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UNIT-4
Controlled Rectifiers

4.1 Line Commutated AC to DC converters

+
AC Line DC Output
Input Commutated V0(dc)
Voltage Converter
-
• Type of input: Fixed voltage, fixed frequency ac power supply.
• Type of output: Variable dc output voltage
• Type of commutation: Natural / AC line commutation

4.1.1Different types of Line Commutated Converters

• AC to DC Converters (Phase controlled rectifiers)
• AC to AC converters (AC voltage controllers)
• AC to AC converters (Cyclo converters) at low output frequency

4.1.2 Differences Between Diode Rectifiers & Phase Controlled Rectifiers

• The diode rectifiers are referred to as uncontrolled rectifiers .
• The diode rectifiers give a fixed dc output voltage .
• Each diode conducts for one half cycle.
• Diode conduction angle = 1800 or π radians.
• We cannot control the dc output voltage or the average dc load current in a diode
rectifier circuit

Single phase half wave diode rectifier gives an

Vm
Average dc output voltage VO( dc ) =
π
Single phase full wave diode rectifier gives an
2Vm
Average dc output voltage VO( dc ) =
π

4.2 Applications of Phase Controlled Rectifiers

• DC motor control in steel mills, paper and textile mills employing dc motor drives.
• AC fed traction system using dc traction motor.
• Electro-chemical and electro-metallurgical processes.
• Magnet power supplies.

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• Portable hand tool drives

4.3 Classification of Phase Controlled Rectifiers
• Single Phase Controlled Rectifiers.
• Three Phase Controlled Rectifiers

4.3.1 Different types of Single Phase Controlled Rectifiers.

• Half wave controlled rectifiers.
• Full wave controlled rectifiers.
• Using a center tapped transformer.
• Full wave bridge circuit.
• Semi converter.
• Full converter.

4.3.2 Different Types of Three Phase Controlled Rectifiers

• Half wave controlled rectifiers.
• Full wave controlled rectifiers.
• Semi converter (half controlled bridge converter).
• Full converter (fully controlled bridge converter).

4.4 Principle of Phase Controlled Rectifier Operation

Single Phase Half-Wave Thyristor Converter with a Resistive Load

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Equations:

vs = Vm sin ω t = i/p ac supply voltage

Vm = max. value of i/p ac supply voltage
Vm
VS = = RMS value of i/p ac supply voltage
2
ω α vO = vL = output voltage across the load

When the thyristor is triggered at t =

vO = vL = Vm sin ω t ; ω t = α to π
vO
iO = iL = = Load current; ω t = α to π
R
V sin ω t
iO = iL = m = I m sin ω t ; ω t = α to π
R
V
Where I m = m = max. value of load current
R

4.4.1 To Derive an Expression for the Average (DC) Output Voltage across the Load

2π
1
VO( dc ) = Vdc =
2π ∫ v .d (ω t );
0
O

vO = Vm sin ω t for ω t = α to π
π
1
Vm sin ω t.d (ω t )
2π α∫
VO( dc ) = Vdc =

π
1
Vm sin ω t.d (ω t )
2π α∫
VO( dc ) =

π
V
VO( dc ) = m ∫ sin ω t.d (ω t )
2π α
π
V  
VO( dc ) = m  − cos ω t 
2π  α

Vm
VO( dc ) = [ − cos π + cos α ] ; cos π = −1
2π
V
VO( dc ) = m [1 + cos α ] ; Vm = 2VS
2π

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Maximum average (dc) o/p

voltage is obtained when α = 0
and the maximum dc output voltage
V
Vdc( max ) = Vdm = m (1 + cos 0 ) ; cos ( 0 ) = 1
2π
V
∴Vdc( max ) = Vdm = m
π
Vm
[1 + cos α ] ; Vm = 2VS
VO( dc ) =
2π
The average dc output voltage can be varied
by varying the trigger angle α from 0 to a
maximum of 1800 (π radians )
We can plot the control characteristic

(V (
O dc ) )
vs α by using the equation for VO( dc )

