Project Report Group 20 Progress (1) - 2 - 6-35
Project Report Group 20 Progress (1) - 2 - 6-35
Project Report Group 20 Progress (1) - 2 - 6-35
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7 level Multi-Level Inverter
5.1 7 level Multi-Level Inverter using constant DC Source ……….22
5.2 Expected Total Harmonic Distortion for different
SPWM Techniques………………………………………………22
5.3 Solar PV with 7 Level Multi-Level Inverter…………………….23-25
Applications
5.1 Renewable Energy Systems….……….….……….….…………..25
5.2 HVDC Systems……………….……….….……….….……….....25
5.3 Uninterruptible Power Supplies……………………………….…25
5.4 High-Quality Power Supplies……………………………………25
Conclusion…………………………………………………………………………...26
References…………………………………………………………………………...27
Chapter 1
Introduction
The worldwide trend towards sustainable energy sources has prompted a growing embrace of
solar photovoltaic (PV) systems for power generation. Renowned for their clean and renewable
energy production, solar PV systems play a crucial role in mitigating greenhouse gas emissions.
In the pursuit of optimizing the efficiency and reliability of solar energy utilization, the
integration of multiple inverters in a solar PV system has emerged as a notable subject of
exploration. This study seeks to undertake a thorough performance analysis of a solar PV system
paired with multiple inverters, with a specific focus on essential parameters such as efficiency,
reliability, and overall system performance.
1.1 Title:
Performance analysis of multi-inverter with solar PV system
1.2 Overview
The conventional setup of a solar PV system involves a single inverter responsible for converting
direct current (DC) generated by solar panels into alternating current (AC) for grid or local
consumption. However, as solar installations scale up in size and complexity, there is a growing need
to explore the integration of multiple inverters. This approach aims to distribute the power conversion
load among inverters, potentially improving overall system performance.
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CHAPTER 2
A basic level inverter serves as a fundamental electronic device with a vital function in
converting direct current (DC) into alternating current (AC). This transformation is
indispensable because numerous electronic devices, appliances, and systems function on AC
power, whereas specific power sources, like batteries or solar panels, inherently generate DC
electricity. The principal objective of a basic level inverter is to enable compatibility between
these sources and the devices that necessitate AC power.
1. Switching Mechanism: At its core, a simple level inverter operates as a switch that
rapidly turns the DC power on and off. This rapid switching generates a waveform that
approximates the shape of AC power. While the resulting waveform may be a basic
square wave, it is sufficient for powering a variety of devices that do not require a
highly refined AC waveform.
2. Square Wave Inverter: Commonly referred to as a "square wave inverter," this type of
inverter produces a waveform that resembles a square-shaped pattern. While it is a
simplistic form of AC power compared to the sine wave produced by more advanced
inverters, square wave inverters are cost-effective and suitable for powering many
standard electronic devices and appliances.
3. Applications: Simple level inverters find applications in various domains. They are
frequently used in scenarios where a cost-efficient solution is needed for basic power
requirements. For example, in automotive systems, a simple inverter can be employed
to convert DC power from a car battery into AC power, enabling the operation of
devices like chargers or small electronic appliances.
4. Limitations: Despite their utility, simple level inverters have limitations. The square
wave output they generate may not be ideal for devices that are sensitive to the quality
of the AC waveform. Sensitive electronics, such as certain types of motors or audio
equipment, may experience inefficiencies or performance issues when powered by a
square wave inverter.
3. Advantages:
3
2.3 Comparision between Simple and Multi Level Inverter
Simple Inverter: Generates a square wave or a modified sine wave with a limited number
of voltage levels.
Simple Inverter: Tends to have higher THD in the output waveform, leading to harmonic
distortion.
Multilevel Inverter: Offers lower THD, providing a cleaner and more sinusoidal output
waveform.
2.3.3 Applications:
Simple Inverter: Suited for small-scale applications with less stringent requirements for
waveform quality.
