Multi converter approach to active power filtering using current source converters

Active power filtering is performed by detecting the line current and volta ge signals, generating a current equal-but-opposite to the distortion curre nt using a power converter and injecting the compensating current into the power line. In such applications, it is desirable to combine high power and high switching frequency while minimizing the losses, This asks for specia l converter topologies and control techniques. In this paper, a multi-conve rter active power-line filter, based on current-source converter (CSC) modu les, is proposed, The power rating and switching frequency of each CSC modu le is equal to those required for the filtering job divided by the number o f modules, The control system utilizes two linear adaptive neurons (ADALINE 's) to process the signals obtained from the line. The first ADALINE (the C urrent ADALINE) extracts the harmonic components of the distorted line curr ent signal and the second ADALINE (the Voltage ADALINE) estimates the funda mental component of the line voltage signal, The outputs of both ADALINE's are used to construct the modulating signals of the filter modules. The pro posed modular active filter offers the following advantage: 1) high efficie ncy due to low conduction and switching losses; 2) high reliability and 3) high serviceability, The proposed active power-line filter treats the ac sy stem on a per-phase basis, has fast response and adapts to the load variati ons, Theoretical expectations are verified by digital simulation using EMTD C simulation package.