High Voltage Supply for Particle Accelerators Based on Modular Multilevel Converters

Modular Multilevel Converters brought a paradigm shift in very high voltage and high power applications with the replacement of high voltage valves by multiple series-connected, low-voltage modules that can be by-passed in case of fault. The reliability and precision in output waveform generation make it a potential candidate in accelerator power conversion. This work demonstrates operation of MMC-based high voltage magnet supply for a transfer line application. The output current regulation precision and the total power losses are examined. Finally, the challenge of the control optimization combined with the passive components dimensioning is highlighted.