Harmonic research in direct AC - AC variable frequency power converter

Abstract

Direct AC-AC converter circuit termed as cyclo-converter converts fixed AC voltage, fixed frequency into variable AC voltage, variable frequency without using intermediate DC link. Cyclo-converter generates considerable harmonics when operated at variable frequency and load. The impact of harmonics is studied at multiples of lower order frequencies and firing angle. Simulation studies are performed and harmonic spectrum, Total Harmonic Distortion (THD) are diagnosed by employing MATLAB/SIMULINK platform. The Hardware prototype is implemented and the voltage waveform, harmonic profile is analyzed in real time using power logger.