Mathematical analysis and experiment validation of modular multilevel converters

Abstract

This paper describes operating and capacitor voltage balancing of the modular multilevel converter. The paper focuses on sizing of the cell capacitor and establishes approximate expressions for the capacitor voltage. Simulations and experiments results obtained from three-level modular converter are used to demonstrate its viability in medium voltage applications. It is shown that the modular converter can operate over the full modulation index linear range independent of load power factor.