load Voltage and
Thyristor Voltage across T1
Note
• The RMS value of the output voltage and the load current may be varied by
varying the trigger angle α .
• This circuit, AC RMS voltage controller can be used to regulate the RMS voltage
across the terminals of an ac motor (induction motor). It can be used to control the
temperature of a furnace by varying the RMS output voltage.
33
• For very large load inductance ‘L’ the SCR may fail to commutate, after it is
triggered and the load voltage will be a full sine wave (similar to the applied input
supply voltage and the output control will be lost) as long as the gating signals are
applied to the thyristors T1 and T2 . The load current waveform will appear as a
full continuous sine wave and the load current waveform lags behind the output
sine wave by the load power factor angle φ .
Considering sinusoidal input supply voltage we can write the expression for the
supply voltage as
Let us assume that the thyristor T1 is triggered by applying the gating signal to T1
at ω t = α . The load current which flows through the thyristor T1 during ω t = α to β can
be found from the equation
di
L O + RiO = Vm sin ω t ;
dt
The solution of the above differential equation gives the general expression for the
output load current which is of the form
−t
Vm
iO = sin ( ω t − φ ) + A1e τ ;
Z
Z = R2 + ( ω L )
2
= Load impedance.
ωL
φ = tan −1 = Load impedance angle (power factor angle of load).
R
L
τ= = Load circuit time constant.
R
Therefore the general expression for the output load current is given by the
equation
−R
Vm t
iO = sin ( ω t − φ ) + A1e L ;
Z
34
The value of the constant A1 can be determined from the initial condition. i.e.
initial value of load current iO = 0 , at ω t = α . Hence from the equation for iO equating
iO to zero and substituting ω t = α , we get
−R
Vm t
iO = 0 = sin ( α − φ ) + A1e L
Z
−R
t −Vm
Therefore A1e L = sin ( α − φ )
Z
1 −Vm
A1 = −R Z sin ( α − φ )
t
e L
+R
t −Vm
A1 = e Z sin ( α − φ )
L
R( ωt )
−Vm
A1 = e Z sin ( α − φ )
ωL
( ) Rα
−V
A1 = e ω L m sin ( α − φ )
Z
Substituting the value of constant A1 from the above equation into the expression for iO ,
we obtain
− R R( α )
Vm t −V
iO = sin ( ω t − φ ) + e L e ω L m sin ( α − φ ) ;
Z Z
− R( ωt ) Rα( )
Vm −V
iO = sin ( ω t − φ ) + e ωL
e ω L m sin ( α − φ )
Z Z
−R
Vm ( ω t −α ) −Vm
iO = sin ( ω t − φ ) + e ω L sin ( α − φ )
Z Z
Therefore we obtain the final expression for the inductive load current of a single
phase full wave ac voltage controller with RL load as
Vm −R
( ω t −α )
iO = sin ( ω t − φ ) − sin ( α − φ ) e ωL
; Where α ≤ ω t ≤ β .
Z
35
The above expression also represents the thyristor current iT 1 , during the
conduction time interval of thyristor T1 from ω t = α to β .
Vm −R
( β −α )
iO = 0 = ( β − φ ) − ( α − φ ) ωL
sin sin e
Z
Vm
As ≠ 0 we can write
Z
−R
( β −α )
sin ( β − φ ) − sin ( α − φ ) e =0
ωL
36
waveform appears as a continuous sine wave identical to the input supply voltage
waveform for trigger angle α ≤ φ and the control on the output is lost.
vO vO = vS
Vm
π 2π 3π
0 φ ωt
φ φ φ
iO
Im
φ ωt
Fig.: Output voltage and output current waveforms for a single phase full wave ac
voltage controller with RL load for α ≤ φ
Thus we observe that for trigger angle α ≤ φ , the load current tends to flow
continuously and we have continuous load current operation, without any break in the
load current waveform and we obtain output voltage waveform which is a continuous
sinusoidal waveform identical to the input supply voltage waveform. We loose the control
on the output voltage for α ≤ φ as the output voltage becomes equal to the input supply
voltage and thus we obtain
V
VO( RMS ) = m = VS ; for α ≤ φ
2
Hence,
RMS output voltage = RMS input supply voltage for α ≤ φ
37
When α > O , the load current and load voltage waveforms become discontinuous
as shown in the figure above.
1
1 β 2
VO( RMS ) = ∫ Vm 2 sin 2 ω t.d ( ω t )
π α
1
Vm 2 β ( 1 − cos 2ω t ) 2
VO( RMS ) = ∫ d ( ωt )
π α 2
1
Vm 2 β β
2
1
V 2 β
sin 2ω t
β
2
VO( RMS ) = m ( ω t ) −
2π α 2 α
1
V 2 sin 2 β sin 2α 2
VO( RMS ) = m ( β − α ) − +
2π 2 2
1
1 sin 2α sin 2 β 2
VO( RMS ) = Vm ( β − α ) + −
2π 2 2
1
V 1 sin 2α sin 2 β 2
VO( RMS ) = m ( β − α ) + −
2 π 2 2
The RMS output voltage across the load can be varied by changing the trigger
α
angle .
For a purely resistive load L = 0 , therefore load power factor angle φ = 0 .
ωL
φ = tan −1 =0 ;
R
Extinction angle β = π radians = 1800
38
PERFORMANCE PARAMETERS OF A SINGLE PHASE FULL WAVE AC
VOLTAGE CONTROLLER WITH RESISTIVE LOAD
Vm 1 sin 2α Vm
• RMS Output Voltage VO( RMS ) = ( π −α ) + ; = VS = RMS
2 π 2 2
input supply voltage.
VO( RMS )
• I O( RMS ) = = RMS value of load current.
RL
iT 1
Im
π 2π 3π
α ( 2π +α ω) t
α
α
Im π I π
IT ( Avg ) = ∫ sin ω t.d ( ω t ) = m − cos ω t
2π α 2π α
Im I
IT ( Avg ) = [ − cos π + cos α ] = m [ 1 + cos α ]
2π 2π
39
• Maximum Average Thyristor Current, for α = 0 ,
I
IT ( Avg ) = m
π
Im 1 sin 2α
IT ( RMS ) = ( π −α ) +
2 2π 2
Im
IT ( RMS ) =
2
In the case of a single phase full wave ac voltage controller circuit using a Triac
with resistive load, the average thyristor current IT ( Avg ) = 0 . Because the Triac conducts in
both the half cycles and the thyristor current is alternating and we obtain a symmetrical
thyristor current waveform which gives an average value of zero on integration.
Vm −R
( ω t −α )
iO = iT1 = sin ( ω t − φ ) − sin ( α − φ ) e ωL
; for α ≤ ω t ≤ β
Z
Where,
Vm = 2VS = Maximum or peak value of input ac supply voltage.
Z = R2 + ( ω L )
2
= Load impedance.
ωL
φ = tan −1 = Load impedance angle (load power factor angle).
R
40
Thyristor Conduction Angle δ = ( β − α )
Maximum thyristor conduction angle δ = ( β − α ) = π radians = 1800 for α ≤ φ .
1 β Vm −R
( ω t −α )
IT ( Avg ) = ∫ ( ω − φ ) − ( α − φ ) d ( ωt )
ωL
sin t sin e
2π α Z
Vm
β β −R
( ω t −α )
IT ( Avg ) = ∫ sin ( ω t − φ ) .d ( ω t ) − ∫ sin ( α − φ ) e ω L d ( ωt )
2π Z α α
When a Triac is used in a single phase full wave ac voltage controller with RL
Im
type of load, then IT ( Avg ) = 0 and maximum IT ( RMS ) =
2
41
PROBLEMS
1. A single phase full wave ac voltage controller supplies an RL load. The input
supply voltage is 230V, RMS at 50Hz. The load has L = 10mH, R = 10 Ω , the
π
delay angle of thyristors T1 and T2 are equal, where α1 = α 2 = . Determine
3
T
a. Conduction angle of the thyristor 1 .
b. RMS output voltage.
c. The input power factor.
Comment on the type of operation.
Given
Vs = 230V , f = 50 Hz , L = 10mH , R = 10Ω , α = 600 ,
π
α = α1 = α 2 = radians, .
3
Z = Load Impedance = R 2 + ( ω L ) = ( 10 ) + ( ω L)
2 2 2
Vm 2 × 230
Im = = = 31.03179 A
Z 10.4818
−1 ω L
Load Impedance Angle φ = tan
R
π
φ = tan −1 = tan −1 ( 0.314159 ) = 17.440590
10
Trigger Angle α > φ . Hence the type of operation will be discontinuous load
current operation, we get
β < ( π +α )
42
Extinction Angle β is calculated by using the equation
−R
( β −α )
sin ( β − φ ) = sin ( α − φ ) e ωL
( α − φ ) = ( 60 − 17.44059 ) = 42.55940
−10
( β −α )
sin ( β − 17.44 ) = sin ( 42.55940 ) e π
0
β 0 ×π
180 → π radians, β Rad
0
=
1800
Assuming β = 1900 ;
β 0 × π 1900 × π
β Rad = = = 3.3161
1800 180
π
R.H.S: 0.676354 × e −3.183 3.3161− 3 = 4.94 × 10−4
Assuming β = 1830 ;
β 0 × π 1830 × π
β Rad = = = 3.19395
1800 180
π
( β − α ) = 3.19395 − = 2.14675
3
Assuming β ≈ 1800
β 0 × π 1800 × π
β Rad = = =π
1800 180
π 2π
( β − α ) = π − =
3 3
43
L.H.S: sin ( β − φ ) = sin ( 180 − 17.44 ) = 0.2997
π
R.H.S: 0.676354e −3.183 π − 3 = 8.6092 × 10−4
Assuming β = 1960
β 0 × π 1960 × π
β Rad = = = 3.420845
1800 180
Assuming β = 197 0
β 0 × π 1970 × π
β Rad = = = 3.43829
1800 180
π
R.H.S: 0.676354e −3.183 3.43829− 3 = 4.950386476 ×10−4
Assuming β = 197.420
β 0 × π 197.42 × π
β Rad = = = 3.4456
1800 180
π
R.H.S: 0.676354e −3.183 3.4456− 3 = 3.2709 ×10−4
44
Input Power Factor
PO
PF =
VS × I S
PO 3901.716
PF = = = 0.8588
VS × I S 230 × 19.7527
2. A single phase full wave controller has an input voltage of 120 V (RMS) and a
load resistance of 6 ohm. The firing angle of thyristor is π 2 . Find
a. RMS output voltage
b. Power output
c. Input power factor
d. Average and RMS thyristor current.
Solution
π
α= = 900 , VS = 120 V, R = 6Ω
2
1
1 π sin180 2
VO = 120 π − +
π 2 2
VO = 84.85 Volts
VO 84.85
IO = = = 14.14 A
R 6
Load Power
PO = I O2 × R
45
Input Current is same as Load Current
Therefore I S = IO = 14.14 Amps
Input Supply Volt-Amp = VS I S = 120 ×14.14 = 1696.8 VA
Therefore
Load Power 1200
Input Power Factor = = = 0.707 ( lag )
Input Volt-Amp 1696.8
π
1
Vm sin ω t.d ( ω t )
2π R α∫
IT ( Avg ) =
Vm
= ( 1 + cos α ) ; Vm = 2VS
2π R
2 × 120
= [ 1 + cos 90] = 4.5 A
2π × 6
π
1 Vm2 sin 2 ω t
d ( ωt )
2π α∫
IT ( RMS ) =
R2
Vm2 π ( 1 − cos 2ω t )
d ( ωt )
2π R 2 α∫
=
2
1
V 1 sin 2α 2
= m π − α +
2R π 2
1
2VS 1 sin 2α 2
= π − α +
2R π 2
1
2 × 120 1 π sin180 2
= π − + = 10 Amps
2 × 6 π 2 2
46
3. A single phase half wave ac regulator using one SCR in anti-parallel with a diode
feeds 1 kW, 230 V heater. Find load power for a firing angle of 450.
Solution
π
α = 450 = , VS = 230 V ; PO = 1KW = 1000W
4
At standard rms supply voltage of 230V, the heater dissipates 1KW of output
power
Therefore
VO × VO VO2
PO = VO × IO = =
R R
Resistance of heater
V 2 ( 230 )
2
R= O = = 52.9Ω
PO 1000
1
1 π sin 90 2
VO = 230 2π − + = 224.7157 Volts
2π 4 2
4. Find the RMS and average current flowing through the heater shown in figure.
The delay angle of both the SCRs is 450.
S C R 1 io
+
1 φ- 1 k W , 2 2 0 V
2 2 0 V S C R 2
h e a t e r
a c
47
Solution
π
α = 450 = , VS = 220 V
4
Resistance of heater
V 2 ( 220 )
2
R= = = 48.4Ω
R 1000
1 π sin 90
VO = 220 π − +
π 4 2
1 π 1
VO = 220 π − + = 209.769 Volts
π 4 2
VO 209.769
RMS current flowing through heater = = = 4.334 Amps
R 48.4
5. A single phase voltage controller is employed for controlling the power flow from
220 V, 50 Hz source into a load circuit consisting of R = 4 Ω and ω L = 6 Ω .
Calculate the following
a. Control range of firing angle
b. Maximum value of RMS load current
c. Maximum power and power factor
d. Maximum value of average and RMS thyristor current.
Solution
For control of output power, minimum angle of firing angle α is equal to the
load impedance angle θ
α = θ , load angle
ωL −1 6
θ = tan −1 = tan = 56.3
0
R 4
48
Maximum value of RMS load current occurs when α = θ = 56.30 . At this value
of α the Maximum value of RMS load current
VS 220
IO = = = 30.5085 Amps
Z 4 2 + 62
PO 3723.077
Power Factor = = = 0.5547
Input VA 6711.87
Vm −R
( ω t −α )
iO = iT1 = sin ( ω t − θ ) − sin ( α − θ ) e
ωL
Note:
Z
At α = 0 ,
Vm
iT1 = iO = sin ( ω t − θ )
Z
Vm π +α
IT ( Avg ) = − cos ( ω t − θ ) α
2π Z
Vm
IT ( Avg ) = − cos ( π + α − θ ) + cos ( α − θ )
2π Z
But α = θ ,
Vm V V
IT ( Avg ) = − cos ( π ) + cos ( 0 ) = m [ 2] = m
2π Z 2π Z πZ
Vm 2 × 220
∴ IT ( Avg ) = = = 13.7336 Amps
π Z π 4 2 + 62
π +α 2
1 Vm
ITM = ∫ sin ( ω t − θ ) d ( ω t )
2π α Z
49
Vm2 π +α 1 − cos ( 2ω t − 2θ )
d ( ω t )
2π Z 2 α∫
ITM =
2
π +α
Vm2 sin ( 2ω t − 2θ )
ITM = ω t −
4π Z 2 2 α
Vm2
ITM = [ π + α − α − 0]
4π Z 2
Vm 2 × 220
ITM = = = 21.57277 Amps
2 Z 2 4 2 + 62
50
CONTROLLED RECTIFIERS
(Line Commutated AC to DC converters)
INTRODUCTION TO CONTROLLED RECTIFIERS
Controlled rectifiers are line commutated ac to dc power converters which are
used to convert a fixed voltage, fixed frequency ac power supply into variable dc output
voltage.
+
A C L in e D C O u t p u t
In p u t C o m m u t a t e dV
V o lt a g e 0 (d c )
C o n v e rt e r
-
The input supply fed to a controlled rectifier is ac supply at a fixed rms voltage
and at a fixed frequency. We can obtain variable dc output voltage by using controlled
rectifiers. By employing phase controlled thyristors in the controlled rectifier circuits we
can obtain variable dc output voltage and variable dc (average) output current by varying
the trigger angle (phase angle) at which the thyristors are triggered. We obtain a uni-
directional and pulsating load current waveform, which has a specific average value.
The thyristors are forward biased during the positive half cycle of input supply
and can be turned ON by applying suitable gate trigger pulses at the thyristor gate leads.
The thyristor current and the load current begin to flow once the thyristors are triggered
(turned ON) say at ω t = α . The load current flows when the thyristors conduct from
ω t = α to β . The output voltage across the load follows the input supply voltage
through the conducting thyristor. At ω t = β , when the load current falls to zero, the
thyristors turn off due to AC line (natural) commutation.
In some bridge controlled rectifier circuits the conducting thyristor turns off, when
the other thyristor is (other group of thyristors are) turned ON.
The thyristor remains reverse biased during the negative half cycle of input
supply. The type of commutation used in controlled rectifier circuits is referred to AC line
commutation or Natural commutation or AC phase commutation.
When the input ac supply voltage reverses and becomes negative during the
negative half cycle, the thyristor becomes reverse biased and hence turns off. There are
several types of power converters which use ac line commutation. These are referred to as
line commutated converters.
51
All these power converters operate from ac power supply at a fixed rms input
supply voltage and at a fixed input supply frequency. Hence they use ac line commutation
for turning off the thyristors after they have been triggered ON by the gating signals.
Some years back ac to dc power conversion was achieved using motor generator
sets, mercury arc rectifiers, and thyratorn tubes. The modern ac to dc power converters
are designed using high power, high current thyristors and presently most of the ac-dc
power converters are thyristorised power converters. The thyristor devices are phase
controlled to obtain a variable dc output voltage across the output load terminals. The
52
phase controlled thyristor converter uses ac line commutation (natural commutation) for
commutating (turning off) the thyristors that have been turned ON.
The phase controlled converters are simple and less expensive and are widely used
in industrial applications for industrial dc drives. These converters are classified as two
quadrant converters if the output voltage can be made either positive or negative for a
given polarity of output load current. There are also single quadrant ac-dc converters
where the output voltage is only positive and cannot be made negative for a given polarity
of output current. Of course single quadrant converters can also be designed to provide
only negative dc output voltage.
The two quadrant converter operation can be achieved by using fully controlled
bridge converter circuit and for single quadrant operation we use a half controlled bridge
converter.
• Half wave controlled rectifier which uses a single thyristor device (which
provides output control only in one half cycle of input ac supply, and it provides
low dc output).
53
R = RL = Load Resistance
A single phase half wave thyristor converter which is used for ac-dc power
conversion is shown in the above figure. The input ac supply is obtained from a main
supply transformer to provide the desired ac supply voltage to the thyristor converter
depending on the output dc voltage required. vP represents the primary input ac supply
voltage. vS represents the secondary ac supply voltage which is the output of the
transformer secondary.
During the positive half cycle of input supply when the upper end of the
transformer secondary is at a positive potential with respect to the lower end, the
thyristor anode is positive with respect to its cathode and the thyristor is in a forward
biased state. The thyristor is triggered at a delay angle of ω t = α , by applying a suitable
gate trigger pulse to the gate lead of thyristor. When the thyristor is triggered at a delay
angle of ω t = α , the thyristor conducts and assuming an ideal thyristor, the thyristor
behaves as a closed switch and the input supply voltage appears across the load when the
thyristor conducts from ω t = α to π radians. Output voltage vO = vS , when the thyristor
conducts from ω t = α to π .
For a purely resistive load, the load current iO (output current) that flows when
the thyristor T1 is on, is given by the expression
v
iO = O , for α ≤ ω t ≤ π
RL
The output load current waveform is similar to the output load voltage waveform
during the thyristor conduction time from α to π . The output current and the output
voltage waveform are in phase for a resistive load. The load current increases as the input
π
supply voltage increases and the maximum load current flows at ω t = , when the input
2
supply voltage is at its maximum value.
The maximum value (peak value) of the load current is calculated as
V
iO( max ) = I m = m .
RL
54
Note that when the thyristor conducts ( T1 is on) during ω t = α to π , the thyristor
current iT 1 , the load current iO through RL and the source current iS flowing through the
transformer secondary winding are all one and the same.
