A Novel Three-Dimensional Sigma–Delta Modulation for High-Switching-Frequency Three-Phase Four-Wire Active Power Filters

Abstract

This article presents a new modulation technique called three-dimensional sigma–delta (3D-ΣΔ) modulation for high-frequency three-leg four-wire voltage source converters (VSCs) that use wide-bandgap (WBG) semiconductors. These WBG devices allow for the use of high switching frequencies with a greater efficiency than silicon devices. The proposed 3D-ΣΔ technique enables operation at a variable switching frequency, resulting in a significant reduction in switching losses compared to classical pulse-width modulation (PWM) techniques. Moreover, the 3D-ΣΔ technique uses a fast-processing 3D quantiser that simplifies implementation and considerably reduces computational costs. The behaviour of the 3D-ΣΔ modulation is analysed using MATLAB/Simulink and PLECS. The experimental results performed on an active power filter that uses silicon carbide (SiC) MOSFETs demonstrate an improvement in converter efficiency compared to the conventional SPWM technique. Additionally, the experimental results show how 3D-ΣΔ allows for the compensation of harmonics and homopolar currents, thereby balancing the electrical grid currents. The experiments also show that the proposed 3D-ΣΔ modulation outperforms an SPWM technique in terms of power quality, since the former achieves a larger reduction in the harmonic content of the power grid. In conclusion, the proposed modulation technique is an attractive option for improving the performance of four-wire converters in active power filter applications.