4.5 Control Characteristic of Single Phase Half Wave Phase Controlled Rectifier with
Resistive Load

The average dc output voltage is given by the

expression
Vm
[1 + cos α ]
VO( dc ) =
2π
We can obtain the control characteristic by
plotting the expression for the dc output
voltage as a function of trigger angleα

4.5.1 Control Characteristic

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VO(dc)
Vdm

0.6Vdm

0.2 Vdm

0 60 120 180
Trigger angle α in degrees

Normalizing the dc output

voltage with respect to Vdm , the
Normalized output voltage
Vm
Vdc 2π (
1 + cos α )
Vn = =
Vdm Vm
π
Vdc 1
Vn = = (1 + cos α ) = Vdcn
Vdm 2

4.5.2 To Derive an Expression for the RMS Value of Output Voltage of a Single Phase
Half Wave Controlled Rectifier with Resistive Load

The RMS output voltage is given by

 1 2π 2 
VO( RMS ) =  ∫ vO .d (ω t ) 
 2π 0 
Output voltage vO = Vm sin ω t ; for ω t = α to π
1
 1 π 2 2 2
VO( RMS ) =  ∫ Vm sin ω t.d (ω t ) 
 2π α 
1 − cos 2ω t
By substituting sin 2 ω t = , we get
2
1
 1 π 2 (1 − cos 2ω t ) 2
VO ( RMS ) = ∫ Vm .d (ω t ) 
 2π α 2 
1
π
V 2 2
VO ( RMS ) = m
 4π
∫α (1 − cos 2ω t ) .d (ω t )
1
 V 2 π π
 2
VO ( RMS ) =  m  ∫ d (ω t ) − ∫ cos 2ω t.d (ω t )  
 4π α α  
1

V 1  π
 sin 2ω t   2 π
VO( RMS ) = m  (ω t ) −  
2  π  α  2  α  Page 134
1

Vm 1  ( sin 2π − sin 2α )  ;sin2π = 0 2

VO( RMS ) =   (π − α ) − 
2  π  2  
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4.5.3 Performance Parameters of Phase Controlled Rectifiers

Output dc power (avg. or dc o/p

power delivered to the load)
PO( dc ) = VO( dc ) × I O ( dc ) ; i.e., Pdc = Vdc × I dc
Where
VO( dc ) = Vdc = avg./ dc value of o/p voltage.
I O ( dc ) = I dc = avg./dc value of o/p current

Output ac power
PO( ac ) = VO( RMS ) × I O( RMS )
Efficiency of Rectification (Rectification Ratio)
PO( dc ) PO( dc )
Efficiency η = ; % Efficiency η = × 100
PO( ac ) PO( ac )
The o/p voltage consists of two components
The dc component VO( dc )
The ac /ripple component Vac = Vr ( rms )

Output ac power
PO( ac ) = VO( RMS ) × I O( RMS )
Efficiency of Rectification (Rectification Ratio)
PO( dc ) PO( dc )
Efficiency η = ; % Efficiency η = × 100
PO( ac ) PO( ac )
The o/p voltage consists of two components
The dc component VO( dc )
The ac /ripple component Vac = Vr ( rms )
4.5.4 The Ripple Factor (RF) w.r.t output voltage waveform

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I r ( rms ) I ac
Current Ripple Factor ri = =
I O( dc ) I dc

Where I r ( rms ) = I ac = I O2 ( RMS ) − I O2 ( dc )

Vr ( pp ) = peak to peak ac ripple output voltage
Vr ( pp ) = VO( max ) − VO( min )
I r ( pp ) = peak to peak ac ripple load current
I r ( pp ) = I O( max ) − I O( min )

Transformer Utilization Factor (TUF)

PO( dc )
TUF =
VS × I S
Where
VS = RMS supply (secondary) voltage
I S = RMS supply (secondary) current

Where
vS = Supply voltage at the transformer secondary side
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iS = i/p supply current
(transformer secondary winding current)
iS 1 = Fundamental component of the i/p supply current
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= Displacement angle (phase angle)

For an RL load
= Displacement angle = Load impedance angle
ωL 
∴ φ = tan −1   for an RL load
 R 
Displacement Factor (DF) or
Fundamental Power Factor
DF = Cosφ

Harmonic Factor (HF) or

Total Harmonic Distortion Factor ; THD
1 1

I −I  2  I  2  2
2 2
HF =   =   − 1
S S1
S
2
 I S1   I S 1  
Where
I S = RMS value of input supply current.
I S 1 = RMS value of fundamental component of
the i/p supply current.