Hence we can write
v V sin ω t
iS = iT 1 = iO = O = m ; for α ≤ ω t ≤ π
R R
I m is the maximum (peak) value of the load current that flows through the
transformer secondary winding, through T1 and through the load resistor RL at the instant
π
ω t = , when the input supply voltage reaches its maximum value.
2
When the input supply voltage decreases the load current decreases. When the
supply voltage falls to zero at ω t = π , the thyristor and the load current also falls to zero
at ω t = π . Thus the thyristor naturally turns off when the current flowing through it falls
to zero at ω t = π .
During the negative half cycle of input supply when the supply voltage reverses
and becomes negative during ω t = π to 2π radians, the anode of thyristor is at a negative
potential with respect to its cathode and as a result the thyristor is reverse biased and
hence it remains cut-off (in the reverse blocking mode). The thyristor cannot conduct
during its reverse biased state between ω t = π to 2π . An ideal thyristor under reverse
biased condition behaves as an open switch and hence the load current and load voltage
are zero during ω t = π to 2π . The maximum or peak reverse voltage that appears across
the thyristor anode and cathode terminals is Vm .
The trigger angle α (delay angle or the phase angle α ) is measured from the
beginning of each positive half cycle to the time instant when the gate trigger pulse is
applied. The thyristor conduction angle is from α to π , hence the conduction angle
δ = ( π − α ) . The maximum conduction angle is π radians (1800) when the trigger angle
α = 0.
The waveforms shows the input ac supply voltage across the secondary winding
of the transformer which is represented as vS , the output voltage across the load, the
output (load) current, and the thyristor voltage waveform that appears across the anode
and cathode terminals.
55
Fig: Waveforms of single phase half-wave controlled rectifier with resistive load
EQUATIONS
vs = Vm sin ω t = the ac supply voltage across the transformer secondary.
Vm
VS = = RMS value of input ac supply voltage across transformer secondary.
2
56
When the thyristor is triggered at ω t = α (an ideal thyristor behaves as a closed
switch) and hence the output voltage follows the input supply voltage.
vO
iO = iL = = Load current for ω t = α to π , when the thyristor is on.
R
π
1
Vm sin ω t.d ( ω t )
2π α∫
VO( dc ) = Vdc =
π
1
Vm sin ω t.d ( ω t )
2π α∫
VO( dc ) =
Vm π
sin ω t.d ( ω t )
2π α∫
VO( dc ) =
Vm π
VO( dc ) = − cos ω t
2π α
Vm
VO( dc ) = [ − cos π + cos α ] ; cos π = −1
2π
Vm
VO( dc ) = [ 1 + cos α ] ; Vm = 2VS
2π
The maximum average (dc) output voltage is obtained when α = 0 and the
V
maximum dc output voltage Vdc( max ) = Vdm = m .
π
The average dc output voltage can be varied by varying the trigger angle α from
0 to a maximum of 180 ( π radians ) .
0
We can plot the control characteristic, which is a plot of dc output voltage versus
the trigger angle α by using the equation for VO( dc ) .
57
CONTROL CHARACTERISTIC OF SINGLE PHASE HALF WAVE PHASE
CONTROLLED RECTIFIER WITH RESISTIVE LOAD
Vm
VO( dc ) = [ 1 + cos α ]
2π
We can obtain the control characteristic by plotting the expression for the dc
output voltage as a function of trigger angle α
V O ( d c )
V d m
0 . 6 d Vm
0 . 2 d mV
0 6 0 1 2 0 1 8 0
T r i g g e r αa n g l e in d e g r e e s
Normalizing the dc output voltage with respect to Vdm , the normalized output
voltage
VO ( dc ) Vdc
Vdcn = =
Vdc( max ) Vdm
58
Vm
Vdc ( 1 + cos α )
Vdcn = Vn = = 2π
Vdm Vm
π
Vdc 1
Vn = = ( 1 + cos α ) = Vdcn
Vdm 2
1 2π
VO( RMS ) = ∫0 v 2
.d ( ω t )
2π
O
1
1 π 2
VO( RMS ) = ∫ Vm2 sin 2 ω t.d ( ω t )
2π α
1 − cos 2ω t
By substituting sin ω t =
2
, we get
2
1
1 π ( 1 − cos 2ω t ) .d ω t 2
VO( RMS ) = ∫ Vm2 ( )
2π α 2
1
V 2 π
2
VO( RMS ) =
4π
m
∫ ( 1 − cos 2ω t ) .d ( ω t )
α
1
Vm2 π π
2
VO( RMS ) = ∫ d ( ω t ) − ∫ cos 2ω t.d ( ω t )
4π α α
Vm 1 π
sin 2ω t
π
2
VO( RMS ) = ( ω t ) −
2 π α 2
α
59
Hence we get,
1
V 1 sin 2α 2
VO( RMS ) = m π ( π − α ) +
2 2
1
V sin 2α 2
VO( RMS ) = m ( π −α ) +
2 π 2
Where
VO( dc ) = Vdc = average or dc value of output (load) voltage.
Output ac power
PO( dc ) PO( dc )
Efficiency η = ; % Efficiency η = × 100
PO( ac ) PO( ac )
• The ac component or the ripple component Vac = Vr ( rms ) = RMS value of all
the ac ripple components.
Therefore
Vac = Vr ( rms ) = VO2( RMS ) − VO2( dc )
60
Form Factor (FF) which is a measure of the shape of the output voltage is given by
The Ripple Factor (RF) which is a measure of the ac ripple content in the output
voltage waveform. The output voltage ripple factor defined for the output voltage
waveform is given by
Vr ( rms ) Vac
rv = RF = =
VO( dc ) Vdc
2
VO2( RMS ) − VO2( dc ) VO( RMS )
rv = = −1
VO( dc ) VO ( dc )
Therefore
rv = FF 2 − 1
Current Ripple Factor defined for the output (load) current waveform is given by
I r ( rms ) I ac
ri = =
I O( dc ) I dc
Some times the peak to peak output ripple voltage is also considered to express
the peak to peak output ripple voltage as
The peak to peak ac ripple load current is the difference between the maximum
and the minimum values of the output load current.
I r ( pp ) = IO ( max ) − IO ( min )
PO( dc )
TUF =
VS × I S
Where
VS = RMS value of transformer secondary output voltage (RMS supply
voltage at the secondary)
61
IS = RMS value of transformer secondary current (RMS line or supply
current).
ωL
∴ φ = tan −1 for an RL load
R
DF = Cosφ
1 1
I −I
2 2 I 2 2
2
HF = = − 1
S S1 S
2
I
S1 I
S 1
Where
I S = RMS value of input supply current.
I S1 = RMS value of fundamental component of the input supply current.
62
Input Power Factor (PF)
VS I S 1 I
PF = cos φ = S 1 cos φ
VS I S IS
63
The thyristor T1 is forward biased during the positive half cycle of input supply.
T1 during the positive half cycle of input supply. The output voltage across the load
follows the input supply voltage when T1 is ON. The load current iO flows through the
thyristor T1 and through the load in the downward direction. This load current pulse
flowing through T1 can be considered as the positive current pulse. Due to the inductance
in the load, the load current iO flowing through T1 would not fall to zero at ω t = π , when
the input supply voltage starts to become negative. A phase shift appears between the
load voltage and the load current waveforms, due to the load inductance.
The thyristor T1 will continue to conduct the load current until all the inductive
energy stored in the load inductor L is completely utilized and the load current through T1
at which the load current falls to zero. The extinction angle β is measured from the point
of the beginning of the positive half cycle of input supply to the point where the load
current falls to zero.
The thyristor T1 conducts from ω t = α to β . The conduction angle of T1 is
δ = ( β − α ) , which depends on the delay angle α and the load impedance angle φ . The
waveforms of the input supply voltage, the gate trigger pulse of T1 , the thyristor current,
the load current and the load voltage waveforms appear as shown in the figure below.
i1 = iO = iS
64
Fig.: Input supply voltage & Thyristor current waveforms
β is the extinction angle which depends upon the load inductance value.
Fig.: Output (load) voltage waveform of a single phase half wave controlled
rectifier with RL load
Let us assume that the thyristor T1 is triggered by applying the gating signal to T1
at ω t = α . The load current which flows through the thyristor T1 during ω t = α to β can
be found from the equation
di
L O + RiO = Vm sin ω t ;
dt
The solution of the above differential equation gives the general expression for the
output load current which is of the form
−t
Vm
iO = sin ( ω t − φ ) + A1e τ ;
Z
Z = R2 + ( ω L )
2
= Load impedance.
65
ωL
φ = tan −1 = Load impedance angle (power factor angle of load).
R
L
τ= = Load circuit time constant.
R
Therefore the general expression for the output load current is given by the
equation
−R
V t
iO = m sin ( ω t − φ ) + A1e L ;
Z
The value of the constant A1 can be determined from the initial condition. i.e.
initial value of load current iO = 0 , at ω t = α . Hence from the equation for iO equating
iO to zero and substituting ω t = α , we get
−R
Vm t
iO = 0 = sin ( α − φ ) + A1e L
Z
−R
t −Vm
Therefore A1e L
= sin ( α − φ )
Z
1 −Vm
A1 = −R Z sin ( α − φ )
t
e L
+R
t −Vm
A1 = e Z sin ( α − φ )
L
R( ωt )
−Vm
A1 = e Z sin ( α − φ )
ωL
R( α )
−V
A1 = e ω L m sin ( α − φ )
Z
Substituting the value of constant A1 from the above equation into the expression for iO ,
we obtain
− R R( α )
Vm t −V
iO = sin ( ω t − φ ) + e L e ω L m sin ( α − φ ) ;
Z Z
− R( ωt ) Rα( )
Vm −V
iO = sin ( ω t − φ ) + e ωL
e ω L m sin ( α − φ )
Z Z
66
−R
Vm ( ω t −α ) −Vm
iO = sin ( ω t − φ ) + e ω L Z sin ( α − φ )
Z
Therefore we obtain the final expression for the inductive load current of a single
phase half wave controlled rectifier with RL load as
Vm −R
( ω t −α )
iO = sin ( ω t − φ ) − sin ( α − φ ) e ωL
; Where α ≤ ω t ≤ β .
Z
The above expression also represents the thyristor current iT 1 , during the
conduction time interval of thyristor T1 from ω t = α to β .
Vm −R
( β −α )
iO = 0 = sin ( β − φ ) − sin ( α − φ ) e
ωL
Z
Vm
As ≠ 0 , we can write
Z
−R
( β −α )
sin ( β − φ ) − sin ( α − φ ) e ωL
=0
β is the extinction angle which depends upon the load inductance value.
Conduction angle δ increases as α is decreased for a specific value of β .
67
Equations
vs = Vm sin ω t = Input supply voltage
Vm −R
( ω t −α )
iO = sin ( ω t − φ ) − sin ( α − φ ) e Where α ≤ ω t ≤ β .
ωL
;
Z
−R
( β −α )
sin ( β − φ ) = sin ( α − φ ) e ω L
1
α β 2π
VO( dc ) = VL = ∫ vO .d ( ω t ) + ∫ vO .d ( ω t ) + ∫ vO .d ( ω t ) ;
2π 0 α β
1
β
∴ VO( dc ) = VL = ∫ vO .d ( ω t ) ; vO = Vm sin ω t for ω t = α to β
2π α
1
β
VO( dc ) = VL = ∫ Vm sin ω t.d ( ω t )
2π α
Vm Vm
β
VO( dc ) = VL = − cos ω t = ( cos α − cos β )
2π α 2π
Vm
∴ VO( dc ) = VL = ( cos α − cos β )
2π
Note: During the period ω t = π to β , we can see from the output load voltage waveform
that the instantaneous output voltage is negative and this reduces the average or the dc
output voltage when compared to a purely resistive load.
68
Average DC Load Current
VO( dc ) Vm
I O( dc ) = I L ( Avg ) = = ( cos α − cos β )
RL 2π RL
V s V m
S u p p l y v o l t a g e
0 π 2 π 3 π ωt
α
iG
G a t e p u l- s Vm e s
0 ωt
α
iO L o a d c u r r e n t
α
ω t =β
0 ωt
α π β 2 π
β 2π + α
V O L o a d v o l t a g e
0 π 2 π 3 π ωt
α
69
At ω t = π , the source voltage vS falls to zero and as vS becomes negative, the
free wheeling diode is forward biased. The stored energy in the inductance maintains the
load current flow through R, L, and the FWD. Also, as soon as the FWD is forward
biased, at ω t = π , the SCR becomes reverse biased, the current through it becomes zero
and the SCR turns off. During the period ω t = π to β , the load current flows through
FWD (free wheeling load current) and decreases exponentially towards zero at ω t = β .
Also during this free wheeling time period the load is shorted by the conducting
FWD and the load voltage is almost zero, if the forward voltage drop across the
conducting FWD is neglected. Thus there is no negative region in the load voltage wave
form. This improves the average output voltage.
V
The average output voltage Vdc = m [ 1 + cos α ] , which is the same as that of a
2π
purely resistive load. The output voltage across the load appears similar to the output
voltage of a purely resistive load.
The following points are to be noted.
• If the inductance value is not very large, the energy stored in the
inductance is able to maintain the load current only upto ω t = β ,
where π < β < 2π , well before the next gate pulse and the load
current tends to become discontinuous.
• During the conduction period α to π , the load current is carried by
the SCR and during the free wheeling period π to β , the load current
is carried by the free wheeling diode.
• The value of β depends on the value of R and L and the forward
resistance of the FWD. Generally π < β < 2π .
If the value of the inductance is very large, the load current does not decrease to
zero during the free wheeling time interval and the load current waveform appears as
shown in the figure.
i0
t1 t2 t3 t4
S C R F W D S C R F W D
0 ωt
α π 2 π 2 π +α 3 π
Fig. : Waveform of Load Current in Single Phase Half Wave Controlled Rectifier
with a Large Inductance and FWD
70
During the periods t1 , t3 ,..... the SCR carries the load current and during the periods
t2 , t4 ,..... the FWD carries the load current.
It is to be noted that
• The load current becomes continuous and the load current does not fall
to zero for large value of load inductance.
• The ripple in the load current waveform (the amount of variation in the
output load current) decreases.
iO
R
+
~ vS
L
vO
−
+
− E
In the half wave controlled rectifier circuit shown in the figure, the load circuit
consists of a dc source ‘E’ in addition to resistance and inductance. When the thyristor is
in the cut-off state, the current in the circuit is zero and the cathode will be at a voltage
equal to the dc voltage in the load circuit i.e. the cathode potential will be equal to ‘E’.
The thyristor will be forward biased for anode supply voltage greater than the load dc
voltage.
When the supply voltage is less than the dc voltage ‘E’ in the circuit the thyristor
is reverse biased and hence the thyristor cannot conduct for supply voltage less than the
load circuit dc voltage.
The value of ω t at which the supply voltage increases and becomes equal to the
load circuit dc voltage can be calculated by using the equation Vm sin ω t = E . If we
assume the value of ω t is equal to γ then we can write Vm sin γ = E . Therefore γ is
−1 E
calculated as γ = sin .
Vm
For trigger angle α < γ , the thyristor conducts only from ω t = γ to β .
71
vO V m
L o a d v o l t a g e
π 2 π ωt
0 γ α 2 π + α
iO
α δ
Im
L o a d c u r r e n t
0 ωt
α β 2 π + α 2 π + β
β
Equations
vS = Vm sin ω t = Input supply voltage .
The general expression for the output load current can be written as
−t
Vm E
iO = sin ( ω t − φ ) − + Ae τ
Z R
Where
Z = R 2 + ( ω L ) = Load Impedance
2
ωL
φ = tan −1 = Load impedance angle
R
L
τ= = Load circuit time constant
R
The general expression for the output load current can be written as
72
−R
Vm E t
iO = sin ( ω t − φ ) − + Ae L
Z R
To find the value of the constant ‘A’ apply the initial condition at ω t = α , load
current iO = 0 . Equating the general expression for the load current to zero at ω t = α , we
get
−R α
Vm E ×
iO = 0 = sin ( α − φ ) − + Ae L ω
Z R
Substituting the value of the constant ‘A’ in the expression for the load current,
we get the complete expression for the output load current as
−R
Vm E E V ( ωt −α )
iO = sin ( ω t − φ ) − + − m sin ( α − φ ) e ω L
Z R R Z
The Extinction angle β can be calculated from the final condition that the output
current iO = 0 at ω t = β . By using the above expression we get,
−R
Vm E E V ( β −α )
iO = 0 = sin ( β − φ ) − + − m sin ( α − φ ) e ω L
Z R R Z
1
α β 2π
VO( dc ) = ∫ vO .d ( ω t ) + ∫ vO .d ( ω t ) + ∫ vO .d ( ω t )
2π 0 α β
1
α β 2π
VO( dc ) = ∫ E.d ( ω t ) + ∫ Vm sin ω t + ∫ E.d ( ω t )
2π 0 α β
1 α β 2π
VO( dc ) = E ( ωt ) + Vm ( − cos ω t ) + E ( ωt )
2π 0 α β
73
1
VO( dc ) = E ( α − 0 ) − Vm ( cos β − cos α ) + E ( 2π − β )
2π
Vm E
VO( dc ) = ( cos α − cos β ) + ( 2π − β + α )
2π 2π
Vm 2π − ( β − α )
VO( dc ) = ( cos α − cos β ) + E
2π 2π
1 2
2π
VO( RMS ) = ∫ vO .d ( ω t )
2π 0
Single phase half wave controlled rectifiers are rarely used in practice as they give
low dc output and low dc output power. They are only of theoretical interest.
The above disadvantages of a single phase half wave controlled rectifier can be
over come by using a full wave controlled rectifier circuit. Most of the practical converter
circuits use full wave controlled rectifiers.
74
75
SINGLE PHASE FULL WAVE CONTROLLED RECTIFIER USING A CENTER
TAPPED TRANSFORMER
iS T 1
A
+
vO
vS
R L
A C O iO
S u p p l y
F W D
B
T 2
vS = Supply Voltage across the upper half of the transformer secondary winding
vS = vAO = Vm sin ω t
vBO = −vAO = −Vm sin ω t = supply voltage across the lower half of the transformer
secondary winding.
This type of full wave controlled rectifier requires a center tapped transformer and
two thyristors T1 and T2 . The input supply is fed through the mains supply transformer,
the primary side of the transformer is connected to the ac line voltage which is available
(normally the primary supply voltage is 230V RMS ac supply voltage at 50Hz supply
frequency in India). The secondary side of the transformer has three lines and the center
point of the transformer (center line) is used as the reference point to measure the input
and output voltages.
The upper half of the secondary winding and the thyristor T1 along with the load
act as a half wave controlled rectifier, the lower half of the secondary winding and the
thyristor T2 with the common load act as the second half wave controlled rectifier so as to
produce a full wave load voltage waveform.
There are two types of operations possible.
Discontinuous load current operation, which occurs for a purely resistive
load or an RL load with low inductance value.
Continuous load current operation which occurs for an RL type of load
with large load inductance.
76
thyristor T1 is forward biased and it is triggered at a delay angle of α . The load current
flows through the thyristor T1 , through the load and through the upper part of the
secondary winding, during the period α to β , when the thyristor T1 conducts.
The output voltage across the load follows the input supply voltage that appears
across the upper part of the secondary winding from ω t = α to β . The load current
through the thyristor T1 decreases and drops to zero at ω t = β , where β > π for RL type
of load and the thyristor T1 naturally turns off at ω t = β .
vO V m
ωt
0
α
iO
α
β
ωt
0 π β
α 2 π 3 π
(π + α ( π) + β )
During the negative half cycle of the input supply the voltage at the supply line
‘A’ becomes negative whereas the voltage at line ‘B’ (at the lower side of the secondary
winding) becomes positive with respect to the center point ‘O’. The thyristor T2 is
forward biased during the negative half cycle and it is triggered at a delay angle of
( π + α ) . The current flows through the thyristor T2 , through the load, and through the
lower part of the secondary winding when T2 conducts during the negative half cycle the
load is connected to the lower half of the secondary winding when T2 conducts.