2.3.4 Complexity:
Multilevel Inverter: More complex due to the additional circuitry needed to achieve
multiple voltage levels.
2.3.5 Efficiency:
2.3.6 Cost:
Multilevel Inverter: Can be more expensive due to the complexity of the circuit and the
need for additional components.
4
2.4 WAVEFORM ANALYSIS
- The first graph shows the square wave inverter which can be obtained in a simple
inverter.
- 2nd graph shows the idle pure sine wave which can be generated in case of
infinite multilevel inverters.
- 3rd graph shows the modified sine wave, close to pure sine wave which can be
obtained in case of multilevel inverter.
5
CHAPTER 3
There are three types of multilevel inverters:
The Cascaded H-Bridge Multilevel Inverter stands out as an advanced power electronic device
designed for the effective conversion of direct current (DC) into high-quality alternating current
(AC). Acknowledged for its capacity to produce output waveforms with multiple voltage levels,
this inverter plays a pivotal role in improving power quality, reducing harmonic distortion, and
enhancing overall efficiency. This comprehensive analysis explores the operational principles,
benefits, and varied applications of the Cascaded H-Bridge Multilevel Inverter.
Operational Principles:
Fig 1.1
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3.2 Flying Capacitor Multilevel Inverter
The Flying Capacitor Multilevel Inverter stands as an advanced power electronics device
engineered for the conversion of direct current (DC) into high-quality alternating current (AC).
What sets this inverter apart is its utilization of flying capacitors, facilitating the generation of
multiple voltage levels in the output waveform. In this thorough examination, we will explore
the operational principles, advantages, and applications of the Flying Capacitor Multilevel
Inverter.
Operational Principles:
1. Flying Capacitors:
○ The fundamental element of the Flying Capacitor Inverter is the use of flying
capacitors, which are connected in a floating configuration.
○ Each flying capacitor is associated with a specific voltage level, allowing for the
creation of multiple steps in the output waveform.
2. Voltage Levels:
○ The quantity of voltage levels is determined by the count of flying capacitors
incorporated into the circuit. Through meticulous control of the charging and
discharging processes of these capacitors, the inverter synthesizes an output
waveform with multiple discrete voltage levels.
3. Switching Mechanism:
○ Power semiconductor switches, often IGBTs or MOSFETs, are employed to
control the charging and discharging of the flying capacitors.
○ Precise switching, typically facilitated by Pulse Width Modulation (PWM)
techniques, governs the modulation of the output waveform.
Fig 1.2
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3.3 Diode Clamped Multilevel Inverter
Operational Principles:
1. Neutral-Point Clamping:
○ The key feature of the Diode-Clamped Inverter is the use of a neutral-point
clamping technique. This involves clamping the midpoint or neutral point of the
DC source to different voltage levels using diodes and capacitors.
○ The clamping action allows the creation of multiple voltage steps in the output
waveform.
2. Voltage Levels:
○ The quantity of voltage levels is determined by the number of clamping levels
established through diodes and capacitors. Through precise control of the
activation and deactivation of these clamping levels, the inverter generates an
output waveform with several distinct voltage steps.
3. Switching Mechanism:
○ Power semiconductor switches, often Insulated Gate Bipolar Transistors
(IGBTs) or Metal-Oxide-Semiconductor Field-Effect Transistors (MOSFETs),
are used to modulate the voltage levels and generate the desired output
waveform.
○ Pulse Width Modulation (PWM) techniques are commonly employed to achieve
precise control over the switching of these semiconductor devices.
8
Fig 1.3
Solar PV System:
A solar PV (photovoltaic) system is a renewable energy technology that converts sunlight into
electricity. It consists of solar panels, which are made up of photovoltaic cells, that capture
sunlight and generate direct current (DC) electricity. An inverter is then used to convert this
DC electricity into alternating current (AC) electricity, which is compatible with most electrical
appliances and the power grid.
Solar Panels (Photovoltaic Modules): These are the core components of a solar PV system.