Input Power Factor (PF)

VS I S 1 I
PF = cos φ = S 1 cos φ
VS I S IS
The Crest Factor (CF)
I S ( peak ) Peak input supply current
CF = =
IS RMS input supply current
For an Ideal Controlled Rectifier
FF = 1; η = 100% ; Vac = Vr ( rms ) = 0 ; TUF = 1;
RF = rv = 0 ; HF = THD = 0; PF = DPF = 1
4.5.5 Single Phase Half Wave Controlled Rectifier with an RL Load

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Input Supply Voltage (Vs) & Thyristor (Output) Current Waveforms

Output (Load) Voltage Waveform

4.5.6 To derive an expression for the output (Load) current, during ωt = α to β when

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thyristor T1 conducts

Assuming T1 is triggered ω t = α ,
ω α ω β
we can write the equation,
 di 
L  O  + RiO = Vm sin t ; ≤ t ≤
 dt 
ω φ τ
General expression for the output current,
−t
V
iO = m sin ( t − ) + A1e
Z
ω Vm = 2VS = maximum supply voltage.

Z = R 2 + ( L ) =Load impedance.
2

ωL 
φ = tan −1   = Load impedance angle.
 R 
L
τ= = Load circuit time constant.
R
∴ general expression for the output load current
−R
Vm t
iO = sin (ω t − φ ) + A1e L
Z

Constant A1 is calculated from

α 
initial condition iO = 0 at ω t = α ; t=  
ω 
−R
V t
iO = 0 = m sin (α − φ ) + A1e L
Z
−R
t −Vm
∴ A1e L = sin (α − φ )
Z
We get the value of constant A1 as
R (α )
 −Vm 
A1 = e  Z sin (α − φ ) 
ωL
 

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Substituting the value of constant A1 in the

ω φ α φ
general expression for iO
−R
(ω t −α )  −Vm
) 
Vm
sin ( t − ) + e ω L
iO =  Z sin ( −
Z  
∴ we obtain the final expression for the
ω φ α φ
inductive load current
Vm  −R
(ω t −α ) 
iO = sin ( t − ) − sin ( − ) eω L ;
Z  
β Where α ≤ ω t ≤ β
ω β
Extinction angle can be calculated by using
the condition that iO = 0 at t=
Vm  −R
(ω t −α ) 
iO =  sin ( ω t − φ ) − sin (α − φ ) e ωL
=0
Z  
−R
( β −α )
∴ sin ( β − φ ) = e ωL
× sin (α − φ )
β can be calculated by solving the above eqn.

4.5.7 To Derive an Expression for Average (DC) Load Voltage of a Single Half
Wave Controlled Rectifier with RL Load
2π
1
VO( dc ) = VL =
2π ∫ v .d (ωt )
0
O

1  
α β 2π
VO( dc ) = VL =  ∫ vO .d (ω t ) + ∫ vO .d (ω t ) + ∫ vO .d (ω t ) 
2π  0 α β 
vO = 0 for ω t = 0 to α & for ω t = β to 2π
β
1  
∴VO ( dc ) = VL =  ∫ vO .d (ω t )  ;
2π α 
vO = Vm sin ω t for ω t = α to β

β
1  
VO( dc ) = VL =  ∫ Vm sin ω t.d (ω t ) 
2π α 
β
Vm  
VO( dc ) = VL =  − cos ω t 
2π  α

Vm
VO( dc ) = VL = ( cos α − cos β )
2π
V
∴VO ( dc ) = VL = m ( cos α − cos β )
2π
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Effect of Load Inductance on the Output

During the period ωt = Π to β the instantaneous output voltage is negative and this reduces
the average or the dc output voltage when compared to a purely resistive load.