For purely resistive loads when L = 0, the extinction angle β = π . The load
current falls to zero at ω t = β = π , when the input supply voltage falls to zero at ω t = π .
The load current and the load voltage waveforms are in phase and there is no phase shift
between the load voltage and the load current waveform in the case of a purely resistive
load.
For low values of load inductance the load current would be discontinuous and the
extinction angle β > π but β < ( π + α ) .
For large values of load inductance the load current would be continuous and does
not fall to zero. The thyristor T1 conducts from α to ( π + α ) , until the next thyristor T2
is triggered. When T2 is triggered at ω t = ( π + α ) , the thyristor T1 will be reverse biased
and hence T1 turns off.
77
TO DERIVE AN EXPRESSION FOR THE DC OUTPUT VOLTAGE OF A
SINGLE PHASE FULL WAVE CONTROLLED RECTIFIER WITH RL LOAD
(WITHOUT FREE WHEELING DIODE (FWD))
The average or dc output voltage of a full-wave controlled rectifier can be
calculated by finding the average value of the output voltage waveform over one output
T
cycle (i.e., π radians) and note that the output pulse repetition time is seconds where
2
1
T represents the input supply time period and T = ; where f = input supply frequency.
f
Assuming the load inductance to be small so that β > π , β < ( π + α ) we obtain
discontinuous load current operation. The load current flows through T1 form
ω t = α to β , where α is the trigger angle of thyristor T1 and β is the extinction angle
where the load current through T1 falls to zero at ω t = β . Therefore the average or dc
output voltage can be obtained by using the expression
β
2
VO( dc ) = Vdc = ∫ vO .d ( ω t )
2π ω t =α
β
1
vO .d ( ω t )
π ω t∫=α
VO( dc ) = Vdc =
1
β
VO( dc ) = Vdc = ∫ Vm sin ω t.d ( ω t )
π α
Vm β
VO( dc ) = Vdc = − cos ω t
π α
Vm
VO( dc ) = Vdc = ( cos α − cos β )
π
Vm
Therefore VO( dc ) = ( cos α − cos β ) , for discontinuous load current operation,
π
π < β < ( π +α ) .
When the load inductance is small and negligible that is L ≈ 0 , the extinction
angle β = π radians . Hence the average or dc output voltage for resistive load is
obtained as
Vm
VO( dc ) = ( cos α − cos π ) ; cos π = −1
π
Vm
VO( dc ) =
π
( cosα − ( −1) )
78
Vm
VO( dc ) = ( 1 + cos α ) ; for resistive load, when L ≈ 0
π
When the Free wheeling diode (FWD) is connected across the load
When T1 is triggered at ω t = α , during the positive half cycle of the input supply
the FWD is reverse biased during the time period ω t = α to π . FWD remains reverse
biased and cut-off from ω t = α to π . The load current flows through the conducting
thyristor T1 , through the RL load and through upper half of the transformer secondary
winding during the time period α to π .
At ω t = π , when the input supply voltage across the upper half of the secondary
winding reverses and becomes negative the FWD turns-on. The load current continues to
flow through the FWD from ω t = π to β .
vO V m
ωt
0
α
iO
α
β
ωt
0 π β
α 2 π 3 π
(π + α ( π) + β )
79
Output voltage vO = Vm sin ω t ; for ω t = α to π
π
1
Therefore VO( dc ) = Vdc = ∫ Vm sin ω t.d ( ω t )
πα
V π
VO( dc ) = Vdc = m − cos ω t
π α
Vm
VO( dc ) = Vdc = [ − cos π + cos α ] ; cos π = −1
π
Vm
Therefore VO( dc ) = Vdc = ( 1 + cos α )
π
The DC output voltage Vdc is same as the DC output voltage of a single phase full
wave controlled rectifier with resistive load. Note that the dc output voltage of a single
phase full wave controlled rectifier is two times the dc output voltage of a half wave
controlled rectifier.
Vm
VO( dc ) = Vdc = ( 1 + cos α )
π
Vdc can be varied by varying the trigger angle α from 0 to 1800 . (i.e., the range
of trigger angle α is from 0 to π radians).
Maximum dc output voltage is obtained when α = 0
Vm 2V
Vdc( max ) = Vdc = ( 1 + cos 0 ) = m
π π
2Vm
Therefore Vdc( max ) = Vdc = for a single phase full wave controlled rectifier.
π
Normalizing the dc output voltage with respect to its maximum value, we can
write the normalized dc output voltage as
80
Vdc Vdc
Vdcn = Vn = =
Vdc( max ) Vdm
Vm
( 1 + cos α ) 1
Vdcn = Vn = π = ( 1 + cos α )
2Vm 2
π
1 V
Therefore Vdcn = Vn = ( 1 + cos α ) = dc
2 Vdm
1
Vdc = ( 1 + cos α ) Vdm
2
V O ( d c )
V d m
0 . 6 d Vm
0 . 2 d mV
0 6 0 1 2 0 1 8 0
T r i g g e r αa n g l e in d e g r e e s
Fig.: Control characteristic of a single phase full wave controlled rectifier with R
load or RL load with FWD
81
CONTINUOUS LOAD CURRENT OPERATION (WITHOUT FWD)
For large values of load inductance the load current flows continuously without
decreasing and falling to zero and there is always a load current flowing at any point of
time. This type of operation is referred to as continuous current operation.
Generally the load current is continuous for large load inductance and for low
trigger angles.
The load current is discontinuous for low values of load inductance and for large
values of trigger angles.
The waveforms for continuous current operation are as shown.
vO V m
ωt
0
iO
α α α α
T2 O N T1 O N
T1 O N ωt
0
α π 2 π 3 π
(π + α )(2 π + α )
Fig.: Load voltage and load current waveform of a single phase full wave controlled
rectifier with RL load & without FWD for continuous load current operation
operation.
82
TO DERIVE AN EXPRESSION FOR THE AVERAGE OR DC OUTPUT
VOLTAGE OF SINGLE PHASE FULL WAVE CONTROLLED RECTIFIER
WITH LARGE LOAD INDUCTANCE ASSUMING CONTINUOUS LOAD
CURRENT OPERATION.
( π +α )
1
VO( dc ) = Vdc = ∫ vO .d ( ω t )
π ω t =α
1 ( π +α )
VO( dc ) = Vdc = ∫ Vm sin ω t.d ( ω t )
π α
( π +α )
V
VO( dc ) = Vdc = m − cos ω t
π α
Vm
VO( dc ) = Vdc = cos α − cos ( π + α ) ; cos ( π + α ) = − cos α
π
Vm
VO( dc ) = Vdc = [ cos α + cos α ]
π
2Vm
∴ VO ( dc ) = Vdc = cos α
π
The above equation can be plotted to obtain the control characteristic of a single
phase full wave controlled rectifier with RL load assuming continuous load current
operation.
Normalizing the dc output voltage with respect to its maximum value, the
normalized dc output voltage is given by
2Vm
Vdc ( cos α )
Vdcn = Vn = = π = cos α
Vdc( max ) 2Vm
π
83
Trigger angle α VO( dc ) Remarks
in degrees
2V Maximum dc output voltage
Vdm = m
0 π 2V
Vdc( max ) = Vdm = m
π
300 0.866 Vdm
600 0.5 Vdm
900 0 Vdm
1200 -0.5 Vdm
1500 -0.866 Vdm
2V
1800 −Vdm = − m
π
VO ( d c )
V d m
0 . 6 d mV
0 . 2 d mV
α
0
3 0 6 0 9 0 1 2 0 1 5 0 1 8 0
- 0 . d2 m V
- 0 . 6d m V
- Vd m
T r i g g e r αa n g l e i n d e g r e e s
We notice from the control characteristic that by varying the trigger angle α we
can vary the output dc voltage across the load. Thus it is possible to control the dc output
voltage by changing the trigger angle α . For trigger angle α in the range of 0 to 90
degrees ( i.e., 0 ≤ α ≤ 90 ) , Vdc is positive and the circuit operates as a controlled
0
rectifier to convert ac supply voltage into dc output power which is fed to the load.
For trigger angle α > 900 , cos α becomes negative and as a result the average dc
output voltage Vdc becomes negative, but the load current flows in the same positive
direction. Hence the output power becomes negative. This means that the power flows
from the load circuit to the input ac source. This is referred to as line commutated
inverter operation. During the inverter mode operation for α > 900 the load energy can
be fed back from the load circuit to the input ac source.
84
TO DERIVE AN EXPRESSION FOR RMS OUTPUT VOLTAGE
The rms value of the output voltage is calculated by using the equation
1
2 ( π +α ) 2
VO( RMS ) = ∫ vO2 .d ( ω t )
2π α
1
1 ( π +α ) 2 2 2
VO( RMS ) =
π α
∫ Vm sin ω t.d ( ω t )
1
V 2 ( π +α ) 2
VO( RMS ) = m ∫ sin ω t.d ( ω t )
2
π α
1
2 ( π +α )
V ( 1 − cos 2ω t ) .d 2
VO( RMS ) = m
∫ ( ωt )
π α 2
1
1 ( π +α )
( π +α )
2
VO( RMS ) = Vm
2π
α
∫ d ( ωt ) − ∫ α
cos 2ω t.d ( ω t )
1
1
( π +α )
sin 2ω t
( π +α ) 2
VO( RMS ) = Vm ( ω t ) −
2π α 2 α
1
1 sin 2 ( π + α ) − sin 2α 2
VO( RMS ) = Vm ( π + α − α ) −
2π 2
1
1 sin 2π × cos 2α + cos 2π × sin 2α − sin 2α 2
VO( RMS ) = Vm ( π ) −
2π 2
1
1 0 + sin 2α − sin 2α 2
VO( RMS ) = Vm ( π ) −
2π 2
1
1 2 V
VO( RMS ) = Vm ( π ) = m
2π 2
Therefore
Vm
VO( RMS ) = ; The rms output voltage is same as the input rms supply voltage.
2
85
SINGLE PHASE SEMICONVERTERS
Single phase semi-converter circuit is a full wave half controlled bridge converter
which uses two thyristors and two diodes connected in the form of a full wave bridge
configuration.
The two thyristors are controlled power switches which are turned on one after the
other by applying suitable gating signals (gate trigger pulses). The two diodes are
uncontrolled power switches which turn-on and conduct one after the other as and when
they are forward biased.
The circuit diagram of a single phase semi-converter (half controlled bridge
converter) is shown in the above figure with highly inductive load and a dc source in the
load circuit. When the load inductance is large the load current flows continuously and
we can consider the continuous load current operation assuming constant load current,
with negligible current ripple (i.e., constant and ripple free load current operation).
The ac supply to the semiconverter is normally fed through a mains supply
transformer having suitable turns ratio. The transformer is suitably designed to supply the
required ac supply voltage (secondary output voltage) to the converter.
During the positive half cycle of input ac supply voltage, when the transformer
secondary output line ‘A’ is positive with respect to the line ‘B’ the thyristor T1 and the
diode D1 are both forward biased. The thyristor T1 is triggered at ω t = α ; ( 0 ≤ α ≤ π )
by applying an appropriate gate trigger signal to the gate of T1 . The current in the circuit
flows through the secondary line ‘A’, through T1 , through the load in the downward
direction, through diode D1 back to the secondary line ‘B’.
T1 and D1 conduct together from ω t = α to π and the load is connected to the
input ac supply. The output load voltage follows the input supply voltage (the secondary
output voltage of the transformer) during the period ω t = α to π .
At ω t = π , the input supply voltage decreases to zero and becomes negative
during the period ω t = π to ( π + α ) . The free wheeling diode Dm across the load
becomes forward biased and conducts during the period ω t = π to ( π + α ) .
86
Fig:. Waveforms of single phase semi-converter for RLE load and constant load
current for α > 900
87
The load current is transferred from T1 and D1 to the FWD Dm . T1 and D1 are
turned off. The load current continues to flow through the FWD Dm . The load current
free wheels (flows continuously) through the FWD during the free wheeling time period
π to ( π + α ) .
During the negative half cycle of input supply voltage the secondary line ‘A’
becomes negative with respect to line ‘B’. The thyristor T2 and the diode D2 are both
forward biased. T2 is triggered at ω t = ( π + α ) , during the negative half cycle. The FWD
is reverse biased and turns-off as soon as T2 is triggered. The load current continues to
flow through T2 and D2 during the period ω t = ( π + α ) to 2π
2Vm
[ − cos ω t ] α
π
Vdc =
2π
Vm
Vdc = [ − cos π + cos α ] ; cos π = −1
π
Vm
Therefore Vdc = [ 1 + cos α ]
π
2Vm
Vdc can be varied from to 0 by varying α from 0 to π .
π
2Vm
Vdc( max ) = Vdm =
π
Normalizing the average output voltage with respect to its maximum value
Vdc
Vdcn = Vn = = 0.5 ( 1 + cos α )
Vdm
The output control characteristic can be plotted by using the expression for Vdc
88
TO DERIVE AN EXPRESSION FOR THE RMS OUTPUT VOLTAGE OF A
SINGLE PHASE SEMI-CONVERTER
1
2 π 2
VO( RMS ) = ∫ Vm2 sin 2 ω t.d ( ω t )
2π α
1
Vm2 π
2
VO( RMS ) = ∫ ( 1 − cos 2ω t ) .d ( ω t )
2π α
1
V 1 sin 2α 2
VO( RMS ) = m π − α +
2 π 2
The circuit diagram of a single phase fully controlled bridge converter is shown in
the figure with a highly inductive load and a dc source in the load circuit so that the load
current is continuous and ripple free (constant load current operation).
The fully controlled bridge converter consists of four thyristors T1 , T2 , T3 and T4
connected in the form of full wave bridge configuration as shown in the figure. Each
thyristor is controlled and turned on by its gating signal and naturally turns off when a
reverse voltage appears across it. During the positive half cycle when the upper line of the
transformer secondary winding is at a positive potential with respect to the lower end the
thyristors T1 and T2 are forward biased during the time interval ω t = 0 to π . The
thyristors T1 and T2 are triggered simultaneously ω t = α ; ( 0 ≤ α ≤ π ) , the load is
connected to the input supply through the conducting thyristors T1 and T2 . The output
voltage across the load follows the input supply voltage and hence output voltage
vO = Vm sin ω t . Due to the inductive load T1 and T2 will continue to conduct beyond
ω t = π , even though the input voltage becomes negative. T1 and T2 conduct together
89
during the time period α to ( π + α ) , for a time duration of π radians (conduction angle
of each thyristor = 1800 )
During the negative half cycle of input supply voltage for ω t = π to 2π the
thyristors T3 and T4 are forward biased. T3 and T4 are triggered at ω t = ( π + α ) . As
soon as the thyristors T3 and T4 are triggered a reverse voltage appears across the
thyristors T1 and T2 and they naturally turn-off and the load current is transferred from
T1 and T2 to the thyristors T3 and T4 . The output voltage across the load follows the
supply voltage and vO = −Vm sin ω t during the time period ω t = ( π + α ) to ( 2π + α ) . In
the next positive half cycle when T1 and T2 are triggered, T3 and T4 are reverse biased
and they turn-off. The figure shows the waveforms of the input supply voltage, the output
load voltage, the constant load current with negligible ripple and the input supply current.
90
During the time period ω t = α to π , the input supply voltage vS and the input
supply current iS are both positive and the power flows from the supply to the load. The
converter operates in the rectification mode during ω t = α to π .
During the time period ω t = π to ( π + α ) , the input supply voltage vS is negative
and the input supply current iS is positive and there will be reverse power flow from the
load circuit to the input supply. The converter operates in the inversion mode during the
time period ω t = π to ( π + α ) and the load energy is fed back to the input source.
The single phase full converter is extensively used in industrial applications up to
about 15kW of output power. Depending on the value of trigger angle α , the average
output voltage may be either positive or negative and two quadrant operation is possible.
The average (dc) output voltage can be determined by using the expression
1
2π
VO( dc ) = Vdc = ∫ vO .d ( ω t ) ;
2π 0
The output voltage waveform consists of two output pulses during the input
supply time period between 0 & 2π radians . In the continuous load current operation of
a single phase full converter (assuming constant load current) each thyristor conduct for
π radians (1800) after it is triggered. When thyristors T1 and T2 are triggered at ω t = α
T1 and T2 conduct from α to ( π + α ) and the output voltage follows the input supply
voltage. Therefore output voltage vO = Vm sin ω t ; for ω t = α to ( π + α )
Hence the average or dc output voltage can be calculated as
2
π +α
VO( dc ) = Vdc = ∫ Vm sin ω t.d ( ω t )
2π α
1
π +α
VO( dc ) = Vdc = ∫ Vm sin ω t.d ( ω t )
πα
Vm π +α
VO( dc ) = Vdc = ∫ sin ω t.d ( ω t )
π α
Vm
[ − cos ω t ] α
π +α
VO( dc ) = Vdc =
π
Vm
VO( dc ) = Vdc = − cos ( π + α ) + cos α ; cos ( π + α ) = − cos α
π
2Vm
Therefore VO( dc ) = Vdc = cos α
π
91
2Vm
The dc output voltage Vdc can be varied from a maximum value of for α = 00 to a
π
−2Vm
minimum value of for α = π radians = 1800
π
The maximum average dc output voltage is calculated for a trigger angle α = 00
and is obtained as
2V 2V
Vdc( max ) = Vdm = m × cos ( 0 ) = m
π π
2Vm
Therefore Vdc( max ) = Vdm =
π
2Vm
cos α
Vdcn = Vn = π = cos α
2Vm
π
Therefore Vdcn = Vn = cos α ; for a single phase full converter assuming continuous
and constant load current operation.
92
VO ( d c )
V d m
0 . 6 d mV
0 . 2 d mV
α
0
3 0 6 0 9 0 1 2 0 1 5 0 1 8 0
- 0 . d2 m V
- 0 . 6d m V
- Vd m
T r i g g e r αa n g l e i n d e g r e e s
We notice from the control characteristic that by varying the trigger angle α we
can vary the output dc voltage across the load. Thus it is possible to control the dc output
voltage by changing the trigger angle α . For trigger angle α in the range of 0 to 90
degrees ( i.e., 0 ≤ α ≤ 90 ) , Vdc is positive and the average dc load current I dc is also
0
positive. The average or dc output power Pdc is positive, hence the circuit operates as a
controlled rectifier to convert ac supply voltage into dc output power which is fed to the
load.
For trigger angle α > 900 , cos α becomes negative and as a result the average dc
output voltage Vdc becomes negative, but the load current flows in the same positive
direction i.e., I dc is positive . Hence the output power becomes negative. This means that
the power flows from the load circuit to the input ac source. This is referred to as line
commutated inverter operation. During the inverter mode operation for α > 900 the load
energy can be fed back from the load circuit to the input ac source
93
The above figure shows the two regions of single phase full converter operation in
the Vdc versus I dc plane. In the first quadrant when the trigger angle α is less than 900,
Vdc and I dc are both positive and the converter operates as a controlled rectifier and
converts the ac input power into dc output power. The power flows from the input source
to the load circuit. This is the normal controlled rectifier operation where Pdc is positive.
When the trigger angle is increased above 900 , Vdc becomes negative but I dc is
positive and the average output power (dc output power) Pdc becomes negative and the
power flows from the load circuit to the input source. The operation occurs in the fourth
quadrant where Vdc is negative and I dc is positive. The converter operates as a line
commutated inverter.
