Single Phase T-Type Multilevel Inverters for Renewable Energy Systems, Topology, Modulation, and Control Techniques: A Review

Abstract

Multilevel inverters (MLI) consist of a wide range of power converters. They have many designs and have been introduced with different circuit topologies such as neutral point clamped, diode clamped, cascaded H-bridges, and flying capacitors. Some of these MLIs have disadvantages, including design complexity, size, and losses due to the large number of switching devices required when they produce many output voltage levels. They are also bulky in size and may require several DC power sources. This paper presents a review of the various topologies of single-phase T-Type MLIs (T-MLIs). These MLIs are used to convert DC power from renewable energy sources (RES)” into AC with a near-sine waveform and low total harmonic distortion (THD). Simple and complex MLI designs are discussed. The major types of modulation techniques are discussed, including sinusoidal pulse width modulation (SPWM), selective harmonic elimination (SHE), and preprogrammed PWM. Various methods of output voltage control are taken into consideration as well. The aim of this comprehensive survey is to identify T-MLIs for researchers and those interested in the power conversion field, as well as to discuss the many topologies, identifying designs with superior characteristics that can be efficiently implemented with RESs to obtain better AC voltage with enhanced power quality.