Advanced multilevel converter applied to an open-ends induction machine: Analysis, implementation and loss evaluation

This paper studies the performance of the dual 3-level T-type converter topology, as an advanced 5-level converter, applied to an open-ends induction machine. The performance is evaluated based on harmonic analysis, converter power loss and the steady-state machine performance. An advanced technique based on space-vector pulse-width modulation is proposed to reduce the converter switching stress as well as switching losses. A simulation based on a Matlab/Simulink program for the proposed topology as well as for some conventional multilevel converter topologies is performed. A practical implementation, based on a field-programmable gate array, for the proposed topology is presented, discussed and analyzed. A comparison between experimental and simulation results is conducted. The results show that the advanced topology reduces the harmonic content, the machine torque ripple, and the overall drive losses compared to three-level converters. Also, the proposed topology and the proposed switching technique reduce the converter losses by 40% compared to conventional five-level diode clamped converter.