Solar panels consist of numerous photovoltaic cells, usually made from semiconductor
materials such as silicon. When sunlight hits these cells, it generates an electric current via the
photovoltaic effect.
Inverter: Since solar panels produce direct current (DC) electricity, but most household
appliances and the electrical grid use alternating current (AC), an inverter is necessary. It
converts the DC electricity produced by the solar panels into AC electricity, making it suitable
for use in homes, businesses, and the grid.
Balance of System Components: These include wiring, junction boxes, combiner boxes,
disconnect switches, and other electrical components that connect the solar panels to the
inverter and to the electrical load or grid.
9
Working Principle:
Sunlight Capture: Solar panels absorb sunlight using photovoltaic cells. When photons from
sunlight strike the semiconductor material in the cells, they dislodge electrons, creating an
electric current.
Electricity Generation: The electric current generated by the solar panels is in the form of
direct current (DC). This DC electricity is then sent to the inverter.
Conversion to AC: The inverter converts the DC electricity from the solar panels into
alternating current (AC) electricity, which is the standard form of electricity used in homes,
businesses, and the electrical grid.
Usage or Grid Connection: The AC electricity produced by the solar PV system can be used to
power electrical appliances and devices within the building. Any excess electricity can be
exported to the grid if the system is grid-connected, providing credit or compensation to the
owner through net metering or feed-in tariffs.
Residential: Solar PV systems are commonly installed on residential rooftops to provide clean,
renewable energy for homeowners. They can help reduce electricity bills and provide energy
independence.
Utility-scale: Large-scale solar PV installations, often referred to as solar farms or solar parks,
generate electricity on a utility scale. These projects can supply power to the electrical grid and
contribute to meeting regional or national energy targets.
Off-grid: In remote areas where access to the electrical grid is limited or nonexistent, off-grid
solar PV systems can provide reliable electricity for homes, telecommunications equipment,
water pumping, and other applications.
Clean and Renewable Energy: Solar PV systems produce electricity without releasing
greenhouse gases or pollutants, aiding in the fight against climate change and enhancing air
quality.
Energy Independence: Solar PV systems decrease dependence on fossil fuels and imported
energy, offering greater energy security and resilience.
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Cost Savings: By generating their own electricity, solar PV system owners can significantly cut
or eliminate their electricity bills over the system's lifespan. Additionally, financial incentives
such as tax credits, rebates, and net metering can boost the economic advantages of solar PV.
Low Operating Costs: Once installed, solar PV systems incur minimal operating expenses, as
sunlight is free and plentiful. Routine maintenance needs are also comparatively low.
Scalability and Adaptability: Solar PV systems can be adjusted in size to suit various energy
demands, from small residential setups to large-scale utility projects.
Initial Cost: While the cost of solar PV systems has decreased significantly in recent years, the
initial investment can still be a barrier for some homeowners, businesses, and governments.
Intermittency and Variability: Solar PV systems depend on sunlight, which can be intermittent
and variable, affecting the consistency of electricity generation. Energy storage solutions such
as batteries can help address this challenge by storing excess energy for use when sunlight is
unavailable.
Space Requirements: Solar PV systems require adequate space with unobstructed access to
sunlight, which may not be feasible for all locations or building types.
Regulatory and Policy Framework: Government policies, regulations, and incentives play a
significant role in the adoption and deployment of solar PV systems. Stable and supportive
policies can encourage investment and innovation in the solar industry.
System Performance and Maintenance: Monitoring and maintaining the performance of solar
PV systems is essential to ensure optimal efficiency and longevity. Regular inspection,
cleaning, and maintenance of components are necessary to prevent issues and maximize energy
production.
Overall, solar PV systems offer a sustainable and cost-effective solution for generating
electricity, with numerous environmental, economic, and social benefits. Advances in
technology, coupled with supportive policies and growing public awareness, are driving the
widespread adoption of solar PV worldwide, contributing to a more sustainable and resilient
energy future.
