Analysis of Plasma Reactor Interaction with the Power Grid Depending on the Power Supply Design

Abstract

In this paper, the collaboration of a GlidArc-type plasma reactor with four dedicated power supplies was analysed. Each power supply is characterised by a different design solution. Plasma generation by electrical discharge requires a careful analysis of the power supply design, its operating characteristics, currents, voltages and frequencies. Although the power supplies tested have similar abilities and provide similar power supply parameters, different plasma reactor performance characteristics are obtained for each of them. The results indicate that some power supply parameters were overestimated or underestimated at the design stage. Some of the power supplies tested under plasma reactor load also show poor interaction with the mains. The interaction of the power supplies with the plasma reactor and the mains supply is strongly influenced by the type of plasma gas. Analyses indicate that an optimally designed power supply should combine the solutions contained in each of the power supplies tested.