Large Step Ratio Input-Series–Output-Parallel Chain-Link DC–DC Converter

Abstract

High-voltage and high-power dc-dc conversion is key to dc transmission, distribution, and generation, which requires compact and efficient dc transformers with large step ratios. This paper introduces a dc-dc converter with the input-series-output-parallel arrangement of multiple high step ratio subconverter units. Each subconverter unit is an isolated modular dc-dc converter with a stack of half-bridge cells chopping the dc down to low voltage level. The transformer provides galvanic isolation and additional step ratio. The converter achieves a large step ratio due to the combination of the series-parallel configuration, the modular cells, and the isolation transformer. The proposed dc-dc converter is analyzed in a 30 kV-1 kV, 1-MW application to discuss the operation performance, tradeoffs, power efficiency, and selection of components. Finally, the converter is validated through a laboratory downscaled prototype.