Integrated Transformer Phase Reactor for Voltage Source Converter
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Solution Overview
Problem
Voltage Source Converters used for high-power applications are space-demanding, particularly in expensive space environments like offshore installations, due to the need for separate phase reactors and transformers, which occupy significant space.
Innovation Solution
Integrating phase reactors as primary windings within the transformer, with two primary windings arranged to handle DC components in opposite directions, allowing the converter to be connected directly to the transformer without intermediate phase reactors, thereby reducing space requirements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If separate phase reactors and transformers are used in Voltage Source Converters for high-power applications, then the converter can handle high power effectively, but the space requirement increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the phase reactor and transformer into a single integrated device. The phase reactor windings are formed as primary windings of the transformer, eliminating the need for separate phase reactor components. This merging reduces the overall space requirement while maintaining the high power handling capability through the combined structure that provides both reactance and voltage transformation functions.
2Area of stationary object
If phase reactors are integrated into the transformer as primary windings, then space is saved, but the transformer core may saturate due to DC current components
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs asymmetric winding arrangements where the two primary windings are positioned to carry DC current components in opposite directions. This asymmetric configuration creates opposing magnetic fluxes that cancel each other out, preventing core saturation while maintaining the space-efficient integrated structure. The asymmetry in winding placement is specifically designed to handle DC components without saturating the transformer core.
3Reliability
If two primary windings are arranged to handle DC components in opposite directions, then transformer core saturation is prevented, but the winding arrangement becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The primary windings serve multiple functions simultaneously: they provide the necessary reactance for high-power handling, enable voltage transformation, and cancel DC current effects through their opposing arrangements. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional components and simplifies the overall design despite the sophisticated winding configuration. The same windings that provide core functionality also prevent saturation, reducing overall system complexity.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This configuration significantly saves space by eliminating the need for separate phase reactors, preventing transformer core saturation and enabling more compact designs for high-power converter systems, especially in space-constrained environments.
Implementation Method 1
arranged to handle DC components in opposite directions, preventing transformer core saturation
Implementation Method 2
a transformer configured to connect said phase output to an alternating voltage phase line
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2~4
Figure 5~9
AI summary
An arrangement for converting direct voltage into alternating voltage and conversely has a Voltage Source Converter with at least one phase leg connected to opposite poles (5, 6) of a direct voltage side of the converter and a series connection of switching cells arranged between said poles. Each half (8, 9) of this series connection is connected to a mid point forming a phase output by a phase reactor. The phase reactors of a said phase leg are built in a transformer (30) configured to connect said phase output to an alternating voltage phase line (28) by forming a primary winding each of the transformer arranged to interact with a secondary winding thereof connected to the alternating voltage phase line.