Optimization of 12 and 18 pulse rectifier systems by the selection of optimum parameters for magnetics

Abstract:
In this paper an approach is made to arrive at optimum designs for 12 and 18pluse rectifier systems by defining the optimum parameters and configurations of magnetics. The approach is based on the definition of the parameters for magnetics considering the system impact on actual magnetics designs and the performance of the system with the set parameters of magnetic components. The several possible situations of unbalanced supply are also considered and optimum magnetic parameters to minimize the effect of the supply imbalance are discussed. Based on a series of simulations which were verified by practical testing a quantitative explanation of the size of the magnetics against the quality of the output and robustness to supply imbalances is presented. This explanation gives a measure on the degree of compromise that can be made on magnetics and the quality of the output. Situations where the magnetic designs are made larger or the requirement of using special magnetic materials that make the magnetic components more expensive are also discussed.