A Novel 24-Pulse Rectification System

A novel autotransformer configuration for 24-pulse rectification is proposed that not only maintains the desired power quality but also enables a reduction in autotransformer equivalent power capacity, therefore lowering cost, volume, and weight of the overall 24-pulse rectification system. The significances of the proposed autotransformer configuration are easier implementation and have reduced windings per autotransformer core limb contrary to the established topology. The topology of the novel autotransformer is such that one of the four 3-phase rectifiers draws current directly from the input power supply instead of the autotransformer; hence, the power load on the autotransformer is significantly reduced. Higher pulse rectification systems are needed to be investigated, because they comply with the stringent power quality standards defined by IEEE-519. The performance of the novel topology is compared with the well-established 24-pulse rectification system where the proposed system exhibits superior characteristics evaluated regarding power quality and simplicity. In this paper, the performance of both 24-pulse power converters is assessed through MATLAB simulations and validated through experimental prototypes.