Multilevel inverter-based dual-frequency power supply

Most existing power supplies for induction heating equipment produce voltage at a single (adjustable) frequency. Recently, however, induction heating power supplies that produce voltage at two (adjustable) frequencies simultaneously have been introduced and commercialized. These represent a significant development particularly for heat-treating workpieces with uneven geometries, such as gears. Still, the existing approaches to dual-frequency voltage generation could be improved upon to achieve better control, higher efficiency, and reduced electromagnetic interference. This letter proposes the use of multilevel inverters for providing power at two frequencies simultaneously. It describes how the stepping angles for the desired output from such inverters can be determined. Furthermore, experimental results are presented as verification of the concept and to demonstrate the achievement of improved harmonic level control and reduced device switching frequency.