Influence of the phase number of a synchronous generator connected to a three phase power grid via a natural commutated matrix converter (NCMC)

This paper deals with a new power generation topology which uses a synchronous generator with more than three phases and a natural commutated matrix converter used as a frequency changer. It replaces the classical mechanical reducer, which introduces many drawbacks. Ability to make auto start-up of the power plant by elimination of the turbine start-up system is also another major idea for this system. The matrix converter used, which operates at natural commutation is composed with thyristors. A five-phase synchronous machine is compared with a four-phase one on the point of view of harmonic disturbance, modeling of the matrix converter and power exchanges.