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Fig. 2.1: Working algorithm of perturb and observe technique
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Boost Converter
A boost converter is a DC-DC converter that increases (boosts) the input voltage to a higher
output voltage. It's commonly employed in various applications, including powering devices
from batteries, photovoltaic systems, and electric vehicles. Here’s a closer look at how a boost
converter functions, its components, and its uses:
1. Inductor (L): Stores energy when current flows through it and releases energy when
the current decreases.
2. Switch (usually a transistor, S): Controls the energy transfer. It's typically a MOSFET
or IGBT.
3. Diode (D): Ensures the current flows in the correct direction and prevents backflow.
4. Capacitor (C): Smooths the output voltage.
5. Control Circuitry: Manages the switching of the transistor to regulate the output
voltage.
Working Principle
The switching process happens rapidly, often in the range of tens to hundreds of kilohertz, to
14
efficiently convert the power.
Key Equations
where D is the duty cycle (the fraction of time the switch is ON during one switching
cycle).
Applications
● Advantages:
○ Simple design with few components.
○ Efficient power conversion.
○ Versatile and widely used in many applications.
● Disadvantages:
○ Requires careful design to manage switching noise.
○ Output voltage can be susceptible to input voltage fluctuations.
○ High switching frequency can generate electromagnetic interference (EMI).
Design Considerations
The working states of the Boost converter consist of two modes, based on the state of the
switch. The on-mode takes place when Switch Q is turned on and diode D is in a
non-conducting state, while the off-mode follows when switch Q is turned off and diode D is
conducting. With the Assumption of 100% efficiency of Boost converter, its duty cycle can be
expressed as
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Performance of SPV system with different environmental conditions is observed
• Output Power with different irradiance and temperature of 25° C is shown in Fig., As
irradiance decreases, the generated voltage of the PV cell also decreases, leading to a reduction
in the efficiency of the PV cell.
• Output Power with 1000W/m2 irradiance and different temperatures is shown in Fig. 7. As
the temperature increases, the current of the PV cell decreases, resulting in a reduction in
generated power.
Switching Methods:-
The methodology employed by multilevel inverters utilizes numerous switches to produce a
staircase-like output through controlled switching. The sequence and duration of each step are
pivotal in minimizing Total Harmonic Distortion (THD). Various approaches for generating
gating signals have been proposed, with Sinusoidal-Pulse-Width-Modulation (SPWM) being a
prevalent choice due to its advantages, including low switching losses, fewer output
harmonics, and ease of implementation.
16
- Phase-Opposition-Disposition-PWM(PODPWM)
- Phase-Shift-PWM(PSPWM)
- Multi-Carrier-Sinusoidal-Pulse-Width-Modulation
- Carrier-Overlapping-PWM-(COPWM)
Typically, these approaches entail the utilization of multiple triangular signals, whether at the
same level or with a phase shift. Gating signals for corresponding switches are generated
through the intersection of these triangular signals with a single sine wave. In this research, a
novel method for generalized gating signal generation is introduced, employing only one
modulating and one carrier signal. The resultant signal is subsequently routed to different
switches via a pulse steering circuit developed within the scope of this investigation.
A.Phase-Disposition-PWM (PD):
This approach also incorporates carrier signals with the same frequency and amplitude but
varying in phase. The carrier signals above the reference zero voltage are 180 degrees out of
phase with the carrier signals below the zero reference voltage. Figure 3.2 provides an
illustration of this method.
17
Fig 3.2 Phase-Opposition-Disposition-PWM
C. Alternative-Phase-Opposition-Disposition-PWM:
In this approach, carrier signals have the same frequency and amplitude, but each carrier
wave is offset by 180 degrees relative to the one next to it. This method is illustrated in Fig.
3.3
In this approach, all carrier signals share identical amplitude, frequency, and DC offset, but
they are phase-shifted from each other by 90 degrees. Figure 3.4 provides an illustration of
this configuration.
