Abstract
The modular multilevel matrix converter is a relatively new power converter topology suitable for high-power alternating current (AC)-to-AC applications. Several publications in the literature have highlighted the converter capabilities, such as full modularity, fault-redundancy, control flexibility and input/output power quality. However, the topology and control of this converter are relatively complex to realise, considering that the converter has a large number of power-cells and floating capacitors. To the best of the authors’ knowledge, there are no review papers where the applications of the modular multilevel matrix converter are discussed. Hence, this paper aims to provide a comprehensive review of the state-of-the-art of the modular multilevel matrix converter, focusing on implementation issues and applications. Guidelines to dimensioning the key components of this converter are described and compared to other modular multilevel topologies, highlighting the versatility and controllability of the converter in high-power applications. Additionally, the most popular applications for the modular multilevel matrix converter, such as wind turbines, grid connection and motor drives, are discussed based on analyses of simulation and experimental results. Finally, future trends and new opportunities for the use of the modular multilevel matrix converter in high-power AC-to-AC applications are identified.
Highlights
The capacitor voltage (CCV) of a generic xy cluster must satisfy the following restriction: vCxy ≥ Vm + Vg + Vn = VC,min where VC,min is the minimum voltage required in the CCVs and Vn is the amplitude of the common-mode voltage (CMV)
The matrix converter (M3 C) is a relatively new power converter topology proposed as a future technological solution for high-power alternating current (AC)-to-AC applications
Its inherent control and hardware complexity, plus the newness of the topology, are the main reasons why there are just about six research groups which have succeeded in realising experimental validation of control strategies related to the M3 C
Summary
Modular multilevel cascaded converters (MMCCs) have attracted considerable attention from the power electronic and drive research community since its introduction at the beginning of the 2000s [1]. In this operating point, lower circulating currents and common-mode voltage are required to mitigate the capacitor’s voltage oscillations compared with those typically required in the M2 C [8,21] This advantage makes the M3 C a promising topology for high-power variable-speed drive applications, such as medium-voltage motor drives [8,21,31], gearless Semi-Autogenous Grinding (SAG) mills [32], offshore wind-power generators [27] and full-electric marine propulsion systems [33], where the M3 C can substitute the line-commutated converters to reduce current harmonics, to improve the power factor and to increase the efficiency and flexibility. An appraisal of the applications discussed in this paper is presented in the conclusions
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