1 2
2π
VO( RMS ) = ∫ vO .d ( ω t )
2π 0
The single phase full converter gives two output voltage pulses during the input
supply time period and hence the single phase full converter is referred to as a two pulse
converter. The rms output voltage can be calculated as
2
π +α
VO( RMS ) = ∫ vO .d ( ω t )
2
2π α
1
π +α
VO( RMS ) = ∫ Vm sin ω t.d ( ω t )
2 2
πα
Vm2 π +α 2
VO( RMS ) = ∫ sin ω t.d ( ω t )
π α
Vm2 π +α ( 1 − cos 2ω t )
VO( RMS ) = ∫ .d ( ω t )
π α 2
Vm2 π +α
π +α
VO( RMS ) = ∫ d ( ω t ) − ∫ cos 2ω t.d ( ω t )
2π α α
Vm2 π +α
sin 2ω t
π +α
VO( RMS ) = ( ω t ) −
2π α 2 α
94
Vm2 sin 2 ( π + α ) − sin 2α
VO( RMS ) = ( π + α − α ) −
2π 2
Vm2 Vm2 Vm
VO( RMS ) = (π ) −0 = =
2π 2 2
Vm
Therefore VO( RMS ) = = VS
2
Hence the rms output voltage is same as the rms input supply voltage
Each thyristor conducts for π radians or 1800 in a single phase full converter
operating at continuous and constant load current.
π 1
IT ( RMS ) = IO ( RMS ) = IO ( RMS )
2π 2
I O( RMS )
IT ( RMS ) =
2
π 1
IT ( Avg ) = IO ( dc ) × = IO ( dc ) ×
2π 2
I O( dc )
IT ( Avg ) =
2
95
SINGLE PHASE DUAL CONVERTER
96
We have seen in the case of a single phase full converter with inductive loads the
converter can operate in two different quadrants in the Vdc versus I dc operating diagram.
If two single phase full converters are connected in parallel and in opposite direction
(connected in back to back) across a common load four quadrant operation is possible.
Such a converter is called as a dual converter which is shown in the figure.
The dual converter system will provide four quadrant operation and is normally
used in high power industrial variable speed drives. The converter number 1 provides a
positive dc output voltage and a positive dc load current, when operated in the
rectification mode.
The converter number 2 provides a negative dc output voltage and a negative dc
load current when operated in the rectification mode. We can thus have bi-directional
load current and bi-directional dc output voltage. The magnitude of output dc load voltage
and the dc load current can be controlled by varying the trigger angles α1 & α 2 of the
converters 1 and 2 respectively.
There are two modes of operations possible for a dual converter system.
• Non circulating current mode of operation (circulating current free mode
of operation).
• Circulating current mode of operation.
97
are released to the thyristor gates of converter 2 and the trigger angle α 2 is adjusted such
that 0 ≤ α 2 ≤ 90 so that converter 2 operates as a controlled rectifier. The dc output
0
voltage Vdc and I dc are both negative and the load current flows in the reverse direction.
The magnitude of Vdc and I dc are controlled by the trigger angle α 2 . The operation
occurs in the third quadrant where Vdc and I dc are both negative and output power Pdc is
positive and the converter 2 operates as a controlled rectifier and converts the ac supply
power into dc output power which is fed to the load.
When we want to reverse the load current flow so that I dc is positive we have to
operate converter 2 in the inverter mode by increasing the trigger angle α 2 above 900 .
When α 2 is made greater than 900 , the converter 2 operates as a line commutated
inverter and the load power (load energy) is fed back to ac mains. The current falls to zero
when all the load energy is utilized and the converter 1 can be switched on after a short
delay of 10 to 20 milli seconds to ensure that the converter 2 thyristors are completely
turned off.
The advantage of non circulating current mode of operation is that there is no
circulating current flowing between the two converters as only one converter operates and
conducts at a time while the other converter is switched off. Hence there is no need of the
series current limiting inductors between the outputs of the two converters. The current
rating of thyristors is low in this mode.
But the disadvantage is that the load current tends to become discontinuous and
the transfer characteristic becomes non linear. The control circuit becomes complex and
the output response is sluggish as the load current reversal takes some time due to the
time delay between the switching off of one converter and the switching on of the other
converter. Hence the output dynamic response is poor. Whenever a fast and frequent
reversal of the load current is required, the dual converter is operated in the circulating
current mode.
2Vm
Vdc1 = cos α1
π
2Vm
Vdc 2 = cos α 2
π
98
In the dual converter operation one converter is operated as a controlled rectifier
with α1 < 90 and the second converter is operated as a line commutated inverter in the
0
Vdc1 = −Vdc 2
2Vm −2Vm 2V
cos α1 = cos α 2 = m ( − cos α2 )
π π π
Therefore α 2 = ( π − α1 ) or ( α1 + α 2 ) = π radians
Which gives α 2 = ( π − α1 )
When the trigger angle α1 of converter 1 is set to some value the trigger angle α 2
of the second converter is adjusted such that α 2 = ( 180 − α1 ) . Hence for circulating
0
current mode of operation where both converters are conducting at the same time
( α1 + α 2 ) = 1800 so that they produce the same dc output voltage across the load.
When α1 < 90 (say α1 = 30 ) the converter 1 operates as a controlled rectifier
0 0
and converts the ac supply into dc output power and the average load current I dc is
positive. At the same time the converter 2 is switched on and operated as a line
commutated inverter, by adjusting the trigger angle α 2 such that α 2 = ( 180 − α1 ) , which
0
is equal to 1500 , when α1 = 30 . The converter 2 will operate in the inversion mode and
0
feeds the load energy back to the ac supply. When we want to reverse the load current
flow we have to switch the roles of the two converters.
When converter 2 is operated as a controlled rectifier by adjusting the trigger
α
angle 2 such that α 2 < 90 , the first converter1 is operated as a line commutated
0
inverter, by adjusting the trigger angle α1 such that α1 > 90 . The trigger angle α1 is
0
In the circulating current mode a current builds up between the two converters
even when the load current falls to zero. In order to limit the circulating current flowing
between the two converters, we have to include current limiting reactors in series between
the output terminals of the two converters.
The advantage of the circulating current mode of operation is that we can have
faster reversal of load current as the two converters are in a state of conduction
simultaneously. This greatly improves the dynamic response of the output giving a faster
dynamic response. The output voltage and the load current can be linearly varied by
adjusting the trigger angles α1 & α 2 to obtain a smooth and linear output control. The
control circuit becomes relatively simple. The transfer characteristic between the output
voltage and the trigger angle is linear and hence the output response is very fast. The load
current is free to flow in either direction at any time. The reversal of the load current can
be done in a faster and smoother way.
99
The disadvantage of the circulating current mode of operation is that a current
flows continuously in the dual converter circuit even at times when the load current is
zero. Hence we should connect current limiting inductors (reactors) in order to limit the
peak circulating current within specified value. The circulating current flowing through
the series inductors gives rise to increased power losses, due to dc voltage drop across the
series inductors which decreases the efficiency. Also the power factor of operation is low.
The current limiting series inductors are heavier and bulkier which increases the cost and
weight of the dual converter system.
The current flowing through the converter thyristors is much greater than the dc
load current. Hence the thyristors should be rated for a peak thyristor current of
IT ( max ) = I dc ( max ) + ir ( max ) , where I dc( max ) is the maximum dc load current and ir ( max ) is the
maximum value of the circulating current.
100
As the instantaneous output voltages of the two converters are out of phase, there
will be an instantaneous voltage difference and this will result in circulating current
between the two converters. In order to limit the circulating current, current limiting
reactors are connected in series between the outputs of the two converters. This
circulating current will not flow through the load and is normally limited by the current
reactor Lr .
If vO1 and vO2 are the instantaneous output voltages of the converters 1 and 2,
respectively the circulating current can be determined by integrating the instantaneous
voltage difference (which is the voltage drop across the circulating current reactor Lr),
starting from ω t = (2π - α 1). As the two average output voltages during the interval ω t
= (π +α 1) to (2π - α 1) are equal and opposite their contribution to the instantaneous
circulating current ir is zero.
1 ωt
ir = ∫ vr .d ( ω t ) ; vr = ( vO 1 − vO 2 )
ω Lr ( 2π −α1 )
vr = ( vO1 + vO 2 )
1 ωt
Therefore ir = ∫ ( vO 1 + vO 2 ) .d ( ω t ) ;
ω Lr ( 2π −α1 )
Vm ωt ωt
ir = ∫ − sin ω t.d ( ω t ) − ∫ sin ω t.d ( ω t )
ω Lr ( 2π −α1 ) ( 2π −α1 )
V ωt ωt
ir = m ( cos ω t ) + ( cos ω t )
ω Lr ( 2π −α1 ) ( 2π −α1 )
Vm
ir = ( cos ω t ) − cos ( 2π − α1 ) + ( cos ω t ) − cos ( 2π − α1 )
ω Lr
Vm
ir = 2 cos ω t − 2 cos ( 2π − α1 )
ω Lr
2Vm
ir = ( cos ω t − cos α1 )
ω Lr
The instantaneous value of the circulating current depends on the delay angle.
101
For trigger angle (delay angle) α 1 = 0, its magnitude becomes minimum when
ω t = nπ , n = 0, 2, 4,.... and magnitude becomes maximum when ω t = nπ , n = 1,3,5,....
If the peak load current is I p , one of the converters that controls the power flow
4Vm
may carry a peak current of I p + ,
ω Lr
Vm 4V
Where I p = I L( max ) = , & ir ( max ) = m
RL ω Lr
Problems
π
1. What will be the average power in the load for the circuit shown, when α = .
4
Assume SCR to be ideal. Supply voltage is 330 sin314t. Also calculate the RMS
power and the rectification efficiency.
T
S
3 3
i n
0
3 1
~ 4 t
R 1 0Ω 0
−
The circuit is that of a single phase half wave controlled rectifier with a resistive load
Vm π
Vdc = ( 1 + cos α ) ; α= radians
2π 4
330 π
Vdc = 1 + cos
2π 4
Vdc2 89.662
Average Power = = = 80.38 Watts
R 100
Vdc 89.66
I dc = = = 0.8966 Amps
R 100
1
V 1 sin 2α 2
VRMS = m π π − α +
2 2
102
1
π 2
sin 2 ×
330 1 π 4
VRMS = π − +
2 π 4 2
VRMS = 157.32 V
2
VRMS 157.322
= = = 247.50 Watts
R 100
Average power
Rectification Efficiency =
RMS power
80.38
= = 0.3248
247.47
2. In the circuit shown find out the average voltage across the load assuming that the
conduction drop across the SCR is 1 volt. Take α = 450.
V A K
S
3 3 0
i n 3 1
~ 4 t
R 1 0Ω 0
−
The wave form of the load voltage is shown below (not to scale).
V m
v o lta g e
L oad
V o l t a g e a c r o s s
r e s i s t a n c e
V A K
0 ωt
γ β π 2 π 3 π
α
It is observed that the SCR turns off when ω t = β , where β = ( π − γ ) because the
SCR turns-off for anode supply voltage below 1 Volt.
103
−1 V −1 1
Therefore γ = sin AK = sin = 0.17 ( 0.003 radians )
0
Vm 330
β
1
Vdc =
2π ∫(V
α
m sin ω t − VAK ) d ( ω t )
1
β β
Vdc = ∫ Vm sin ω t.d ( ω t ) − VAK ∫ d ( ω t )
2π α α
1
β β
Vdc = Vm ( − cos ω t ) − VAK ( ω t )
2π α α
1
Vdc = Vm ( cos α − cos β ) − VAK ( β − α )
2π
1
Vdc = 330 ( cos 450 − cos179.830 ) − 1( 3.138 − 0.003)
2π
1 Ω0
+
2 4 V
2
5
0
0
0
~V
H z ( VB )
−
Solution
It is obvious that the SCR cannot conduct when the instantaneous value of the
supply voltage is less than 24 V, the battery voltage. The load voltage waveform is as
shown (voltage across ion).
104
V m
V o
l t a g e a c r o s s
r e s i s t a n c e
V B
0 ωt
γ β π 2 π 3 π
α
VB = Vm sin γ
24 = 200 2 sin γ
24
γ = sin −1 = 4.8675 = 0.085 radians
0
200 × 2
β = π − γ = 3.056 radians
1
β
= ∫ ( Vm sin ω t − VB ) .d ( ω t )
2π α
3.056
=
1
2π π∫
( )
200 × 2 sin ω t − 24 .d ( ω t )
4
1 π π
= 200 2 cos 4 − cos 3.056 − 24 3.056 − 4
2π
= 68 Vots
68
= = 6.8 Amps
10
Note: If value of γ is more than α , then the SCR will trigger only at ω t = γ ,
(assuming that the gate signal persists till then), when it becomes forward biased.
105
1
β
4. In a single phase full wave rectifier supply is 200 V AC. The load resistance is
10Ω , α = 600 . Find the average voltage across the load and the power consumed
in the load.
Solution
In a single phase full wave rectifier
Vm
Vdc = ( 1 + cos α )
π
200 × 2
Vdc =
π
( 1 + cos 600 )
Vdc = 135 Volts
Average Power
Vdc2 1352
= = = 1.823 kW
R 10
5. In the circuit shown find the charging current if the trigger angle α = 900 .
R = Ω 1 0
+
2
5
0 0
0 ~ V
H z
−
+
1 0 V
− ( VB )
Solution
With the usual notation
VB = Vm sin γ
10 = 200 2 sin γ
10
Therefore γ = sin −1 = 0.035 radians
200 × 2
106
π
α = 900 = radians ; β = ( π − γ ) = 3.10659
2
2
β
1 β
= −Vm cos ω t − VB ( ω t ) α
π
1
= Vm ( cos α − cos β ) − VB ( β − α )
π
1 π π
= 200 × 2 cos 2 − cos 3.106 − 10 3.106 − 2
π
= 85 V
85
= = 8.5 Amps
10
6. A single phase full wave controlled rectifier is used to supply a resistive load of
10 Ω from a 230 V, 50 Hz, supply and firing angle of 900. What is its mean load
voltage? If a large inductance is added in series with the load resistance, what will
be the new output load voltage?
Solution
For a single phase full wave controlled rectifier with resistive load,
Vm
Vdc = ( 1 + cos α )
π
230 × 2 π
Vdc = 1 + cos
π 2
When a large inductance is added in series with the load, the output voltage wave
form will be as shown below, for trigger angle α = 900 .
107
V 0
3 π
0 ωt
π 2 π
2Vm
Vdc = cos α
π
π π
Since α = ; cosα = cos = 0
2 2
7. The figure shows a battery charging circuit using SCRs. The input voltage to the
circuit is 230 V RMS. Find the charging current for a firing angle of 450. If any
one of the SCR is open circuited, what is the charging current?
Solution
1 Ω0 V L
+
V s ~
−
+
1 0 0 V
−
VS = Vm sin ω t
VS = 2 × 230sin ω t
2 × 230sin γ = 100
108
100
Therefore γ = sin −1
2 × 230
β = ( π − γ ) = ( π − 0.312 )
β = 2.829 radians
2
β
= ∫ ( Vm sin ω t − VB ) d ( ω t )
2π α
1 β
= −Vm cos ω t − VB ( ω t ) α
π
1
= Vm ( cos α − cos β ) − VB ( β − α )
π
1 π π
= 230 × 2 cos 4 − cos 2.829 − 100 2.829 − 4
π
1
= 230 × 2 ( 0.707 + 0.9517 ) − 204.36
π
= 106.68 Volts
106.68
= = 10.668 Amps
10
If one of the SCRs is open circuited, the circuit behaves like a half wave rectifier.
The average voltage across the resistance and the charging current will be half of that of a
full wave rectifier.
10.668
Therefore Charging Current = = 5.334 Amps
2
109
THREE PHASE CONTROLLED RECTIFIERS
INTRODUCTION TO 3-PHASE CONTROLLED RECTIFIERS
Single phase half controlled bridge converters & fully controlled bridge converters
are used extensively in industrial applications up to about 15kW of output power. The
2V
single phase controlled rectifiers provide a maximum dc output of Vdc( max ) = m .
π
The output ripple frequency is equal to the twice the ac supply frequency. The
single phase full wave controlled rectifiers provide two output pulses during every input
supply cycle and hence are referred to as two pulse converters.
Three phase converters are 3-phase controlled rectifiers which are used to convert
ac input power supply into dc output power across the load.
Three phase controlled rectifiers are extensively used in high power variable
speed industrial dc drives.
110
THEE PHASE SUPPLY VOLTAGE EQUATIONS
V C N
2π
vYN = vbn = Vm sin ω t −
3
0
1 2 0
vYN = vbn = Vm sin ( ω t − 120 0
)
0 V A N
1 2 0
2π
vBN = vcn = Vm sin ω t + 0
3 1 2 0
111
The 3-phase half wave converter combines three single phase half wave controlled
rectifiers in one single circuit feeding a common load. The thyristor T1 in series with one
of the supply phase windings ' a − n ' acts as one half wave controlled rectifier. The
second thyristor T2 in series with the supply phase winding ' b − n ' acts as the second half
wave controlled rectifier. The third thyristor T3 in series with the supply phase winding
' c − n ' acts as the third half wave controlled rectifier.
The 3-phase input supply is applied through the star connected supply transformer
as shown in the figure. The common neutral point of the supply is connected to one end
of the load while the other end of the load connected to the common cathode point.
π
When the thyristor T1 is triggered at ω t = + α = ( 30 + α ) , the phase voltage
0
6
van appears across the load when T1 conducts. The load current flows through the supply
phase winding ' a − n ' and through thyristor T1 as long as T1 conducts.
5π
When thyristor T2 is triggered at ω t = + α = ( 1500 + α ) , T1 becomes reverse
6
biased and turns-off. The load current flows through the thyristor T2 and through the
supply phase winding ' b − n ' . When T2 conducts the phase voltage vbn appears across the
load until the thyristor T3 is triggered .
3π
When the thyristor T3 is triggered at ω t = + α = ( 2700 + α ) , T2 is reversed
2
biased and hence T2 turns-off. The phase voltage vcn appears across the load when T3
conducts.
When T1 is triggered again at the beginning of the next input cycle the thyristor T3
turns off as it is reverse biased naturally as soon as T1 is triggered. The figure shows the
3-phase input supply voltages, the output voltage which appears across the load, and the
load current assuming a constant and ripple free load current for a highly inductive load
and the current through the thyristor T1 .
For a purely resistive load where the load inductance ‘L = 0’ and the trigger angle
π
α > , the load current appears as discontinuous load current and each thyristor is
6
naturally commutated when the polarity of the corresponding phase supply voltage
reverses. The frequency of output ripple frequency for a 3-phase half wave converter is
3 f S , where f S is the input supply frequency.
The 3-phase half wave converter is not normally used in practical converter
systems because of the disadvantage that the supply current waveforms contain dc
components (i.e., the supply current waveforms have an average or dc value).
112
TO DERIVE AN EXPRESSION FOR THE AVERAGE OUTPUT VOLTAGE OF
A 3-PHASE HALF WAVE CONVERTER FOR CONTINUOUS LOAD CURRENT
The reference phase voltage is vRN = van = Vm sin ω t . The trigger angle α is
measured from the cross over points of the 3-phase supply voltage waveforms. When the
phase supply voltage van begins its positive half cycle at ω t = 0 , the first cross over point
π
appears at ω t = radians = 30 .
0
6
The trigger angle α for the thyristor T1 is measured from the cross over point at
ω t = 300 . The thyristor T1 is forward biased during the period ω t = 300 to 1500 , when the
phase supply voltage van has a higher amplitude than the other phase supply voltages.
