Interaction of power-module design and modulation scheme for active neutral-point-clamped inverters

Inhalt:
Due to the unequal loss distribution of the three-level NPC voltage-source converter, ANPC becomes a suitable choice when the output power range has to be increased. Moreover, there are diverse modulation strategies for the ANPC and, for each one, the optimized solution in terms of semiconductors and power-module layout. The goal of this paper is to analyze two implementation approaches – full-Si and Si-SiC-hybrid – and their respective proper modulation schemes. The forward recovery voltage influence on system level for both strategies is also presented. Finally, some considerations are made in terms of power-module design.