α
4.5.8 Average DCβLoad Current
π
VO (dc ) Vm
I O ( d c ) = I L ( A vg ) = = ( co s − co s )
RL 2 RL

4.5.9 Single Phase Half Wave Controlled Rectifier with RL Load & Free Wheeling
Diode
T
i0
+
V0
+ R
Vs
−
~ FWD

L
−

vS
Supply voltage

0 π 2π 3π ωt
α

iG
Gate pulses

0 ωt
α

iO Load current
α

ωt=β
0 ωt
α β 2π+α
β
vO
Load voltage

0 π 2π 3π ωt
α

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The average output voltage

Vm
Vdc = [1 + cos α ] which is the same as that
2π
of a purely resistive load.
The following points are to be noted
For low value of inductance, the load current
tends to become discontinuous.
During the period α to π
the load current is carried by the SCR.
During the period π to β load current is
carried by the free wheeling diode.
The value of β depends on the value of
R and L and the forward resistance
of the FWD.

For Large Load Inductance the load current does not reach zero, & we obtain
continuous load current.

i0
t1 t2 t3 t4

SCR FWD SCR FWD

0
π ωt
α 2π 2π+α 3π

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4.6 Single Phase Full Wave Controlled Rectifier Using A Center Tapped Transformer

T1
A
+
vO

AC R L
O
Supply

T2

4.6.1 Discontinuous Load Current Operation without FWD for π <β< (π+α)

vO Vm

ωt
0
α

iO
α
β
ωt
0 π
α β 2π 3π
π+α( () ) π+β

(i) To derive an expression for the output (load) current, during ωt = α to β when
thyristor
T1 conducts
Assuming T1 is triggered ω t = α ,
we can write the equation,
 di  ω α ω β
L  O  + RiO = Vm sin t ; ≤ t ≤
 dt 
General expression for the output current,
−t
Vm ω φ τ
iO = sin ( t − ) + A1e
Z

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Constant A1 is calculated from

α 
initial condition iO = 0 at ω t = α ; t=  
ω 
−R
V t
iO = 0 = m sin (α − φ ) + A1e L
Z
−R
t −V
∴ A1e L = m sin (α − φ )
Z
We get the value of constant A1 as
R (α )
 −V 
A1 = e ω L  m sin (α − φ ) 
 Z 
ω Vm = 2VS = maximum supply voltage.

Z = R2 + ( L ) =Load impedance.
2

 ωL 
φ = tan −1   = Load impedance angle.
 R 
L
τ= = Load circuit time constant.
R
∴general expression for the output load current
−R
Vm t
iO = sin (ωt − φ ) + Ae
1
L
Z
Substituting the value of constant A1 in the
general expression for iO
ω φ −R
α φ
(ω t −α )  −Vm
) 
V
iO = m sin ( t − ) + e ω L  Z sin ( −
Z  
∴ we obtain the final expression for the
inductive load current
ω φV  α φ −R
(ω t −α ) 
iO = sin ( t − ) − sin ( − )e
m ωL
;
Z  
Where α ≤ ω t ≤ β
β
Extinction angle can be calculated by using
ω β
the condition that iO = 0 at t=
Vm  −R
(ω t −α ) 
iO =  ( ω − φ ) − (α − φ ) =0
ωL
sin t sin e
Z  
−R
( β −α )
∴ sin ( β − φ ) = eω L × sin (α − φ )
β can be calculated by solving the above eqn.