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Fig 3.4 Phase-Shift-PWM
E. Carrier-Overlapping PWM:
In this method designed for an m-level inverter, m-1 carrier signals are employed with
identical frequency and peak-to-peak amplitude. These carrier signals are strategically
arranged so that the bands they occupy overlap each other until half of their amplitude,
with the reference signal centered in the middle of these carrier signals. Figure 3.5
illustrates this approach.
F. Multi-Carrier-Sinusoidal-Pulse-Width-Modulation-PWM:
This technique is applied in multilevel inverters where the switching frequency of the upper
and lower switches exceeds that of the intermediate switches. The purpose of employing this
method is to equalize the number of switchings. Figure 3.6 provides an illustration of this
approach.
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Fig 3.6 Multi-Carrier-Sinusoidal-Pulse-Width-Modulation-PWM
Fig 3.7
In the proposed Novel SPWM technique, the process begins by generating a parent signal
through the comparison of a reference sine wave with a triangular carrier wave, as shown in
Fig. 3.7. Next, pulse trains are sent to the respective switches at the appropriate times using
logic combinations, as depicted in Fig. 3.8 and Fig. 3.9. Fig. 8 illustrates the creation process
of the parent PWM signal, while Fig. 9 and Fig. 10 describe the pulse steering logic for
delivering gating signals to specific switches. As a result, the gating signals for any switch are
generated by logically ANDing the parent signal with a pulse whose duration matches the
switch's conduction period.
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Fig 3.8
Fig 3.9
The presented method utilizes a single sine and a lone carrier signal, demonstrating its generic
nature. Consequently, the approach can be extended to various types of multilevel inverters by
creating a parent train of pulses and subsequently directing them to the relevant switches, thus
generating the necessary step signal
Analysis of the power drawn from each DC source in the cascaded multi-level inverter is an
important parameter for determining the battery size of the stand-alone system with storage.
Each H-bridge inverter extracts power from a separate DC source. This power extraction is
dependent on the inverter's switching behavior. Therefore, the type of switching implemented
influences the power drawn from each particular DC source.
For a seven-level cascaded multilevel inverter, analysis of power drawn from separate sources
gives the following results.
21
Switching D.C Source 1 D.C Source 2 D.C Source 3
Supplied Technique
Power (in
watts) PD 214.7 233.9 233.5
In techniques like PD, POD and APOD switching (level-shifted MC SPWM), unequal power is
drawn from separate DC sources. Conversely, in Phase Shift (PS) switching, equal power is
drawn from each source in both five-level and seven-level MLI. For this reason, PS is the
preferred switching technique over the other three MC SPWM methods. In stand-alone Solar
PV systems, equal power extraction is favorable for maintaining voltage level symmetry and
converter design. Therefore, simple MPPT control will ensure maximum power extraction
from each array at the same voltage level.
CMLI is implemented with dc sources each of 100 volts and a purely resistive load of 100
ohms. THD spectrum analysis with pure resistive load is shown below, 48.34% THD is present
in the 2-level inverter. THD analysis of a three-level inverter current with pure resistive load is
shown below. 41.47% THD is present with a 1.2 modulation index. Using Phase shift as a
modulation technique with a modulation index of 1.2, THD analysis of five-level and
seven-level inverter current with pure resistive load gives 21.81% THD and 15.58% THD
respectively.
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Table : Output Voltage Level for 7 Level MLI
Method THD
P.D 15.64%
P.O.D 14.85%
A.P.O.D 15.41%
P.S 15.58%
In a Solar PV-fed MLI, the standard DC source is replaced by a PV array with an advanced MPPT
technique. Each H-bridge cell of the inverter is powered by its own PV array, each managed by an
independent MPPT technique. For both five-level and seven-level cascaded inverters, the phase
shift modulation technique is used. Additionally, a model can be developed for a five-level
cascaded inverter using two cascaded H-bridge inverters, each powered by a separate PV array.