Hence T1 can be triggered between 300 to 1500 . When the thyristor T1 is triggered at a
trigger angle α , the average or dc output voltage for continuous load current is calculated
using the equation
5π +α
3 6
Vdc = ∫ vO .d ( ω t )
2π π
6 +α
56π +α
3
Vdc = ∫ Vm sin ω t.d ( ω t )
2π π
6 +α
As the output load voltage waveform has three output pulses during the input
cycle of 2π radians
56π +α
3Vm
Vdc = ∫ sin ω t.d ( ω t )
2π π
6 +α
5π
6
+α
3Vm
Vdc = ( − cos ω t )
2π
π
6
+α
113
3Vm 5π π
Vdc =
2π − cos 6 + α + cos 6 + α
3Vm 5π 5π π π
Vdc = − cos 6 cos ( α ) + sin sin ( α ) + cos .cos ( α ) − sin sin ( α )
2π 6 6 6
3Vm
Vdc = − cos ( 1500 ) cos ( α ) + sin ( 1500 ) sin ( α ) + cos ( 300 ) .cos ( α ) − sin ( 300 ) sin ( α )
2π
3Vm
Vdc = − cos ( 1800 − 300 ) cos ( α ) + sin ( 1800 − 300 ) sin ( α ) + cos ( 300 ) .cos ( α ) − sin ( 300 ) sin ( α )
2π
Therefore
3Vm
Vdc = + cos ( 300 ) cos ( α ) + sin ( 300 ) sin ( α ) + cos ( 300 ) .cos ( α ) − sin ( 300 ) sin ( α )
2π
3Vm
Vdc = 2 cos ( 300 ) cos ( α )
2π
3Vm 3
Vdc = 2 × cos ( α )
2π 2
3Vm 3 3Vm
Vdc = 3 cos ( α ) = cos ( α )
2π 2π
3VLm
Vdc = cos ( α )
2π
114
Where
VLm = 3Vm = Max. line to line supply voltage for a 3-phase star connected transformer.
Where
Vm is the peak phase voltage.
Vdc
Vdcn = Vn = = cos α
Vdm
1
5π
6
+α 2
3
VO( RMS ) = ∫ Vm2 sin 2 ω t.d ( ω t )
2π
π
6
+α
and we obtain
1
1 3 2
VO( RMS ) = 3Vm + cos 2α
6 8π
115
3 PHASE HALF WAVE CONTROLLED RECTIFIER OUTPUT VOLTAGE
WAVEFORMS FOR DIFFERENT TRIGGER ANGLES WITH RL LOAD
α V a n V b n V c n
↑
V 0
0
α= 3 0
0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0
ωt
3 0 6 0 9 0 1 2 01 5 01 8 02 1 02 4 02 7 03 0 03 3 03 6 03 9 04 2 0
α V V V
a n b n c n
↑
V 0 0
α= 6 0
0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0
ωt
3 0 6 0 9 0 1 2 01 5 01 8 02 1 02 4 02 7 03 0 03 3 03 6 03 9 04 2 0
α V V
b n c n
V a n
↑
V 0
0
α= 9 0
0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0
ωt
3 0 6 0 9 0 1 2 01 5 01 8 02 1 02 4 02 7 03 0 03 3 03 6 03 9 04 2 0
116
3 PHASE HALF WAVE CONTROLLED RECTIFIER OUTPUT VOLTAGE
WAVEFORMS FOR DIFFERENT TRIGGER ANGLES WITH R LOAD
V a n
V b n V c n
α= 0
V s
0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0
ωt
3 0 6 0 9 0 1 2 01 5 01 8 02 1 02 4 02 7 03 0 03 3 03 6 03 9 04 2 0
α V a n
V b n V c n
α= 10 5
V 0 ωt
0 3
0
0 6
0
0 9
0
0 1 2
0
01 5
0
01 8
0
02 1
0
02 4
0
02 7
0
03 0
0
03 3
0
03 6
0
03 9
0
04 2
0
0
α V a n
V b n V c n
α= 30 0
V 0
0
3
0
0 6
0
0 9
0
0 1 2
0
01 5
0
01 8
0
02 1
0
02 4
0
02 7
0
03 0
0
03 3
0
03 6
0
03 9
0
04 2
0
0
ωt
α V a n
V b n V c n
α= 60 0
V 0
0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0
ωt
3 0 6 0 9 0 1 2 01 5 01 8 02 1 02 4 02 7 03 0 03 3 03 6 03 9 04 2 0
117
TO DERIVE AN EXPRESSION FOR THE AVERAGE OR DC OUTPUT
VOLTAGE OF A 3 PHASE HALF WAVE CONVERTER WITH RESISTIVE
LOAD OR RL LOAD WITH FWD.
In the case of a three-phase half wave controlled rectifier with resistive load, the
thyristor T1 is triggered at ω t = ( 30 + α ) and T1 conducts up to ω t = 1800 = π radians.
0
When the phase supply voltage van decreases to zero at ω t = π , the load current falls to
zero and the thyristor T1 turns off. Thus T1 conducts from ω t = ( 30 + α ) to ( 180 ) .
0 0
Hence the average dc output voltage for a 3-pulse converter (3-phase half wave
controlled rectifier) is calculated by using the equation
3
0
180
Vdc = ∫ vO .d ( ω t )
2π α +300
3
0
180
Vdc = ∫ Vm sin ω t.d ( ω t )
2π α +300
3V 180
0
3V 1800
Vdc = m − cos ω t
2π
α + 300
3Vm
Vdc = − cos1800 + cos ( α + 300 )
2π
3Vm
We get Vdc = 1 + cos ( α + 300 )
2π
118
THREE PHASE SEMICONVERTERS
3-phase semi-converters are three phase half controlled bridge controlled rectifiers
which employ three thyristors and three diodes connected in the form of a bridge
configuration. Three thyristors are controlled switches which are turned on at appropriate
times by applying appropriate gating signals. The three diodes conduct when they are
forward biased by the corresponding phase supply voltages.
3-phase semi-converters are used in industrial power applications up to about
120kW output power level, where single quadrant operation is required. The power factor
of 3-phase semi-converter decreases as the trigger angle α increases. The power factor of
a 3-phase semi-converter is better than three phase half wave converter.
The figure shows a 3-phase semi-converter with a highly inductive load and the
load current is assumed to be a constant and continuous load current with negligible
ripple.
Thyristor T1 is forward biased when the phase supply voltage van is positive and
greater than the other phase voltages vbn and vcn . The diode D1 is forward biased when
the phase supply voltage vcn is more negative than the other phase supply voltages.
Thyristor T2 is forward biased when the phase supply voltage vbn is positive and
greater than the other phase voltages. Diode D2 is forward biased when the phase supply
voltage van is more negative than the other phase supply voltages.
Thyristor T3 is forward biased when the phase supply voltage vcn is positive and
greater than the other phase voltages. Diode D3 is forward biased when the phase supply
voltage vbn is more negative than the other phase supply voltages.
The figure shows the waveforms for the three phase input supply voltages, the
output voltage, the thyristor and diode current waveforms, the current through the free
wheeling diode Dm and the supply current ia . The frequency of the output supply
waveform is 3 f S , where f S is the input ac supply frequency. The trigger angle α can be
varied from 00 to 1800 .
π 7π
During the time period ≤ ω t ≤ i.e., for 30 ≤ ω t ≤ 210 , thyristor T1 is
0 0
6 6
π
forward biased. If T1 is triggered at ω t = + α , T1 and D1 conduct together and the
6
119
7π
line to line supply voltage vac appears across the load. At ω t = , vac starts to
6
become negative and the free wheeling diode Dm turns on and conducts. The load current
continues to flow through the free wheeling diode Dm and thyristor T1 and diode D1 are
turned off.
If the free wheeling diode Dm is not connected across the load, then T1 would
5π
continue to conduct until the thyristor T2 is triggered at ω t = + α and the free
6
wheeling action is accomplished through T1 and D2 , when D2 turns on as soon as van
7π π
becomes more negative at ω t = . If the trigger angle α ≤ each thyristor
6 3
2π
radians ( 120 ) and the free wheeling diode Dm does not conduct. The
0
conducts for
3
π
waveforms for a 3-phase semi-converter with α ≤ is shown in figure
3
120
121
We define three line neutral voltages (3 phase voltages) as follows
2π
vYN = vbn = Vm sin ω t −
3
2π
vBN = vcn = Vm sin ω t +
3
π
vRB = vac = ( van − vcn ) = 3Vm sin ω t −
6
5π
vYR = vba = ( vbn − van ) = 3Vm sin ω t −
6
π
vBY = vcb = ( vcn − vbn ) = 3Vm sin ω t +
2
π
vRY = vab = ( van − vbn ) = 3Vm sin ω t +
6
π
For α ≥ and discontinuous output voltage: the average output voltage is found
3
from
7π
6
3
Vdc = ∫ vac .d ( ω t )
2π π
6 +α
122
7π
3 6
π
Vdc = ∫ 3 Vm sin ω t − d ( ω t )
2π π 6
6 +α
3 3Vm
Vdc = ( 1 + cos α )
2π
3VmL
Vdc = ( 1 + cos α )
2π
3 3Vm
Vdm =
π
Vdc
Vn = = 0.5 ( 1 + cos α )
Vdm
1
3 7π
6
π 2
2
VO( RMS ) = ∫ 3Vm sin ω t − d ( ω t )
2
2π π 6
6 +α
1
3 1 2
VO( RMS ) = 3Vm π − α + sin 2α
4π 2
π
For α ≤ , and continuous output voltage
3
π π π
Output voltage vO = vab = 3Vm sin ω t + ; for ω t = + α to
6 6 2
π π 5π
Output voltage vO = vac = 3Vm sin ω t − ; for ω t = to +α
6 2 6
3 2
π 5π
6 +α
( ) ∫ ac ( )
2π π ∫
Vdc = vab .d ω t + v .d ω t
π
6+α 2
123
3 3Vm
Vdc = ( 1 + cos α )
2π
Vdc
Vn = = 0.5 ( 1 + cos α )
Vdm
The RMS value of the output voltage is calculated by using the equation
1
3 π
2
5π
6 +α 2
VO( RMS ) = ∫ vab .d ( ω t ) + ∫ vac .d ( ω t )
2 2
2π π π
6 +α 2
1
3 2π 2
VO( RMS ) = 3Vm + 3 cos 2 α
4π 3
Three phase full converter is a fully controlled bridge controlled rectifier using six
thyristors connected in the form of a full wave bridge configuration. All the six thyristors
are controlled switches which are turned on at a appropriate times by applying suitable
gate trigger signals.
The three phase full converter is extensively used in industrial power applications
upto about 120kW output power level, where two quadrant operation is required. The
figure shows a three phase full converter with highly inductive load. This circuit is also
known as three phase full wave bridge or as a six pulse converter.
π
The thyristors are triggered at an interval of radians (i.e. at an interval of
3
60 ). The frequency of output ripple voltage is 6 f S and the filtering requirement is less
0
124
π
At ω t = + α , thyristor T6 is already conducting when the thyristor T1 is
6
turned on by applying the gating signal to the gate of T1 . During the time period
π π
ω t = + α to + α , thyristors T1 and T6 conduct together and the line to line
6 2
supply voltage vab appears across the load.
π
At ω t = + α , the thyristor T2 is triggered and T6 is reverse biased
2
immediately and T6 turns off due to natural commutation. During the time period
π 5π
ω t = + α to + α , thyristor T1 and T2 conduct together and the line to line
2 6
supply voltage vac appears across the load.
The thyristors are numbered in the circuit diagram corresponding to the order in
which they are triggered. The trigger sequence (firing sequence) of the thyristors is 12,
23, 34, 45, 56, 61, 12, 23, and so on. The figure shows the waveforms of three phase
input supply voltages, output voltage, the thyristor current through T1 and T4 , the supply
current through the line ‘a’.
2π
vYN = vbn = Vm sin ω t − = Vm sin ( ω t − 120 )
0
3
2π
vBN = vcn = Vm sin ω t + = Vm sin ( ω t + 120 ) == Vm sin ( ω t − 240 )
0 0
3
π
vRY = vab = ( van − vbn ) = 3Vm sin ω t +
6
π
vYB = vbc = ( vbn − vcn ) = 3Vm sin ω t −
2
π
vBR = vca = ( vcn − van ) = 3Vm sin ω t +
2
125
T 6 T 1 T 2 T 3 T 4 T 5 T 6 T 1 T 2
iG 1 t
0 0 0
( 3 0α + ) ( 3 6 0 α+ 3 0 + )
0
iG 2 6 0
t
0
iG 3 6 0
t
0
iG 4 6 0
t
0
iG 5 6 0
t
0
iG 6 6 0
t
Gating (Control) Signals of 3-phase full converter
126
TO DERIVE AN EXPRESSION FOR THE AVERAGE OUTPUT VOLTAGE OF
THREE PHASE FULL CONVERTER WITH HIGHLY INDUCTIVE LOAD
ASSUMING CONTINUOUS AND CONSTANT LOAD CURRENT
The output load voltage consists of 6 voltage pulses over a period of 2π radians,
hence the average output voltage is calculated as
π
+α
2
6
VO( dc ) = Vdc =
2π π
∫ vO .dω t ;
+α
6
π
vO = vab = 3Vm sin ω t +
6
π
+α
32 π
π π∫
Vdc = 3Vm sin ω t + .dω t
+α
6
6
3 3Vm 3V
Vdc = cos α = mL cos α
π π
3 3Vm 3VmL
Vdc( max ) = Vdm = =
π π
Vdc
Vdcn = Vn = = cos α
Vdm
1
π
2
+α 2
6
VO( rms ) = ∫ vO2 .d ( ω t )
2π
π
6
+α
127
1
π
2
+α 2
6
VO( rms ) = ∫ v .d ( ω t )
2
2π
ab
π
6
+α
1
π
+α 2
3
2
π
VO( rms ) = ∫ 3Vm2 sin 2 ω t + .d ( ω t )
2π 6
π
6
+α
1
1 3 3 2
VO( rms ) = 3Vm + cos 2α
2 4π
128
THREE PHASE DUAL CONVERTERS
In many variable speed drives, the four quadrant operation is generally required
and three phase dual converters are extensively used in applications up to the 2000 kW
level. Figure shows three phase dual converters where two three phase full converters are
connected back to back across a common load. We have seen that due to the
instantaneous voltage differences between the output voltages of converters, a circulating
current flows through the converters. The circulating current is normally limited by
circulating reactor, Lr . The two converters are controlled in such a way that if α1 is the
delay angle of converter 1, the delay angle of converter 2 is α 2 = ( π − α1 ) .
The operation of a three phase dual converter is similar that of a single phase dual
converter system. The main difference being that a three phase dual converter gives much
higher dc output voltage and higher dc output power than a single phase dual converter
system. But the drawback is that the three phase dual converter is more expensive and the
design of control circuit is more complex.
The figure below shows the waveforms for the input supply voltages, output
voltages of converter1 and conveter2 , and the voltage across current limiting reactor
(inductor) Lr . The operation of each converter is identical to that of a three phase full
converter.
π π
During the interval + α1 to + α1 , the line to line voltage vab appears
6 2
across the output of converter 1 and vbc appears across the output of converter 2
2π
vYN = vbn = Vm sin ω t − = Vm sin ( ω t − 120 )
0
3
2π
vBN = vcn = Vm sin ω t + = Vm sin ( ω t + 120 ) = Vm sin ( ω t − 240 )
0 0
3
129
The corresponding line-to-line supply voltages are
π
vRY = vab = ( van − vbn ) = 3Vm sin ω t +
6
π
vYB = vbc = ( vbn − vcn ) = 3Vm sin ω t −
2
π
vBR = vca = ( vcn − van ) = 3Vm sin ω t +
2
130
TO OBTAIN AN EXPRESSION FOR THE CIRCULATING CURRENT
If vO1 and vO 2 are the output voltages of converters 1 and 2 respectively, the
instantaneous voltage across the current limiting inductor during the interval
π π
+ α1 ≤ ω t ≤ + α1 is
6 2
π π
vr = 3Vm sin ω t + − sin ω t −
6 2
π
vr = 3Vm cos ω t −
6
ωt
1 π
ir ( t ) = ∫ 3Vm cos ω t − .d ( ω t )
ω Lr π 6
+α1
6
3Vm π
ir ( t ) = sin ω t − 6 − sin α1
ω Lr
3Vm
ir ( max ) = = maximum value of the circulating current.
ω Lr
There are two different modes of operation of a three phase dual converter system.
• Circulating current free (non circulating) mode of operation
• Circulating current mode of operation
rectification mode Vdc is positive, I dc is positive and hence the average load power Pdc is
positive.
131
The converter 1 converts the input ac supply and feeds a dc power to the load.
Power flows from the ac supply to the load during the rectification mode. When the
trigger angle α1 is increased above 900 , Vdc becomes negative where as I dc is positive
because the thyristors of converter 1 conduct in only one direction and reversal of load
current through thyristors of converter 1 is not possible.
For α1 > 90 converter 1 operates in the inversion mode & the load energy is
0
supplied back to the ac supply. The thyristors are switched-off when the load current
decreases to zero & after a short delay time of about 10 to 20 milliseconds, the
converter 2 can be switched on by releasing the gate control signals to the thyristors of
converter 2.
We obtain a reverse or negative load current when the converter 2 is switched ON.
The average or dc output voltage and the average load current are controlled by adjusting
the trigger angle α 2 of the gate trigger pulses supplied to the thyristors of converter 2.
When α 2 is less than 900 , converter 2 operates in the rectification mode and converts
the input ac supply in to dc output power which is fed to the load.
When α 2 is less than 900 for converter 2, Vdc is negative & I dc is negative,
converter 2 operates as a controlled rectifier & power flows from the ac source to the load
circuit. When α 2 is increased above 900, the converter 2 operates in the inversion mode
with Vdc positive and I dc negative and hence Pdc is negative, which means that power
flows from the load circuit to the input ac supply.
The power flow from the load circuit to the input ac source is possible if the load
circuit has a dc source of appropriate polarity.
When the load current falls to zero the thyristors of converter 2 turn-off and the
converter 2 can be turned off.
greater than 900 , converter 2 operates in the inversion mode. Vdc , I dc , Pdc are positive.
When α 2 < 90 , converter 2 operates as a controlled rectifier. When α1 is made
0
greater than 900 , converter 1 operates as an Inverter. Vdc and I dc are negative while Pdc
is positive.
132
Problems
Solution
3Vm
For α = 450 , Vdc = cos α
π
3 × 2 × 400
Vdc = cos 450 = 382 Volts
π
6Vm
For α = 750 , Vdc = 1 + cos ( 600 + α )
2π
6 × 2 × 400
Vdc = 1 + cos ( 600 + 750 )
2π
A
+ R L a
a
3 p h
a s4 e 8 4 +
B F u l l W V a =v0 eV 4 4 0 V
R e c t i f i e r −
−
C
La - Armature Inductance.
If the voltage across the armature has to be the rated voltage i.e., 440 V, then the
output voltage of the rectifier should be 440 + drop in the motor
133
3Vm cos α
Therefore VO = = 484
π
3 × 2 × 415 × cos α
That is = 484
π
Therefore α = 30.27 0
Solution
π π
α= radians which is less than
4 3
3Vm
Therefore Vdc = [ 1 + cos α ]
2π
3 × 400
Vdc = 1 + cos 450
2π
If any one supply line is disconnected, the circuit behaves like a single phase half
controlled rectifies with RL load.
Vm
Vdc = [ 1 + cos α ]
π
400
Vdc = 1 + cos 450
π
134
EDUSAT PROGRAMME
LECTURE NOTES
ON
POWER ELECTRONICS
BY
PROF. T.K. ANANTHA KUMAR
DEPARTMENT OF
ELECTRICAL & ELECTRONICS ENGG.