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(ii) To Derive an Expression for the DC Output Voltage of A Single Phase Full Wave
Controlled Rectifier with RL Load (Without FWD)

vO Vm

ωt
0
α

iO
α
β
ωt
0 π
α β 2π 3π
π+α
( ) ( π+β
)

β
1
VO( dc ) = Vdc = ∫ v .d (ω t )
π ω α
t=
O

β
1 
VO( dc ) = Vdc =  ∫ Vm sin ω t.d (ω t ) 
π α 
β
Vm  
VO( dc ) = Vdc =  − cos ω t 
π  α 

V
VO( dc ) = Vdc = m ( cos α − cos β )
π

When the load inductance is negligible ( i.e., L ≈ 0 )

Extinction angle β = π radians
Hence the average or dc output voltage for R load
Vm
VO ( dc ) = ( cos α − cos π )
π
Vm
VO ( dc ) =
π
( cos α − ( −1) )
Vm
VO ( dc ) = (1 + cos α ) ; for R load, when β = π
π

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(iii) To calculate the RMS output voltage we use the expression

(iv) Discontinuous Load Current Operation with FWD

vO Vm

ωt Thyristor T1 is triggered at ωt = α ;
0
α T1 conducts from ωt = α to π
Thyristor T2 is triggered at ωt = (π + α ) ;
iO T2 conducts from ωt = (π + α ) to 2π
α
β FWD conducts from ωt = π to β &
vO ≈ 0 during discontinuous load current.
ωt
0 πβ
α 2π 3π
(π+α) (π+β)

(v) To Derive an Expression for the DC Output Voltage for a Single Phase Full
Wave Controlled Rectifier with RL Load & FWD
π
1
vO .d (ωt )
π ωt∫=0
VO( dc) = Vdc =

π
1
Vm sin ωt.d (ωt )
π α∫
∴ VO( dc) = Vdc =

π
Vm  
VO( dc) = Vdc = − cosω t 
π  α

V
VO( dc) = Vdc = m [ − cosπ + cosα ] ; cosπ = −1
π
Vm
∴ VO( dc) = Vdc = (1+ cosα )
π

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• The load current is discontinuous for low values of load inductance and for large
values of trigger angles.
• For large values of load inductance the load current flows continuously without
falling to zero.
• Generally the load current is continuous for large load inductance and for low
trigger angles.

4.6.2 Continuous Load Current Operation (Without FWD)

vO Vm

ωt
0

iO
α α α α

ωt
0
α π 2π 3π
(π+α) (2π+α)
(i) To Derive an Expression for Average / DC Output Voltage of Single Phase Full
Wave Controlled Rectifier for Continuous Current Operation without FWD

vO Vm

ωt
0

iO
α α α α

ωt
0
α π 2π 3π
(π+α) (2π+α)

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(π +α )
1
VO ( dc ) = Vdc = ∫ vO .d (ω t )
π ω t =α
(π +α )
1 
VO ( dc ) = Vdc =  ∫ Vm sin ω t.d (ω t ) 
π  α 
(π +α ) 
V 
VO ( dc ) = Vdc = m  − cos ω t 
π  α 

VO( dc ) = Vdc
Vm
= cos α − cos (π + α )  ;
π 
cos (π + α ) = − cos α
Vm
VO( dc ) = Vdc = [cos α + cos α ]
π
2Vm
∴ VO( dc ) = Vdc = cos α
π

• By plotting VO(dc) versus α, we obtain the control characteristic of a single phase

full wave controlled rectifier with RL load for continuous load current operation
without FWD

V d c = V d m × co s α

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VO(dc)

Vdm

0.6Vdm

0.2 Vdm
α
0
30 60 90 120 150 180
-0.2Vdm

-0.6 Vdm

-Vdm
Trigger angle α in degrees

By varying the trigger angle we can vary the

output dc voltage across the load. Hence we can
control the dc output power flow to the load.
For trigger angle α , 0 to 900 ( i.e., 0 ≤ α ≤ 900 ) ;
cos α is positive and hence Vdc is positive
Vdc & I dc are positive ; Pdc = (Vdc × I dc ) is positive
Converter operates as a Controlled Rectifier.
Power flow is from the ac source to the load.

For trigger angle α , 900 to 1800

( i.e., 90 0
≤ α ≤ 1800 ) ,
cosα is negative and hence
Vdc is negative; I dc is positive ;
Pdc = (Vdc × I dc ) is negative.
In this case the converter operates
as a Line Commutated Inverter.
Power flows from the load ckt. to the i/p ac source.
The inductive load energy is fed back to the
i/p source.

