Investigating the input power quality of multi-pulse AC-DC power converter fed induction motor drives

Optimization of supply current total harmonic distortion (THD) of multi-pulse AC-DC power converter fed induction motor drive (IMD) is always a challenging issue. Higher amount of supply current THD degrades the input power quality of IMD. The supply current THD should be controlled in such a way so that it adheres the power quality standard of IEEE-519. With the increase of the pulse number of multi-pulse AC-DC converter, supply current THD increases. In this work, an investigation has been carried out on 6-pulse, 12-pulse, 18-pulse, and 24-pulse AC-DC power converters based IMD. A thorough analysis of input current profile, THD, dynamic responses including stator current, speed, torque profile of the induction motor are highlighted in this work with the various load perturbation conditions. This work will provide a message to the industrial community about the proper selection of AC-DC power converter for IMD application considering power quality and circuit configuration issues. All the investigating works are conducted in MATLAB/Simulink platform.