Evolution of Power Converter Topologies and Technical Considerations of Power Electronic Transformer-Based Rolling Stock Architectures

Abstract

Power electronic transformer (PET) technology is one of the promising technology for medium/high power conversion systems. With the cutting-edge improvements in the power electronics and magnetics, makes it possible to substitute conventional line frequency transformer traction (LFTT) technology with the PET technology. Over the past years, research and field trial studies are conducted to explore the technical challenges associated with the operation, functionalities, and control of PET-based traction systems. This paper aims to review the essential requirements, technical challenges, and the existing state of the art of PET traction system architectures. Finally, this paper discusses technical considerations and introduces the new research possibilities especially in the power conversion stages, PET design, and the power switching devices.