Drawbacks of Full Wave Controlled Rectifier with Centre Tapped Transformer

• We require a centre tapped transformer which is quite heavier and bulky.
• Cost of the transformer is higher for the required dc output voltage & output power.
• Hence full wave bridge converters are preferred.

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4.7 Single Phase Full Wave Bridge Controlled Rectifier

2 types of FW Bridge Controlled Rectifiers are

Half Controlled Bridge Converter (Semi-Converter)

Fully Controlled Bridge Converter (Full Converter)

The bridge full wave controlled rectifier does not require a centre tapped transformer

4.7.1 Single Phase Full Wave Half Controlled Bridge Converter (Single Phase Semi
Converter)

Trigger Pattern of Thyristors

Thyristor T1 is triggered at
ω t = α , at ω t = ( 2π + α ) ,...
Thyristor T2 is triggered at
ω t = (π + α ) , at ω t = ( 3π + α ) ,...
The time delay between the gating
signals of T1 & T2 = π radians or 1800

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Waveforms of single phase semi-converter with general load & FWD for α > 900

Single Quadrant Operation

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Thyristor T1 and D1 conduct from ωt = α to π

Thyristor T2 and D2 conduct from ωt = (π + α) to 2 π
FWD conducts during ωt = 0 to α, π to (π + α) , …..

Load Voltage & Load Current Waveform of Single Phase Semi Converter for α < 900
& Continuous load current operation
vO Vm

ωt
0
α

iO
α α α

ωt
0
α π 2π 3π
(π+α) (2π+α)

(i) To Derive an Expression for The DC Output Voltage of A Single Phase Semi
Converter with R, L, & E Load & FWD For Continuous, Ripple Free Load Current
Operation
π
1
vO .d (ωt )
π ωt∫=0
VO( dc) = Vdc =

π
1
Vm sin ωt.d (ωt )
π α∫
∴ VO( dc) = Vdc =

π
Vm  
VO( dc) = Vdc =  − cos ω t 
π  α

V
VO( dc) = Vdc = m [ − cos π + cos α ] ; cos π = −1
π
Vm
∴ VO( dc) = Vdc = (1 + cosα )
π

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Vdc can be varied from a max.

2Vm
value of to 0 by varying α from 0 to π .
π
For α = 0, The max. dc o/p voltage obtained is
2Vm
Vdc( max ) = Vdm =
π
Normalized dc o/p voltage is
Vm
Vdc π (
1 + cos α )
1
Vdcn = Vn = = = (1 + cos α )
Vdn  2Vm  2
 π 
 
(ii) RMS O/P Voltage VO(RMS)
1
π
 2  2
VO( RMS ) =  ∫ Vm2 sin 2 ωt.d (ω t ) 
 2π α 
1
2 π
V  2
VO( RMS ) = 
 2π
m
∫α (1 − cos 2ωt ) .d (ωt )
1
Vm  1  sin 2α   2
VO( RMS ) = π π − α + 2 
2  

4.7.2 Single Phase Full Wave Full Converter (Fully Controlled Bridge Converter) With
R, L, & E Load

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Waveforms of Single Phase Full Converter Assuming Continuous (Constant Load

Current) & Ripple Free Load Current.

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iO Constant Load Current

iO=Ia
Ia
ωt
α π+α
iT1 Ia Ia
& iT2 ωt
α π+α 2π+α
iT3 Ia
& iT4 ωt
π+α 2π+α 3π+α

(i) To Derive An Expression For The Average DC Output Voltage of a Single Phase Full
Converter assuming Continuous & Constant Load Current

