Power Electronics & Converters
The Power Electronics and Converters department develops innovative power conversion solutions for HVDC and MVDC applications. In HVDC we focus on solutions for electricity transmission networks covering AC/DC and DC/DC converters, large buffer storage systems, and power flow controllers. In MVDC we study and develop technologies for distribution networks, with a focus on protection, DC/DC converters, and energy storage systems.
The department conducts research on topologies and controls for power converters and their associated technologies, such as medium frequency transformers, silicon carbide (SiC) components and switching cells. Other research topics include condition and health monitoring, as well as digital twin modelling applied to power converters.
Advanced testing facilities enable us to perform full characterisation tests on power components up to many kVolts and kAmps, as well as back-to-back converter testing combined with a 100 kW deionised water cooling heat exchanger.
Our research includes:
Recent publications
Endurance Test on Nomex 410 to Assess Partial Discharge Activity under High dv/dt Square Voltage
This study evaluates Partial Discharge Activity in Nomex 410 insulation exposed to high dv/dt square voltage. Based on endurance testing and UHF measurements, the results show that Partial Discharge Activity significantly reduces insulation lifetime in medium-frequency transformers.
Reduction of Passive Components in Quasi-2-Level Operated MMC for MVDC DAB Converter
This paper presents a Quasi-2-Level operated MMC for MVDC DAB converters. The proposed design reduces passive components while maintaining Zero-Voltage Switching through frequency adaptation and optimized converter design.
Thermal Measurement of Asymmetric Losses in a Submodule of an Isolated Modular Multilevel DC-DC Converter
This study experimentally quantifies asymmetric losses in an Isolated Modular Multilevel DC-DC Converter (IM2DC) submodule, showing that low-side devices can dissipate up to twice the losses of high-side devices. A thermal imaging-based calorimetric method provides accurate, nonintrusive measurements, supporting future optimization of converter design, thermal management, and reliability.
