A comparative efficiency study of silicon-based solid state transformers

Abstract

Solid state transformers (SSTs) have lower physical profiles than traditional 60 Hz transformers and provide active control of power flow. However, they are not as efficient as traditional 60 Hz transformers because of the presence of power electronic converters. This work presents an analytical loss calculation model of an SST. It evaluates conduction loss, switching loss and transformer loss in four candidate SST topologies. Loss breakdown under both rated-load and light-load conditions are compared for all four configurations.