The illustration below shows a seven-level CMLI, where three H-bridge inverters are cascaded,
each fed by different PV arrays and controlled by independent MPPT techniques.
The Analysis of the Solar PV array-fed inverter of various voltage levels shows the presence of
THDs in current under different load conditions. Specifically, THDs were observed with an
R-load, drawing current with unity power factor. Additionally, THDs present in an R-L load.
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1. Flow Diagram
2. Result
3.THD
24
4. Power Extraction from Solar PV using MPPT Technique
25
5. I-V and P-V characteristics of Solar PV Array
Applications
Renewable Energy Systems:
In grid-tied solar power systems, multi-level inverters play a significant role in converting the
direct current (DC) output from solar panels into high-quality alternating current (AC). This
conversion facilitates smooth integration with the grid. The inherent capacity of multi-level
inverters to minimize harmonics is essential for upholding the overall power quality when feeding
electricity back into the grid.
Motor Drives:
HVDC Systems:
Multi-level inverters play a crucial role in high-voltage direct current (HVDC) transmission
systems by converting DC power to AC, facilitating efficient long-distance power transmission.
This process helps minimize losses and enhances voltage control in HVDC systems.
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Induction Heating:
In industrial settings, multi-level inverters play a crucial role in induction heating systems used for
metal processing. These inverters provide precise control over power delivery to induction coils,
optimizing heating efficiency, and subsequently reducing overall energy consumption in industrial
processes..
FACTS Devices:
Flexible Alternating Current Transmission System (FACTS) devices utilize multi-level inverters to
manage power flow, thereby improving the stability and reliability of electrical grids. Specifically,
in FACTS devices like the Static Synchronous Compensator (STATCOM), multi-level inverters
play a key role in providing voltage support and enabling reactive power control..
CONCLUSION
The performance analysis of a multi-inverter system integrated with a solar PV setup provides
valuable insights into its efficiency, reliability, and overall effectiveness. The distributed
architecture of multiple inverters optimizes energy harvesting, enhancing the system's efficiency
by maximizing the utilization of solar energy. The redundancy in a multi-inverter configuration
increases system reliability, ensuring a consistent energy output even in the event of an inverter
failure. Furthermore, the balanced load distribution prevents component overloading, promoting
the system's longevity. The adaptability of the system to variable environmental conditions
underscores its robust performance in the face of fluctuations in solar irradiance and temperature.
The integration also offers advanced monitoring and control capabilities, allowing for real-time
adjustments and proactive issue identification. Economically viable and scalable, the
multi-inverter system is well-suited for various applications from residential to commercial and
industrial settings. In addition, its positive environmental impact, reducing dependence on
traditional energy sources, contributes to a more sustainable energy ecosystem. In essence, the
integrated multi-inverter system with a solar PV setup emerges as a promising and effective
solution for clean energy generation, with potential for further advancements in research and
development towards a greener and more sustainable future.
27
REFERENCES
S. Vadhiraj, K. N. Swamy and B. P. Divakar, "Generic SPWM technique for multilevel inverter,"
2018 IEEE PES Asia-Pacific Power and Energy Engineering Conference (APPEEC), Hong Kong,
China, 2018
N. Ahmed and Z. R. Khan, "A Single-Phase Grid-Connected Inverter using Phase Control
Method," 2021 IEEE International Conference in Power Engineering Application (ICPEA),
Malaysia, 2021
V. Chiranjeevi and R. S. Geetha, "Optimized switching techniques for Multilevel Inverter with
Reduced number of switches," 2021 IEEE International Conference on Electronics, Computing
and Communication Technologies (CONECCT), Bangalore, India, 2021
G. Beinhold, R. Jakob, and M. Nahrstaedt, “A new range of medium voltage multilevel inverter
28
drives with floating capacitor technology,” in Proc. 9th European Conf. Power Electronics (EPE),
Graz, Austria, 2018
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