Analysis of a high-power-quality converter for 1-phase to 3-phase mains supply extension

Utilities often provide power supply via standard 1-phase low-voltage AC feeders, at least in the range up to several kVA. In rural areas and developing countries, even MV 1-phase distribution grids are sometimes used. Nevertheless, 3-phase load appliances are often preferable: in such case, apparatuses able to effectively convert 1-phase feeders into standard 3-phase supplies are then required. After a brief recall of the few specific solutions available in the literature, this paper focuses on the 3-and 4- wires variants of a recently proposed converter aimed to achieve low complexity, full reversibility and high power quality. Its power structure and control strategies are described, recalling also analytical and simulation models. A theoretical steady state analysis, design considerations and several simulation results are reported and commented, confirming the good performances achieved also under unfavorable conditions.