PV micro-inverter topology using LLC resonant converter

Abstract

In this paper, a DC-single-phase AC power converter with an LLC resonant converter is presented for a photovoltaic (PV) micro-inverter application. This application requires the leakage current suppression capability. Therefore, an isolated power converter is usually combined for DC/AC systems. The LLC resonant converter is the one of the isolated power converter topologies, and it has good performance for conversion efficiency with easy control. On the other hand, a double-line frequency power ripple has to be compensated for in order to improve the performance of the maximum power point tracking (MPPT). Therefore, a bulky electrolytic capacitor is usually necessary for the power converter. However, the electrolytic capacitor may limit the lifetime of the micro-inverter. This paper introduces the PV micro-inverter with a LLC resonant converter. In addition, the active power decoupling circuit is applied in order to compensate the double-line frequency power ripple by the small capacitor in order to eliminate the electrolytic capacitor. Finally, the transformer design is considered in order to reduce the transformer losses. As a result, the conversion efficiency of the LLC converter is improved by 1% when the litz wire has many strands.