Multipulse AC–DC Converter Technologies for Power Quality Improvement
Summary
Multipulse AC–DC converters employ phase-shifting transformer arrangements to generate multiple interleaved rectified waveforms, sharply reducing input current harmonics and enhancing power factor. By combining several lower-pulse bridges—typically 12-, 18-, 24-, 36- or higher-pulse topologies—these systems achieve near-sinusoidal currents without the need for bulky passive filters. The increased pulse number stems from tailored transformer windings or interphase reactors that shift the phase of each bridge leg. Such technology is critical for compliance with international standards on total harmonic distortion (THD) and electromagnetic compatibility, and finds application in sectors as diverse as more-electric aircraft, renewable-energy integration, industrial drives and data centres. Modern developments focus on minimising transformer rating, optimising cost and mass, and extending control schemes for bidirectional power flow. The global drive towards decarbonisation and smart-grid stability continues to spur innovation in multipulse converter design, with emphasis on scalability, reliability and seamless integration into complex power networks.
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Multipulse AC–DC Converter Technologies for Power Quality Improvement publication trend
The graph below shows the total number of articles in multipulse ac–dc converter technologies for power quality improvement across all publications each year (not limited to Nature Index journals).
Technical terms
Total Harmonic Distortion (THD): A measure of the distortion of a waveform, expressed as the ratio of the sum of powers of all harmonic components to the power of the fundamental frequency.
Power Factor: The ratio of real power transferred to the load to the apparent power in the circuit, indicating efficiency of AC power usage.
Phase-Shifting Transformer: A transformer with windings arranged to produce voltage outputs with precise phase displacements, enabling interleaving of multiple converter bridges.
Interphase Reactor: A small-rating inductive component inserted between rectifier bridges to control circulating currents and facilitate pulse multiplication.
Autotransformer Rectifier Unit (ATRU): A rectifier arrangement utilising a single magnetic core with multiple taps to provide phase-shifted voltages for multipulse conversion.
References
- Pulse Tripling Circuit and Twelve Pulse Rectifier Combination for Sinusoidal Input Current. IEEE Access (2021).
- Multi-Pulse Rectifier Based on an Optimal Pulse Doubling Technique. Energies (2022).
- A novel pulse multiplication circuit for reducing harmonic distortion of 12 pulse rectifiers in aircraft electrical power systems. IET Electrical Systems in Transportation (2023).
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