135
THYRISTOR COMMUTATION TECHNIQUES
INTRODUCTION
In practice it becomes necessary to turn off a conducting thyristor. (Often
thyristors are used as switches to turn on and off power to the load). The process of
turning off a conducting thyristor is called commutation. The principle involved is that
either the anode should be made negative with respect to cathode (voltage commutation)
or the anode current should be reduced below the holding current value (current
commutation).
The reverse voltage must be maintained for a time at least equal to the turn-off
time of SCR otherwise a reapplication of a positive voltage will cause the thyristor to
conduct even without a gate signal. On similar lines the anode current should be held at a
value less than the holding current at least for a time equal to turn-off time otherwise the
SCR will start conducting if the current in the circuit increases beyond the holding current
level even without a gate signal. Commutation circuits have been developed to hasten the
turn-off process of Thyristors. The study of commutation techniques helps in
understanding the transient phenomena under switching conditions.
The reverse voltage or the small anode current condition must be maintained for a
time at least equal to the TURN OFF time of SCR; Otherwise the SCR may again start
conducting. The techniques to turn off a SCR can be broadly classified as
• Natural Commutation
• Forced Commutation.
vs ~ ↑ R ↑ vo
136
S u p p l y s v o l t a g Se i vn u s o i d a l
π 3π ωt
0 2π
ωt
α
L o a d vo o l t a g e v
T u r n o f f
o c c u r s h e r e
ωt
π 3π ωt
0 2π
V o l t a g e a c r o s s S C R
tc
FORCED COMMUTATION
When supply is DC, natural commutation is not possible because the polarity of
the supply remains unchanged. Hence special methods must be used to reduce the SCR
current below the holding value or to apply a negative voltage across the SCR for a time
interval greater than the turn off time of the SCR. This technique is called FORCED
COMMUTATION and is applied in all circuits where the supply voltage is DC - namely,
Choppers (fixed DC to variable DC), inverters (DC to AC). Forced commutation
techniques are as follows:
• Self Commutation
• Resonant Pulse Commutation
• Complementary Commutation
• Impulse Commutation
• External Pulse Commutation.
• Load Side Commutation.
137
• Line Side Commutation.
SELF COMMUTATION OR LOAD COMMUTATION OR CLASS A
COMMUTATION: (COMMUTATION BY RESONATING THE LOAD)
In this type of commutation the current through the SCR is reduced below the
holding current value by resonating the load. i.e., the load circuit is so designed that even
though the supply voltage is positive, an oscillating current tends to flow and when the
current through the SCR reaches zero, the device turns off. This is done by including an
inductance and a capacitor in series with the load and keeping the circuit under-damped.
Figure 1.3 shows the circuit.
This type of commutation is used in Series Inverter Circuit.
T L V c ( 0 )
i R + -
L o a d C
At t = 0 , when the SCR turns ON on the application of gate pulse assume the
current in the circuit is zero and the capacitor voltage is VC ( 0 ) .
Writing the Laplace Transformation circuit of figure 1.3 the following circuit is
obtained when the SCR is conducting.
1 V C ( 0 )
R I ( S s) L C S S
T + - + -
C
V
S
Fig.: 1.4.
138
V − VC ( 0 )
I ( S) = S
1
R + sL +
CS
CS V − VC ( 0 )
= S
RCs + s 2 LC + 1
C V − VC ( 0 )
=
R 1
LC s 2 + s +
L LC
V − VC ( 0 )
= L
R 1
s +s +
2
L LC
( V − V ( 0) )
C
= L
2 2
R 1 R R
s +s +
2
+ −
L LC 2 L 2 L
( V − V ( 0) )
C
= L
2
R 1 R
2 2
s+ + −
2 L LC 2 L
A
= ,
( s +δ )
2
+ω2
Where
A=
( V − V ( 0) ) ,
C
δ=
R
, ω=
1 R
−
2
L 2L LC 2L
A ω
I ( S) =
ω ( s +δ ) 2 +ω2
139
Taking inverse Laplace transforms
A −δ t
i( t) = e sin ω t
ω
V − VC ( 0 ) −2 RL t
i( t) = e sin ω t
ωL
ωL
vc = V − vR − VL
di
vc = V − iR − L
dt
Substituting for i,
A −δ t d A
vc = V − R e sin ω t − L e−δ t sin ω t
ω dt ω
A −δ t A
vc = V − R e sin ω t − L ( e−δ t ω cos ω t − δ e−δ t sin ω t )
ω ω
A −δ t
vc = V − e [ R sin ω t + ω L cos ω t − Lδ sin ω t ]
ω
A −δ t R
vc = V − e R sin ω t + ω L cos ω t − L sin ω t
ω 2L
A −δ t R
vc = V − e sin ω t + ω L cos ω t
ω 2
Substituting for A,
vc ( t ) = V −
( V − V ( 0) ) e δ
C R
2 sin ω t + ω L cos ω t
− t
ωL
vc ( t ) = V −
( V − V ( 0) ) e δ
C R
2 L sin ω t + ω cos ω t
− t
140
SCR turns off when current goes to zero. i.e., at ω t = π .
( V − V ( 0 ) ) e ωδπ
−
vc = V −
C
( 0 + ω cos π )
ω
−δπ
vc = V + V − VC ( 0 ) e ω
− Rπ
Therefore vc = V + V − VC ( 0 ) e 2 Lω
2
R 1
That is <
2L LC
V t
i= sin
ωL LC
1
But ω=
LC
V t C t
Therefore i= LC sin =V sin
L LC L LC
• Figure 1.5 shows the waveforms for the above conditions. Once the SCR turns off
voltage across it is negative voltage.
π
• Conduction time of SCR = .
ω
141
C
V
L C u r r e n t i
ωt
0 π/ 2 π
2 V
C a p a c i t o r v o l t a g e
V
ωt
G a t e p u l s e
ωt
ωt
−V
V o l t a g e a c r o s s S C R
Fig. 1.5: Self Commutation – Wave forms of Current and Capacitors Voltage
Problem 1.1 : Calculate the conduction time of SCR and the peak SCR current that flows
in the circuit employing series resonant commutation (self commutation or class A
commutation), if the supply voltage is 300 V, C = 1 µ F, L = 5 mH and RL = 100 Ω .
Assume that the circuit is initially relaxed.
T R L C
L
+ −
1 0 Ω0 5 m 1H µ F
V
= 3 0 0 V
Fig. 1.6.
142
Solution:
2
1 R
ω= − L
LC 2L
2
1 100
ω= −3 −6
− −3
5 ×10 ×1× 10 2 × 5 × 10
Since the circuit is initially relaxed, initial voltage across capacitor is zero as also
the initial current through L and the expression for current i is
V −δ t R
i= e sin ω t , where δ = ,
ωL 2L
V
Therefore peak value of i=
ωL
300
i= = 6A
10000 × 5 × 10−3
π π
Conducting time of SCR = = = 0.314msec
ω 10000
Problem 1.2 : Figure 1.7 shows a self commutating circuit. The inductance carries an
initial current of 200 A and the initial voltage across the capacitor is V, the supply
voltage. Determine the conduction time of the SCR and the capacitor voltage at turn off.
L T i ( t )
→ IO
1 µ0 H
C +
V 5 µ0 − VF C ( 0 = ) V
= 1 0 0 V
Fig. 1.7.
143
Solution :
The transformed circuit of figure 1.7 is shown in figure 1.8.
s L IO L
− +
I ( S ) +
V C ( 0 )
= V
+ − S
V
S − 1
C S
V V ( 0) 1
= I ( S ) sL − I O L + C + I ( S)
s s Cs
V VC ( 0 )
− + IO L
Therefore I ( S) = s s
1
sL +
Cs
V VC ( 0 )
− Cs
s s + I O LCs
I ( S) =
s LC + 1
2
s2 LC + 1
V − VC ( 0 ) C I O LCs
I ( S) = +
1 1
LC s 2 + LC s2 +
LC LC
V − VC ( 0 ) sI O
I ( S) = +
L s 2 + ω 2 s +ω2
2
V − VC ( 0 ) ω sI 1
I ( S) = + 2 O 2 where ω =
ω L s + ω s + ω
2 2
LC
Taking inverse LT
C
i ( t ) = V − VC ( 0 ) sin ω t + IO cos ω t
L
144
The capacitor voltage is given by
t
1
vc ( t ) = ∫ i ( t ) dt + VC ( 0 )
C0
1
t
C
vc ( t ) = ∫ V − VC ( 0 ) sin ω t + IO cos ω t dt + VC ( 0 )
C 0 L
1 ( V − VC ( 0 ) ) C t I t
vc ( t ) = ( − cos ω t ) + O ( sin ω t ) + VC ( 0 )
C ω L o ω o
1 ( V − VC ( 0 ) ) C I
vc ( t ) = ( 1 − cos ω t ) + O ( sin ω t ) + VC ( 0 )
C ω L ω
IO 1 C
vc ( t ) = × LC sin ω t + ( V − VC ( 0 ) ) LC ( 1 − cos ω t ) + VC ( 0 )
C C L
L
vc ( t ) = IO sin ω t + V − V cos ω t − VC ( 0 ) + VC ( 0 ) cos ω t + VC ( 0 )
C
L
vc ( t ) = IO sin ω t − ( V − VC ( 0 ) ) cos ω t + V
C
In this problem VC ( 0 ) = V
L
vc ( t ) = IO sin ω t + V
C
145
The waveforms are as shown in figure 1.9
I0
i ( t )
ωt
π/ 2
v c( t )
ωt
π/ 2
Fig.: 1.9
π
Turn off occurs at a time to so that ω tO =
2
0.5π
Therefore tO = = 0.5π LC
ω
L
vc ( tO ) = IO sin ω tO + V
C
10 ×10−6
vc ( tO ) = 200 −6
sin 900 + 100
50 ×10
35.12
vc ( tO ) = 200 × 0.447 × sin + 100
22.36
146
Problem 1.3: In the circuit shown in figure 1.10. V = 600 volts, initial capacitor voltage
is zero, L = 20 µ H, C = 50µ F and the current through the inductance at the time of
SCR triggering is Io = 350 A. Determine (a) the peak values of capacitor voltage and
current (b) the conduction time of T1.
L T1
→ 0I
i ( t )
V C
Fig. 1.10
Solution:
(Refer to problem 1.2).
i ( t ) can be written as
C
i ( t ) = I O2 + V 2 sin ( ω t + α )
L
L
IO
where C
α = tan −1
V
1
and ω=
LC
C
I O2 + V 2
L
147
50 ×10−6
= 3502 + 6002 × = 1011.19 A
20 ×10−6
L
vc ( t ) = IO sin ω t − ( V − VC ( 0 ) ) cos ω t + V
C
L
with VC ( 0 ) = 0, vc ( t ) = IO sin ω t − V cos ω t + V
C
L
vc ( t ) = V 2 + IO2 sin ( ω t − β ) + V
C
C
V
Where L
β = tan −1
IO
L
= V 2 + I O2 +V
C
20 ×10−6
= 6002 + 3502 × + 600
50 ×10−6
ωt
α 0
π − α
148
Fig. 1.11.
π −α
Therefore conduction time of SCR =
ω
L
IO
π − tan −1 C
V
=
1
LC
350 20 ×10−6
α = tan −1
600 50 ×10−6
1 1
ω= = = 31622.8 rad/sec
LC 20 × 10 × 50 × 10−6
−6
π − 0.3534
= = 88.17 µ sec
31622.8
L
T
i
a
b C
IL
V
L o a d
F W D
149
Fig. 1.12: Circuit for Resonant Pulse Commutation
This is a type of commutation in which a LC series circuit is connected across the
SCR. Since the commutation circuit has negligible resistance it is always under-damped
i.e., the current in LC circuit tends to oscillate whenever the SCR is on.
Initially the SCR is off and the capacitor is charged to V volts with plate ‘a’ being
positive. Referring to figure 1.13 at t = t1 the SCR is turned ON by giving a gate pulse. A
current I L flows through the load and this is assumed to be constant. At the same time
SCR short circuits the LC combination which starts oscillating. A current ‘i’ starts
flowing in the direction shown in figure. As ‘i’ reaches its maximum value, the capacitor
voltage reduces to zero and then the polarity of the capacitor voltage reverses ‘b’ becomes
positive). When ‘i’ falls to zero this reverse voltage becomes maximum, and then
direction of ‘i’ reverses i.e., through SCR the load current I L and ‘i’ flow in opposite
direction. When the instantaneous value of ‘i’ becomes equal to I L , the SCR current
becomes zero and the SCR turns off. Now the capacitor starts charging and its voltage
reaches the supply voltage with plate a being positive. The related waveforms are shown
in figure 1.13.
G a t e p u l s e
o f S C R
t
t1 π
V
C a p a c i t o r v o l t a g e
va b
t
tC
Ip i
t
π
IL ω
∆t
IS C R
V o l t a g e a c r o s s
S C R
t
150
EXPRESSION FOR tc , THE CIRCUIT TURN OFF TIME
Assume that at the time of turn off of the SCR the capacitor voltage vab ≈ −V and
load current I L is constant. tc is the time taken for the capacitor voltage to reach 0 volts
from – V volts and is derived as follows.
t
1 c
C ∫0
V= I L dt
I L tc
V=
C
VC
tc = seconds
IL
For proper commutation tc should be greater than tq , the turn off time of T. Also,
the magnitude of I p , the peak value of i should be greater than the load current I L and
the expression for i is derived as follows
T i
+
C V C( 0 )
− = V
Fig. 1.14.
I ( S )
s L
T 1
C s
+
V
− s
151
Fig. 1.15.
V
I ( S) = s
1
sL +
Cs
V
Cs
I ( S ) = 2
s
s LC + 1
VC
I ( S) =
1
LC s 2 +
LC
V 1
I ( S) = ×
L s2 + 1
LC
1
V LC 1
I ( S) = × ×
L s2 + 1 1
LC LC
1
C LC
I ( S) =V ×
L s2 + 1
LC
Taking inverse LT
C
i( t) =V sin ω t
L
1
Where ω=
LC
V
Or i( t) = sin ω t = I p sin ω t
ωL
C
Therefore Ip =V amps .
L
152
EXPRESSION FOR CONDUCTION TIME OF SCR
For figure 1.13 (waveform of i), the conduction time of SCR
π
= + ∆t
ω
I
sin −1 L
π I
= + p
ω ω
1
vc ( t ) = iC ( t ) .dt
C∫
1 C .
vc ( t ) = ∫ VC ( 0 ) sin ω t.dt
C L
vc ( t ) = −VC ( 0 ) cos ω t
T 1 iC ( t ) IL
C L iC ( t ) T 2
a b
− +
V C( 0 ) L
V T 3
O
A
F W D D
153
When ic ( t ) becomes equal to I L (the load current), the current through T1
becomes zero and T1 turns off. This happens at time t1 such that
t1
I L = I p sin
LC
C
I p = VC ( 0 )
L
I L
t1 = LC sin −1 L
VC ( 0 ) C
Once the thyristor T1 turns off, the capacitor starts charging towards the supply
voltage through T2 and load. As the capacitor charges through the load capacitor current
is same as load current I L , which is constant. When the capacitor voltage reaches V, the
supply voltage, the FWD starts conducting and the energy stored in L charges C to a still
higher voltage. The triggering of T3 reverses the polarity of the capacitor voltage and the
circuit is ready for another triggering of T1 . The waveforms are shown in figure 1.17.
EXPRESSION FOR tc
Assuming a constant load current I L which charges the capacitor
CV1
tc = seconds
IL
Normally V1 ≈ VC ( 0 )
For reliable commutation tc should be greater than tq , the turn off time of SCR T1 .
It is to be noted that tc depends upon I L and becomes smaller for higher values of load
current.
154
C u r Cr ( e t ) n t i
V
C a p a c i t o r
v o l t aa b g e v
t
t1
V 1
tC
V C( 0 )
D 2
iC ( t )
T 1
IL
C L iC ( t ) T 2
- +
V C( 0 )
L
T O
V 3
A
F W D D
Fig. 1.17(a)
155
iC
IL
0 t
V C
0 t
t1 t2
V 1
V ( O ) tC
C
Fig. 1.17(b)
t2 = π LC − t1
VC ( t2 ) = −VC ( O ) cos ω t2
Problem 1.4 : The circuit in figure 1.18 shows a resonant pulse commutation circuit. The
initial capacitor voltage VC ( O ) = 200V , C = 30µ F and L = 3µ H. Determine the circuit
turn off time tc , if the load current I L is (a) 200 A and (b) 50 A.
156
T 1
IL
C L iC ( t ) T 2
− +
V C( 0 )
L
T O
V 3
A
F W D D
Fig. 1.18.
Solution
(a) When I L = 200 A
Let T2 be triggered at t = 0 .
The capacitor current ic ( t ) reaches a value I L at t = t1 , when T1 turns off
I L
t1 = LC sin −1 L
VC ( 0 ) C
200 3 ×10−6
t1 = 3 × 10−6 × 30 ×10−6 sin −1
200 30 ×10−6
t1 = 3.05µ sec .
1 1
ω= =
LC 3 ×10−6 × 30 ×10−6
V1 = 200 × 0.9487
V1 = 189.75 Volts
CV1
and tc =
IL
157
30 ×10−6 × 189.75
tc = = 28.46 µ sec .
200
(b) When I L = 50 A
−6
50 3 ×10−6 −6 −1
t1 = 3 × 10 × 30 ×10 sin
200 30 ×10−6
t1 = 0.749 µ sec .
CV1
tc =
IL
30 ×10−6 × 200
tc = = 120 µ sec .
50
Problem 1.4a : Repeat the above problem for I L = 200 A , if an antiparallel diode D2 is
connected across thyristor T1 as shown in figure 1.18a.
D 2
iC ( t )
T 1
IL
C L iC ( t ) T 2
- +
V C( 0 )
L
T O
V 3
A
F W D D
Fig. 1.18(a)
158
Solution
I L = 200 A
Let T2 be triggered at t = 0 .
Capacitor current iC ( t ) reaches the value I L at t = t1 , when T1 turns off
I L
Therefore t1 = LC sin −1 L
VC ( O ) C
200 3 ×10−6
t1 = 3 × 10−6 × 30 ×10−6 sin −1
200 30 ×10−6
` t1 = 3.05µ sec .
1 1
ω= =
LC 3 ×10 × 30 ×10−6
−6
At t = t1
VC ( t1 ) = V1 = −VC ( O ) cos ω t1
VC ( t1 ) = −189.75V
t2 = π LC − t1
t2 = 26.75µ sec .
1 1
ω= =
LC 3 ×10−6 × 30 ×10−6
159
At t = t2
VC ( t2 ) = V2 = −200 cos 0.105 ×10+6 × 26.75 × 10−6
VC ( t2 ) = V2 = 189.02 V
tC = 23.7 µ secs
Problem 1.5: For the circuit shown in figure 1.19 calculate the value of L for proper
commutation of SCR. Also find the conduction time of SCR.
4 µ F
V
= 3 0 V L
R L i
3 0Ω IL
Fig. 1.19.
Solution:
V 30
The load current I L = = = 1 Amp
RL 30
For proper SCR commutation I p , the peak value of resonant current i, should be
greater than I L ,
Let I p = 2I L , Therefore I p = 2 Amps .
V V C
Ip = = =V
Also ωL 1
×L L
LC
4 ×10−6
Therefore 2 = 30 ×
L
Therefore L = 0.9mH .
