| Abstract |
This paper presents an overview of modern rectifiers, which work with a high power factor to increase the efficiency and reliability of power systems. The high power factor is achieved in these converters by means of a high displacement factor and reduced harmonics in the input current, which are obtained by using advanced Pulse Width Modulation (PWM) techniques. The working, control and modulation principles of single-phase and three-phase rectifiers are presented. Some key aspects related with the operation of these converters are discussed. Special attention is dedicated to the distortion levels accepted by standards. As a conclusion, it is observed, for example, that the power factor of a single-phase rectifier with capacitive
filtering can be improved from FP = 0,65 to FP > 0,95, by using a good control strategy. Finally, the most relevant industrial applications of these rectifiers are reviewed, concluding with a discussion of development trends. |
