Title :
Insulated-Gate Bipolar Transistor Rectifiers: Why They Are Not Used in Traction Power Substations
Author_Institution :
VG Controls Inc., Vernon, NJ, USA
Abstract :
Insulated-gate bipolar transistors (IGBTs) are widely used in high-power converters. The definite advantages of IGBT rectifiers [also called pulsewidth modulation (PWM ) rectifiers] are zero reactive power, low harmonics, and inherent power recuperation capability. However, stationary traction rectifiers are built with either thyristors or diodes, not with IGBTs. This article compares IGBT and thyristor rectifiers and analyzes the factors precluding the use of IGBT rectifiers at traction power substations.
Keywords :
PWM rectifiers; insulated gate bipolar transistors; reactive power; substations; traction power supplies; IGBT rectifiers; PWM rectifiers; high-power converters; inherent power recuperation; insulated-gate bipolar transistor rectifiers; pulsewidth modulation rectifiers; thyristor rectifiers; traction power substations; zero reactive power; Impedance; Insulated gate bipolar transistors; Pulse width modulation; Reactive power; Rectifiers; Switching loss; Voltage control;
Journal_Title :
Vehicular Technology Magazine, IEEE
DOI :
10.1109/MVT.2014.2333762