1 1
ω= = = 16666 rad/sec
LC 0.9 × 10−3 × 4 × 10−6
160
I
sin −1 L
Conduction time of SCR = π I
+ p
ω ω
1
sin −1
π 2
= +
16666 16666
π + 0.523
= radians
16666
= 0.00022 seconds
= 0.22 msec
Problem 1.6: For the circuit shown in figure 1.20 given that the load current to be
commutated is 10 A, turn off time required is 40µ sec and the supply voltage is 100 V.
Obtain the proper values of commutating elements.
C
V
= 1 0 0 V L IL
i
IL
Fig. 1.20.
Solution
I p peak value of i = V C and this should be greater than I L . Let I p = 1.5 I L .
L
C
Therefore 1.5 × 10 = 100 ... ( a )
L
Also, assuming that at the time of turn off the capacitor voltage is approximately
equal to V, (and referring to waveform of capacitor voltage in figure 1.13) and the load
current linearly charges the capacitor
CV
tc = seconds
IL
100
Therefore 40 × 10−6 = C ×
10
161
Therefore C = 4µ F
4 × 10−6
1.5 × 10 = 100
L
104 × 4 ×10−6
1.5 × 10 =
2 2
L = 0.177 mH .
Problem 1.7 : In a resonant commutation circuit supply voltage is 200 V. Load current is
10 A and the device turn off time is 20µ s. The ratio of peak resonant current to load
current is 1.5. Determine the value of L and C of the commutation circuit.
Solution
Ip
Given = 1.5
IL
C
That is Ip =V = 15 A ... ( a )
L
It is given that the device turn off time is 20 µ sec. Therefore tc , the circuit turn
off time should be greater than this,
Let tc = 30 µ sec .
CV
And tc =
IL
200 × C
Therefore 30 ×10−6 =
10
Therefore C = 1.5µ F .
Substituting in (a)
1.5 ×10−6
15 = 200
L
162
1.5 × 10−6
152 = 2002 ×
L
Therefore L = 0.2666 mH
IL
R 1 R 2
a b iC
V
C
T 1 T 2
163
vc ( t ) = V f + ( Vi − V f ) e − t τ
Where V f is the final voltage, Vi is the initial voltage and τ is the time constant.
At t = tc , vc ( t ) = 0 ,
τ = R1C , V f = V , Vi = −V ,
− tc
Therefore 0 = V + ( −V − V ) e R1C
− tc
0 = V − 2Ve R1C
− tc
Therefore V = 2Ve R1C
− tc
0.5 = e R1C
tc = 0.693R1C
tc = 0.693R2C
Usually R1 = R2 = R
164
G a t e p u l s e G a t e p u l s e
o f1 T o f2 T
t
p
V
IL 2V
V
C u r r e n t 1 t h r R o1 u g h R
R1
t
C u r r e n t1 t h r o u g h T2 V
R2
V
R 1
t
2V C u r r e n t2 t h r o u g h T
R1
V
R 2
t
V
V o l t a g e a c r o s s
c a p a ac b i t o r v
t
-V
tC tC
V o l t a g e1 a c r o s s T
t
tC
Fig. 1.22
165
Problem 1.8 : In the circuit shown in figure 1.23 the load resistances R1 = R2 = R = 5Ω
and the capacitance C = 7.5 µ F, V = 100 volts. Determine the circuit turn off time tc .
R 1 R 2
V
C
T 1 T 2
Fig. 1.23.
Solution
The circuit turn-off time tc = 0.693 RC seconds
tc = 26 µ sec .
Problem 1.9: Calculate the values of RL and C to be used for commutating the main SCR
in the circuit shown in figure 1.24. When it is conducting a full load current of 25 A
flows. The minimum time for which the SCR has to be reverse biased for proper
commutation is 40µ sec. Also find R1 , given that the auxiliary SCR will undergo natural
commutation when its forward current falls below the holding current value of 2 mA.
i1 IL
R 1 R L
iC
V
= 1 0 0 V C
A u x i l i a r y M a i n
S C R S C R
Fig. 1.24.
Solution
In this circuit only the main SCR carries the load and the auxiliary SCR is used to
turn off the main SCR. Once the main SCR turns off the current through the auxiliary
SCR is the sum of the capacitor charging current ic and the current i1 through R1 , ic
reduces to zero after a time tc and hence the auxiliary SCR turns off automatically after a
time tc , i1 should be less than the holding current.
166
Given I L = 25 A
V 100
That is 25 A = =
RL RL
Therefore RL = 4Ω
tc = 40 µ sec = 0.693RL C
40 ×10−6
Therefore C=
4 × 0.693
C = 14.43µ F
V
i1 = should be less than the holding current of auxiliary SCR.
R1
100
Therefore should be < 2mA.
R1
100
Therefore R1 >
2 × 10−3
That is R1 > 50 K Ω
T 1
IL
−
T 3 V C( O ) C
+
L
L T O
V 2
A
F W D D
167
The working of the circuit can be explained as follows. It is assumed that initially
the capacitor C is charged to a voltage VC ( O ) with polarity as shown. Let the thyristor T1
be conducting and carry a load current I L . If the thyristor T1 is to be turned off, T2 is
fired. The capacitor voltage comes across T1 , T1 is reverse biased and it turns off. Now
the capacitor starts charging through T2 and the load. The capacitor voltage reaches V
with top plate being positive. By this time the capacitor charging current (current through
T2 ) would have reduced to zero and T2 automatically turns off. Now T1 and T2 are both
off. Before firing T1 again, the capacitor voltage should be reversed. This is done by
turning on T3 , C discharges through T3 and L and the capacitor voltage reverses. The
waveforms are shown in figure 1.26.
G a t e p u l s e G a t e p u l s e G a t e p u l s e
o f2 T o f3 T o f1 T
t
V S
C a p a c i t o r
v o l t a g e
V C
tC
V o l t a g e1 a c r o s s T
t
V C
168
EXPRESSION FOR CIRCUIT TURN OFF TIME (AVAILABLE TURN OFF
TIME) tc
tc depends on the load current I L and is given by the expression
t
1 c
VC = ∫ I L dt
C0
I L tc
VC =
C
VC C
tc = seconds
IL
Note:
• T1 is turned off by applying a negative voltage across its terminals. Hence this is
voltage commutation.
• tc depends on load current. For higher load currents tc is small. This is a
disadvantage of this circuit.
• When T2 is fired, voltage across the load is V + VC ; hence the current through
load shoots up and then decays as the capacitor starts charging.
T 2
D
V
L
IL
R L
169
The working of the circuit can be explained as follows:
Initially let the voltage across the capacitor be VC ( O ) with the top plate positive.
Now T1 is triggered. Load current flows through T1 and load. At the same time, C
discharges through T1 , L and D (the current is ‘i’) and the voltage across C reverses i.e.,
the bottom plate becomes positive. The diode D ensures that the bottom plate of the
capacitor remains positive.
To turn off T1 , T2 is triggered; the voltage across the capacitor comes across T1 .
T1 is reverse biased and it turns off (voltage commutation). The capacitor now starts
charging through T2 and load. When it charges to V volts (with the top plate positive), the
current through T2 becomes zero and T2 automatically turns off.
The related waveforms are shown in figure 1.28.
G a t e p u l s e G a t e p u l s e
o f1 T o f2 T
t
V C
C a p a c i t o r
v o l t a g e
t
−V
tC
T h i s i s d u e t o i
IT 1
IL
C u r r e n t t h r o uV g h S C R
RL
t
2 V
R L
IL
L o a d c u r r e n t
V V o l t a g e1 a c r o s s T
tC
170
Problem 1.10: An impulse commutated thyristor circuit is shown in figure 1.29.
Determine the available turn off time of the circuit if V = 100 V, R = 10 Ω and C = 10
µ F. Voltage across capacitor before T2 is fired is V volts with polarity as shown.
+
T 1
-
C V C ( 0 )
V +
T 2 R
-
Fig. 1.29.
Solution
When T2 is triggered the circuit is as shown in figure 1.30.
V C ( O )
- + i ( t )
+
C
T 2
V R
Fig. 1.30.
1 V C ( 0 )
C s s
− + I ( s )
+
V R
s −
Fig. 1.31.
171
We have to obtain an expression for capacitor voltage. It is done as follows:
1
s
( V + VC ( 0 ) )
I ( S) =
1
R+
Cs
C ( V + VC ( 0 ) )
I ( S) =
1 + RCs
I ( S) =
( V + V ( 0) ) C
1
Rs +
RC
1 VC ( 0 )
Voltage across capacitor VC ( s ) = I ( s ) −
Cs s
1 V + VC ( 0 ) VC ( 0 )
VC ( s ) = −
RCs 1 s
s+
RC
V + VC ( 0 ) V + VC ( 0 ) VC ( 0 )
VC ( s ) = − −
s 1 s
s +
RC
V V V ( 0)
VC ( s ) = − − C
s s+ 1 s+
1
RC RC
(
vc ( t ) = V 1 − e
−t
RC
) − V ( 0) e
C
−t
RC
Therefore (
vc ( t ) = V 1 − 2e
−t
RC
)
The waveform of vc ( t ) is shown in figure 1.32.
172
V
vC ( t )
t
V C ( 0 )
tC
Fig. 1.32.
At t = tc , vc ( t ) = 0
− tc
Therefore 0 = V 1 − 2e RC
− tc
1 = 2e RC
1 − tc
= e RC
2
tc = RC ln ( 2 )
tc = 10 ×10 ×10−6 ln ( 2 )
tc = 69.3µ sec .
Problem 1.11 : In the commutation circuit shown in figure 1.33. C = 20 µ F, the input
voltage V varies between 180 and 220 V and the load current varies between 50 and 200
A. Determine the minimum and maximum values of available turn off time tc .
T1 I0
−
C V C (V 0 ) =
+
V
T 2
I0
Fig. 1.33.
173
Solution
It is given that V varies between 180 and 220 V and I O varies between 50 and
200 A.
The expression for available turn off time tc is given by
CV
tc =
IO
CVmax
Therefore tc max =
I O min
220
tc max = 20 × 10−6 × = 88µ sec
50
CVmin
and tc min =
I O max
180
tc min = 20 × 10−6 × = 18µ sec
200
T 1 T 2 L T 3
+
V S R 2 AV U X C V A U X
L
−
174
main thyristor T1 , thyristor T2 is turned ON. Then T1 is subjected to a reverse voltage
equal to VS − 2VAUX . This results in thyristor T1 being turned-off. Once T1 is off capacitor
‘C’ discharges through the load RL
L T 1
+ IL
T +
3
_ C L
F W OD
V S A
L r D
T 2
Figure 1.35 shows line side commutation circuit. Thyristor T2 is fired to charge
the capacitor ‘C’. When ‘C’ charges to a voltage of 2V, T2 is self commutated. To
reverse the voltage of capacitor to -2V, thyristor T3 is fired and T3 commutates by itself.
Assuming that T1 is conducting and carries a load current I L thyristor T2 is fired to turn
off T1 . The turning ON of T2 will result in forward biasing the diode (FWD) and applying
a reverse voltage of 2V across T1 . This turns off T1 , thus the discharging and recharging
of capacitor is done through the supply and the commutation circuit can be tested without
load.
175
DC CHOPPERS
INTRODUCTION
A chopper is a static device which is used to obtain a variable dc voltage from a
constant dc voltage source. A chopper is also known as dc-to-dc converter. The thyristor
converter offers greater efficiency, faster response, lower maintenance, smaller size and
smooth control. Choppers are widely used in trolley cars, battery operated vehicles,
traction motor control, control of large number of dc motors, etc….. They are also used in
regenerative braking of dc motors to return energy back to supply and also as dc voltage
regulators.
In step-down choppers, the output voltage will be less than the input voltage
whereas in step-up choppers output voltage will be more than the input voltage.
C h o p p e r
i0
+
V R V 0
−
Fig. 2.1: Step-down Chopper with Resistive Load
Figure 2.1 shows a step-down chopper with resistive load. The thyristor in the
circuit acts as a switch. When thyristor is ON, supply voltage appears across the load and
when thyristor is OFF, the voltage across the load will be zero. The output voltage and
current waveforms are as shown in figure 2.2.
176
v0
V
V d c
t
tO N tO F F
i0
V / R
Id c
t
T
t
Vdc = V ON = V .d ... ( 2.2 )
T
tON
but = d = duty cycle ... ( 2.3)
t
V tON V
I dc = = d ... ( 2.5 )
R T R
177
RMS value of output voltage
tON
1
VO = ∫ v dt
2
o
T 0
V2 t
VO = tON = ON .V ... ( 2.6 )
T T
VO = d .V ... ( 2.7 )
Output power PO = VO I O
VO
But IO =
R
VO2
Therefore output power PO =
R
dV 2
PO = ... ( 2.8 )
R
R
Ri = ... ( 2.10 )
d
The output voltage can be varied by varying the duty cycle.
METHODS OF CONTROL
The output dc voltage can be varied by the following methods.
• Pulse width modulation control or constant frequency operation.
• Variable frequency control.
178
V 0
tO N tO F F
t
T
V 0
t
tO N tO F F
v0
V
tO N tO F F
t
T
v0
tO N tO F F
t
T
179
STEP-DOWN CHOPPER WITH R-L LOAD
Figure 2.5 shows a step-down chopper with R-L load and free wheeling diode.
When chopper is ON, the supply is connected across the load. Current flows from the
supply to the load. When chopper is OFF, the load current iO continues to flow in the
same direction through the free-wheeling diode due to the energy stored in the inductor L.
The load current can be continuous or discontinuous depending on the values of L and
duty cycle, d. For a continuous current operation the load current is assumed to vary
between two limits I min and I max .
Figure 2.6 shows the output current and output voltage waveforms for a
continuous current and discontinuous current operation.
C h o p p e r
i0
+
R
V V
F W D L
0
E
−
Fig. 2.5: Step Down Chopper with R-L Load
v0
O u t p u t
v o l t a g e
V
tO N tO F F
t
T
i0 O u t p u t
Im a x
c u r r e n t
C o n t i n u o u s
Im i n c u r r e n t
t
i0 O u t p u t
c u r r e n t
D i s c o n t i n u o u s
c u r r e n t
t
Fig. 2.6: Output Voltage and Load Current Waveforms (Continuous Current)
180
When the current exceeds I max the chopper is turned-off and it is turned-on when
current reduces to I min .
i0
+
R
V V 0
L
E
-
Fig. 2.5 (a)
diO
V = iO R + L +E ... ( 2.11)
dt
V −E I
IO ( S ) = + min ... ( 2.13)
R R
LS S + S +
L L
V −E − t
R R
− t
iO ( t ) = 1 − e L
+ I min e
L
... ( 2.14 )
R
This expression is valid for 0 ≤ t ≤ tON . i.e., during the period chopper is ON.
iO ( tON ) = I max
181
When Chopper is OFF ( 0 ≤ t ≤ tOFF )
i0
diO
0 = RiO + L +E ... ( 2.15 )
dt
E
0 = RI O ( S ) + L SIO ( S ) − iO ( 0− ) +
S
I max E
IO ( S ) = −
Therefore R R
S+ LS S +
L L
The expression is valid for 0 ≤ t ≤ tOFF , i.e., during the period chopper is OFF. At
the instant the chopper is turned ON or at the end of the off period, the load current is
iO ( tOFF ) = I min
182
TO FIND I max AND I min
At t = tON = dT , iO ( t ) = I max
V −E −
dRT
−
dRT
Therefore I max = 1 − e L
+ I
min e L
... ( 2.17 )
R
t = tOFF = ( 1 − d ) T
( 1− d ) RT ( 1− d ) RT
− E −
Therefore I min = I max e L
− 1 − e L
... ( 2.18 )
R
−
dRT
V 1− e L − E
I max = ... ( 2.19 )
R −
RT R
1 − e L
dRT
V e L − 1 E
I min = − ... ( 2.20 )
R RTL R
e − 1
183
Assuming load current varies linearly from I min to I max instantaneous load current is
given by
iO = I min +
( ∆I ) .t for 0 ≤ t ≤ tON ( dT )
dT
I −I
iO = I min + max min t ... ( 2.23)
dT
( I max − I min ) t
2
1
dT
I O( RMS ) =
dT ∫0 I min + dT dt
dT 2
1 I max − I min
I CH =
T ∫
0
I min +
dT
t dt
1
2 ( I max − I min ) 2
2
184
Where I S = Average source current
I S = dI dc
V
Therefore Ri = ... ( 2.26 )
dI dc
I L D
+
+ −
L
C O V
V A O
D
C h o p p e r
Figure 2.13 shows a step-up chopper to obtain a load voltage VO higher than the
input voltage V. The values of L and C are chosen depending upon the requirement of
output voltage and current. When the chopper is ON, the inductor L is connected across
the supply. The inductor current ‘I’ rises and the inductor stores energy during the ON
time of the chopper, tON . When the chopper is off, the inductor current I is forced to flow
through the diode D and load for a period, tOFF . The current tends to decrease resulting in
reversing the polarity of induced EMF in L. Therefore voltage across load is given by
dI
VO = V + L i.e., VO > V ... ( 2.27 )
dt
If a large capacitor ‘C’ is connected across the load then the capacitor will provide
a continuous output voltage VO . Diode D prevents any current flow from capacitor to the
source. Step up choppers are used for regenerative braking of dc motors.
When Chopper is ON
Voltage across inductor L = V
185
Therefore energy stored in inductor = V .I .tON ... ( 2.28 ) ,
Voltage across L = VO − V
V [ tON + tOFF ]
VO =
tOFF
T
VO = V
T − tON
T = tON + tOFF
1
VO = V
t
1 − ON
T
1
Therefore VO = V ... ( 2.29 )
1− d
tON
Where d= = duty cyle
T
For variation of duty cycle ‘d’ in the range of 0 < d < 1 the output voltage VO will vary
in the range V < VO < ∞ .
PERFORMANCE PARAMETERS
The thyristor requires a certain minimum time to turn ON and turn OFF. Hence
duty cycle d can be varied only between a minimum and a maximum value, limiting the
minimum and maximum value of the output voltage. Ripple in the load current depends
inversely on the chopping frequency, f. Therefore to reduce the load ripple current,
frequency should be as high as possible.
186
CLASSIFICATION OF CHOPPERS
Choppers are classified as follows
• Class A Chopper
• Class B Chopper
• Class C Chopper
• Class D Chopper
• Class E Chopper
CLASS A CHOPPER
i0 v0
+
C h o p p e r
L
O v0 V
V A
F W D D
− i0
Figure 2.14 shows a Class A Chopper circuit with inductive load and free-
wheeling diode. When chopper is ON, supply voltage V is connected across the load i.e.,
vO = V and current i0 flows as shown in figure. When chopper is OFF, v0 = 0 and the
load current iO continues to flow in the same direction through the free wheeling diode.
Therefore the average values of output voltage and current i.e., vO and iO are always
positive. Hence, Class A Chopper is a first quadrant chopper (or single quadrant chopper).
Figure 2.15 shows output voltage and current waveforms for a continuous load current.
187
ig T h y r i s t o r
g a t e p u l s e
t
i0
O u t p u t c u r r e n t
C H O N
t
v0 F W D C o n d u c t s
O u t p u t v o l t a g e
t
tO N
T
Fig. 2.15: First quadrant Chopper - Output Voltage and Current Waveforms
CLASS B CHOPPER
D
i0 v0
+
R
V L v0
C h o p p e r
E − i0
−
188
B Chopper operates in second quadrant. In this chopper, power flows from load to source.
Class B Chopper is used for regenerative braking of dc motor. Figure 2.17 shows the
output voltage and current waveforms of a Class B Chopper.
