Reduction of low-frequency harmonics in modular multilevel converters (MMCs) by harmonic function analysis

Abstract

Modular multilevel converter (MMC) is troubled by the inherent second harmonic of single-phase ac power. By adding feedforward to the modulation signal, low-frequency harmonic voltages are significantly reduced thus overcoming an important weakness of MMC. Capacitors of sub-modules do not have to be over-sized. If desired for protection, transformers can be wye-connected with grounded neutral. The reduction method is based on harmonic function analysis. In addition to deriving algebraic formulae of harmonic voltage components of 'open loop' control, this study makes original contributions by deriving formulae which include feedforward control. Analytical insights from the formulae have shown the way to design feedforward methods to reduce low-frequency harmonics. Validation is by simulations using SIMULINK/MATLAB. © The Institution of Engineering and Technology 2014.