Implementation of a stepped down frequency eight switches matrix converter suitable for microturbine generation

Abstract

In this study, a three-phase to three-phase matrix converter with eight switches in each phase is presented. In addition, a simple switching strategy is used to control switches based on the comparison of a reference output voltage value with 12 voltage values obtained from input voltage. One advantage of the simple switching approach is that it is suitable to step down input voltage frequency. So, it is applicable to interface microturbine generation and load. This converter can boost input voltage amplitude with variable reduced frequency with respect to conventional matrix converter using a simple switching technique. Other advantages of the suggested converter is that it is possible to obtain a voltage with low total harmonic distortion by applying the stated switching method as compared to conventional matrix converter. Simulation and experimental results are shown to validate the capability of the suggested converter in the boosting of input voltage at a variable frequency. © The Institution of Engineering and Technology 2014.