The output current equations can be obtained as follows. During the interval diode
‘D’ conducts (chopper is off) voltage equation is given by
i0
+
D
C o n d u Rc t i n g
V V 0
L
E
-
LdiO
V= + RiO + E
dt
The solution of the above equation is obtained along similar lines as in step-down
chopper with R-L load
V −E − t
R R
− t
Therefore iO ( t ) = 1 − e L
+ I
min e L
0 < t < tOFF
R
At t = tOFF i( O ) ( t ) = I max
V −E − tOFF
R R
− tOFF
I max = 1 − e
L
+ Imin e
L
R
i0
+
R
C h o p p e r V 0
O N L
E
-
LdiO
0= + RiO + E
dt
189
Redefining the time origin, at t = 0 iO ( t ) = I max .
R
− t E − t
R
iO ( t ) = I max e L
− 1 − e L
0 < t < tON
R
At t = tON iO ( t ) = I min
R
− tON E − tON
R
ig
T h y r i s t o r
g a t e p u l s e
t
i0 tO F F tO N
T
t
O u t p u t c u r r e n t
Im a x
Im i n D
c o n d C u h c o t sp p e r
c o n d u c t s
v0 O u t p u t v o l t a g e
CLASS C CHOPPER
Class C Chopper is a combination of Class A and Class B Choppers. Figure 2.18
shows a Class C two quadrant Chopper circuit. For first quadrant operation, CH1 is ON
or D2 conducts and for second quadrant operation, CH 2 is ON or D1 conducts. When
CH1 is ON, the load current iO is positive. i.e., iO flows in the direction as shown in
figure 2.18.
The output voltage is equal to V ( vO = V ) and the load receives power from the
source.
190
C 1 H D 1
i0 v0
+
V R
C 2 H D L v0
2
C h o p p e r
i0
E
−
through the diode D2 and the output voltage vO = 0 , but iO continues to flow in positive
direction. When CH 2 is triggered, the voltage E forces iO to flow in opposite direction
through L and CH 2 . The output voltage vO = 0 . On turning OFF CH 2 , the energy stored
in the inductance drives current through diode D1 and the supply; output voltage vO = V
the input current becomes negative and power flows from load to source.
Thus the average output voltage vO is positive but the average output current iO
can take both positive and negative values. Choppers CH1 and CH 2 should not be turned
ON simultaneously as it would result in short circuiting the supply. Class C Chopper can
be used both for dc motor control and regenerative braking of dc motor. Figure 2.19
shows the output voltage and current waveforms.
ig 1
G a t e p u l s e
o f 1C H
t
ig 2 G a t e p u l s e
o f 2C H
t
i0
O u t p u t c u r r e n t
t
D 1 C 1 H D 2 C 2 H D 1 C 1 H D 2 C 2 H
O N O N O N O N
V 0 O u t p u t v o l t a g e
191
CLASS D CHOPPER
v0
C 1 H D 2
R i0 L E
V
+ v0 − i0
D 1 C 2 H
t
ig 2 G a t e p u l s e
o f 2C H
t
i0
O u t p u t c u r r e n t
t
C 1H , C 2 DH 1 , D 2 C o n d u c t i n g
O N
v0 O u t p u t v o l t a g e
V
A v e v r0 a g e
t
Fig. 2.21: Output Voltage and Current Waveforms for tON > tOFF
192
ig 1
G a t e p u l s e
o f 1C H
t
ig 2 G a t e p u l s e
o f 2C H
t
i0
O u t p u t c u r r e n
C 1H
C 2H
t
D 1 , D 2
v0 O u t p u t v o l t a g e
V
t
A v e v r0 a g e
Fig. 2.22: Output Voltage and Current Waveforms for tON < tOFF
CLASS E CHOPPER
C 1 H D C 3 H D
1 3
i0 R L E
V
+ −
v0
C 2 H D C 4 H D
2 4
193
v0
C 2H - 4D C C 1 H o n d - u C c 4 Ht s O N
D 1 - D 4 C C o 4 H n d u- 2c D t s C o n d u c t s
i0
C 3H - C D2 H2 - O D N3 C o n d u c t s
C 2H - 4D C C 4H o n d- u2 D c t s C o n d u c t s
Figure 2.23 shows a class E 4 quadrant chopper circuit. When CH1 and CH 4 are
triggered, output current iO flows in positive direction as shown in figure 2.23 through
CH1 and CH 4 , with output voltage vO = V . This gives the first quadrant operation. When
both CH1 and CH 4 are OFF, the energy stored in the inductor L drives iO through D3
and D2 in the same direction, but output voltage vO = −V . Therefore the chopper
operates in the fourth quadrant. For fourth quadrant operation the direction of battery
must be reversed. When CH 2 and CH 3 are triggered, the load current iO flows in
opposite direction and output voltage vO = −V .
Since both iO and vO are negative, the chopper operates in third quadrant. When
both CH 2 and CH 3 are OFF, the load current iO continues to flow in the same direction
through D1 and D4 and the output voltage vO = V . Therefore the chopper operates in
second quadrant as vO is positive but iO is negative. Figure 2.23(a) shows the devices
which are operative in different quadrants.
Problem 2.1 : For the first quadrant chopper shown in figure 2.24, express the following
variables as functions of V, R and duty cycle ‘d’ in case load is resistive.
• Average output voltage and current
• Output current at the instant of commutation
• Average and rms free wheeling diode current.
• RMS value of output voltage
• RMS and average thyristor currents.
194
i0
+
C h o p p e r
L
O v0
V F W D A
D
−
Fig. 6.24.
Solution
tON
• Average output voltage, Vdc = V = dV
T
Vdc dV
Average output current, I dc = =
R R
• Free wheeling diode (FWD) will never conduct in a resistive load. Therefore
average and RMS free wheeling diode currents are zero.
tON
1
= ∫V
2
VO( RMS ) dt
T 0
t
VO( RMS ) = V 2 ON
T
VO( RMS ) = dV
tON
Where duty cycle, d=
T
195
• RMS value of thyristor current
= RMS value of load current
VO( RMS )
=
R
dV
=
R
dV
=
R
Solution
V = 460 V, Vdc = 350 V, f = 2 kHz
1
Chopping period T=
f
1
T= = 0.5 m sec
2 ×10−3
t
Output voltage Vdc = ON V
T
Problem 2.3 : Input to the step up chopper is 200 V. The output required is 600 V. If the
conducting time of thyristor is 200 µ ssec. Compute
• Chopping frequency,
• If the pulse width is halved for constant frequency of operation, find the new
output voltage.
196
Solution
V = 200 V, tON = 200 µ s , Vdc = 600V
T
Vdc = V
T − tON
T
600 = 200 −6
T − 200 ×10
Solving for T
T = 300 µ s
• Chopping frequency
1
f =
T
1
f = = 3.33KHz
300 × 10−6
200 ×10−6
Therefore tON = = 100 µ s
2
Frequency is constant
Therefore f = 3.33KHz
1
T= = 300 µ s
f
T
Therefore output voltage =V
T − tON
300 ×10−6
= 200 = 300 Volts
−6
( 300 − 100 ) 10
Problem 2.4: A dc chopper has a resistive load of 20Ω and input voltage VS = 220V .
When chopper is ON, its voltage drop is 1.5 volts and chopping frequency is 10 kHz. If
the duty cycle is 80%, determine the average output voltage and the chopper on time.
197
Solution
VS = 220V , R = 20Ω , f = 10 kHz
tON
d= = 0.80
T
t
Vdc = ON ( VS − Vch )
T
1
Chopping period, T=
f
1
T= = 0.1×10−3 secs = 100 μsecs
10 ×10 3
Chopper ON time,
tON = dT
Problem 2.5: In a dc chopper, the average load current is 30 Amps, chopping frequency
is 250 Hz. Supply voltage is 110 volts. Calculate the ON and OFF periods of the chopper
if the load resistance is 2 ohms.
Solution
I dc = 30 Amps , f = 250 Hz, V = 110 V, R = 2Ω
1 1
Chopping period, T= = = 4 × 10−3 = 4 msecs
f 250
Vdc
I dc = and Vdc = dV
R
dV
Therefore I dc =
R
198
I dc R 30 × 2
d= = = 0.545
V 110
−3
Chopper ON period, tON = dT = 0.545 × 4 ×10 = 2.18 msecs
Problem 2.6: A dc chopper in figure 2.25 has a resistive load of R = 10Ω and input
voltage of V = 200 V. When chopper is ON, its voltage drop is 2 V and the chopping
frequency is 1 kHz. If the duty cycle is 60%, determine
• Average output voltage
• RMS value of output voltage
• Effective input resistance of chopper
• Chopper efficiency.
C h o p p e r
i0
+
V R v0
−
Fig. 2.25
Solution
199
• Effective input resistance of chopper is
V V
Ri = =
I S I dc
Vdc 118.8
I dc = = = 11.88 Amps
R 10
V V 200
Ri = = = = 16.83Ω
I S I dc 11.88
• Output power is
dT
1 v02
PO =
T ∫
0
R
dt
( V − Vch )
dT 2
1
PO =
T ∫
0
R
dt
d ( V − Vch )
2
PO =
R
0.6 [ 200 − 2]
2
PO = = 2352.24 watts
10
dT
1
• Input power, Pi =
T ∫ Vi dt
0
O
1
dT
V ( V − Vch )
PO =
T ∫
0
R
dt
• Chopper efficiency,
P
η = O × 100
Pi
2352.24
η= ×100 = 99%
2376
Problem 2.7: A chopper is supplying an inductive load with a free-wheeling diode. The
load inductance is 5 H and resistance is 10Ω . The input voltage to the chopper is 200
200
volts and the chopper is operating at a frequency of 1000 Hz. If the ON/OFF time ratio is
2:3. Calculate
• Maximum and minimum values of load current in one cycle of chopper operation.
• Average load current
Solution:
L = 5 H, R = 10 Ω , f = 1000 Hz, V = 200 V, tON : tOFF = 2 : 3
1 1
Chopping period, T= = = 1 msecs
f 1000
tON 2
=
tOFF 3
2
tON = tOFF
3
T = tON + tOFF
2
T = tOFF + tOFF
3
5
T = tOFF
3
3
tOFF = T
5
3
T = × 1×10−3 = 0.6 msec
5
tON = T − tOFF
• Refer equations (2.19) and (2.20) for expressions of I max and I min .
Maximum value of load current [equation (2.19)] is
−
dRT
V 1 − e L − E
I max =
R −
RT R
1 − e
L
201
Since there is no voltage source in the load circuit, E = 0
−
dRT
V 1 − e L
Therefore I max =
R −
RT
1 − e L
−3
0.4×10×1×10
−
200 1 − e 5
I max =
10 −
10×1×10 −3
1 − e 5
1 − e −0.8×10
−3
I max = 20 −2×10−3
1 − e
I max = 8.0047A
dRT
V e L − 1
I min =
R RTL
e − 1
0.4×10×1×10
−3
200 e 5
− 1
I min = = 7.995 A
10 10×1×510
−3
e − 1
8.0047 + 7.995
I dc = ≈8 A
2
Problem 2.8 : A chopper feeding on RL load is shown in figure 2.26. With V = 200 V, R
= 5Ω , L = 5 mH, f = 1 kHz, d = 0.5 and E = 0 V. Calculate
• Maximum and minimum values of load current
• Average value of load current
• RMS load current
• Effective input resistance as seen by source
• RMS chopper current.
Solution
V = 200 V, R = 5 Ω , L = 5 mH, f = 1kHz, d = 0.5, E = 0
202
1 1
Chopping period is T = = = 1× 10−3 secs
f 1× 10 3
C h o p p e r
i0
+
R
v0
F W D L
E
−
Fig.: 2.26
Refer equations (2.19) and (2.20) for expressions of I max and I min .
3
0.5×5×1×10
−
200 1 − e 5×10
−3
I max = −0
5 −
5×1×10 −3
1 − e 5×10−3
1 − e −0.5
I max = 40 −1
= 24.9 A
1− e
0.5×5×1×−10
−3
200 e 5×10 − 1
3
I min = −0
5 5×1×10−3
−3
e 5×10 − 1
e0.5 − 1
I min = 40 1 = 15.1 A
e −1
203
24.9 + 15.1
Therefore I dc = = 20 A
2
Refer equations (2.24) and (2.25) for RMS load current and RMS chopper current.
1
( 24.9 − 15.1) 2
2
I O( RMS ) = 15.1 +
2
+ 15.1( 24.9 − 15.1)
3
1
96.04 2
I O( RMS ) = 228.01 + + 147.98 = 20.2 A
3
I S = dI dc
I S = 0.5 × 20 = 10 A
V 200
Ri = = = 20Ω
IS 10
Problem 2.9: A 200 V dc motor fed by a chopper, runs at 1000 rpm with a duty ratio of
0.8. What must be the ON time of the chopper if the motor has to run at 800 rpm. The
chopper operates at 100 Hz.
Solution
Speed of motor N1 = 1000 rpm
Duty ratio d1 = 0.8 , f = 100 Hz
204
We know that back EMF of motor Eb is given by
φ ZNP
Eb =
60 A
Therefore Eb α φ N
Eb α N if flux φ is constant
C h o p p e r
Ia
+
R a
V V d c +
M E b
−
−
Fig. 2.27
Eb = Vdc − I a Ra
Vdc1 = d1V
Vdc1
Supply, V=
d1
200
V=
0.8
V = 250 Volts
205
Eb1 α N1
Eb 2 α N 2
200 1000
=
Eb2 800
800 × 200
Eb2 = = 160 V
1000
Vdc2 160
d2 = = = 0.64
V 250
T = 10 msecs
tON
= d2
T
ON time of chopper
tON = d 2T
206
IMPULSE COMMUTATED CHOPPER
Impulse commutated choppers are widely used in high power circuits where load
fluctuation is not large. This chopper is also known as parallel capacitor turn-off chopper
or voltage commutated chopper or classical chopper.
Fig. 2.28 shows an impulse commutated chopper with two thyristors T1 and T2.
We shall assume that the load current remains constant at a value IL during the
commutation process.
L S
T 1 iT 1
+ a + IL +
b _ C T 2
iC F W D
L
O
V S A vO
D
L D
_ 1 _
Fig. 2.28
To start the circuit, capacitor ‘C’ is initially charged with polarity (with plate ‘a’
positive) as shown in the fig. 2.28 by triggering the thyristor T2. Capacitor ‘C’ gets
charged through ‘VS’, ‘C’, T2 and load. As the charging current decays to zero thyristor T2
will be turned-off. With capacitor charged with plate ‘a’ positive the circuit is ready for
operation. For convenience the chopper operation is divided into five modes.
MODE – 1
Thyristor T1 is fired at t = 0. The supply voltage comes across the load. Load
current IL flows through T1 and load. At the same time capacitor discharges through T1,
D1, L1, and ‘C’ and the capacitor reverses its voltage. This reverse voltage on capacitor is
held constant by diode D1. Fig. 2.29 shows the equivalent circuit of Mode 1.
L S
T 1
+ + IL
V C _ C iC
L
V S
O
A
D
L D 1
_
Fig. 2.29
207
Capacitor Discharge Current
C
iC ( t ) = V sin ω t
L
C
iC ( t ) = I P sin ω t ; where I P = V
L
1
Where ω=
LC
VC ( t ) = V cos ω t
MODE – 2
Thyristor T2 is now fired to commutate thyristor T1. When T2 is ON capacitor
voltage reverse biases T1 and turns it off. Now the capacitor discharges through the load
from –VS to 0 and the discharge time is known as circuit turn-off time.
VC × C
tC =
IL
Where IL is load current.
Since tC depends on load current, it must be designed for the worst case condition
which occur at the maximum value of load current and minimum value of capacitor
voltage.
Then the capacitor recharges back to the supply voltage (with plate ‘a’ positive).
This time is called the recharging time and is given by
VS × C
td =
IL
The total time required for the capacitor to discharge and recharge is called the
commutation time and it is given by
tr = tC + td
At the end of Mode-2 capacitor has recharged to ‘VS’ and the free wheeling diode
starts conducting. The equivalent circuit for Mode-2 is shown in fig. 2.30.
208
IL
+ L S _ IL
V C C L
V + T O
S 2 A
D
_
Fig. 2.30.
MODE – 3
Free wheeling diode FWD starts conducting and the load current decays. The
energy stored in source inductance LS is transferred to capacitor. Instantaneous current is
i ( t ) = I L cos ω t Hence capacitor charges to a voltage higher than supply voltage. T2
naturally turns-off.
LS
VC ( t ) = VS + I L sin ωS t
C
1
Where ωS =
LS C
IL
+ L S + IL
V S _ C T 2 L
V O
S A
F W DD
_
Fig. 2.31
MODE – 4
Since the capacitor has been overcharged i.e. its voltage is above supply voltage it
starts discharging in reverse direction. Hence capacitor current becomes negative. The
capacitor discharges through LS, VS, FWD, D1 and L. When this current reduces to zero
D1 will stop conducting and the capacitor voltage will be same as the supply voltage fig.
2.32 shows in equivalent circuit of Mode – 4.
209
L S
+ + IL
V C _ C L
D 1 O
V S A
L D
_ F W D
Fig. 2.32
MODE – 5
In mode 5 both thyristors are off and the load current flows through the free
wheeling diode (FWD). This mode will end once thyristor T1 is fired. The equivalent
circuit for mode 5 is shown in fig. 2.33
IL
L
F W DO
A
D
Fig. 2.33
Fig. 2.34 shows the current and voltage waveforms for a voltage commutated
chopper.
210
ic C a p a c i t o r C u r r e n t
IL
0 t
Ip
iT 1
Ip
IL C u r r e n 1t t h r o u g h T
t
0
vT 1
Vc V o l t a g 1e a c r o s s T
t
0
vo
V s+ V c
Vs O u t p u t V o l t a g e
t
vc
Vc
t
C a p a c i t o r V o l t a g e
- Vc
tc
td
Fig. 2.34
211
Jone’s Chopper
+
T 1 C
T −
2
D
V L 2
L 1
+
R
v0
F W D
L
−
Fig. 2.35: Jone’s Chopper
Figure 2.35 shows a Jone’s Chopper circuit for an inductive load with free
wheeling diode. Jone’s Chopper is an example of class D commutation. Two thyristors
are used, T1 is the main thyristor and T2 is the auxiliary thyristor. Commutating circuit
for T1 consists of thyristor T2, capacitor C, diode D and autotransformer (L1 and L2).
Initially thyristor T2 is turned ON and capacitor C is charged to a voltage V with a
polarity as shown in figure 2.35. As C charges, the charging current through thyristor T2
decays exponentially and when current falls below holding current level, thyristor T 2
turns OFF by itself. When thyristor T1 is triggered, load current flows through thyristor
T1, L2 and load. The capacitor discharges through thyristor T1, L1 and diode D. Due to
resonant action of the auto transformer inductance L2 and capacitance C, the voltage
across the capacitor reverses after some time.
It is to be noted that the load current in L1 induces a voltage in L2 due to
autotransformer action. Due to this voltage in L2 in the reverse direction, the capacitor
charges to a voltage greater than the supply voltage. (The capacitor now tries to discharge
in opposite direction but it is blocked by diode D and hence capacitor maintains the
reverse voltage across it). When thyristor T1 is to be commutated, thyristor T2 is turned
ON resulting in connecting capacitor C directly across thyristor T1. Capacitor voltage
reverse biases thyristor T1 and turns it off. The capacitor again begins to charge through
thyristor T2 and the load for the next cycle of operation.
The various waveforms are shown in figure 2.36
212
Ig G a t e p 2 u l s e o f GT a t e p 1 u l s e o f T G a t e p 2 u l s e o f T
V C
+ V C a p a c i t o r V o l t a g e
R e s o n a n t a c t i o n
−V
A u t o t r a n s f o r m e r a c t i o n
tC
C a p a c i t o r
d i s c h a r g e c u r r e n t
C u r r e1 n t o f T
IL
V o l t a g e1 a c r o s s T
IL
tC
213