The average dc output voltage

can be determined by using the expression
2π
1  
VO( dc ) = Vdc =  ∫ vO .d (ω t )  ;
2π  0 
The o/p voltage waveform consists of two o/p
pulses during the input supply time period of
0 to 2π radians. Hence the Average or dc
o/p voltage can be calculated as
π +α
2  
VO( dc) = Vdc =  ∫ Vm sin ωt.d (ωt ) 
2π  α 
2V π +α
VO( dc) = Vdc = m [ − cos ωt ]α
2π
2V
VO( dc) = Vdc = m cosα
π
Maximum average dc output voltage is
calculated for a trigger angle α = 00
and is obtained as
2Vm 2Vm
Vdc( max ) = Vdm = × cos ( 0 ) =
π π
2Vm
∴Vdc( max ) = Vdm =
π

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The normalized average output voltage is given by

VO( dc) Vdc
Vdcn = Vn = =
Vdc( max) Vdm
2Vm
cosα
∴Vdcn = Vn = π = cosα
2Vm
π
By plotting VO(dc) versus α, we obtain the control characteristic of a single phase full
wave fully controlled bridge converter (single phase full converter) for constant &
continuous load current operation.

To plot the control characteristic of a

Single Phase Full Converter for constant
& continuous load current operation.
We use the equation for the average/ dc
output voltage
2Vm
VO( dc ) = Vdc = cos α
π

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VO(dc)

Vdm

0.6Vdm

0.2 Vdm
α
0
30 60 90 120 150 180
-0.2Vdm

-0.6 Vdm

-Vdm
Trigger angle α in degrees

• During the period from ωt = α to π the input voltage vS and the input current iS are
both positive and the power flows from the supply to the load.
• The converter is said to be operated in the rectification mode Controlled Rectifier
Operation for 0 < α < 900
• During the period from ωt = π to (π+α), the input voltage vS is negative and the
input current iS is positive and the output power becomes negative and there will be
reverse power flow from the load circuit to the supply.
• The converter is said to be operated in the inversion mode.
Line Commutated Inverter Operation for 900 < α < 1800

Two Quadrant Operation of a Single Phase Full Converter

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(ii) To Derive an Expression for the RMS Value of the Output Voltage

The rms value of the output voltage

is calculated as
2π
1  2 
VO( RMS ) =  ∫ vO .d (ω t ) 
2π  0 

The single phase full converter gives two

output voltage pulses during the input supply
time period and hence the single phase full
converter is referred to as a two pulse converter.
The rms output voltage can be calculated as
π +α
2  
VO( RMS ) =  ∫ vO .d (ω t ) 
2

2π  α 

The single phase full converter gives two

output voltage pulses during the input supply
time period and hence the single phase full
converter is referred to as a two pulse converter.
The rms output voltage can be calculated as
π +α
2  
=  ∫ vO .d (ω t ) 
2
VO( RMS )
2π  α 

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π +α π +α
Vm2   sin 2ω t  
VO( RMS ) =  (ω t ) −  
2π  α  2  α 
Vm2   sin 2 (π + α ) − sin 2α  
VO( RMS ) =  (π + α − α ) −  
2π   2  

Vm2   sin ( 2π + 2α ) − sin 2α  

VO( RMS ) =  (π ) −   ;
2π   2  
sin ( 2π + 2α ) = sin 2α

Vm2  sin 2α − sin 2α  

VO( RMS ) =  (π ) −  
2π   2 
Vm2 Vm2 Vm
VO( RMS ) = ( )
π − 0 = =
2π 2 2
V
∴VO ( RMS ) = m = VS
2
Hence the rms output voltage is same as the
rms input supply voltage

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4.7.3 Thyristor Current Waveforms

iO Constant Load Current

iO=Ia
Ia
ωt
α π+α
iT1 Ia Ia
& iT2 ωt
α π+α 2π+α
iT3 Ia
& iT4 ωt
π+α 2π+α 3π+α

The rms thyristor current can be

calculated as
I O( RMS )
IT ( RMS ) =
2
The average thyristor current can be
calculated as
I O( dc )
IT ( Avg ) =
2

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4.8 Single Phase Dual Converter

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The average dc output voltage of converter 1 is

2V
Vdc1 = m cos α1
π
The average dc output voltage of converter 2 is
2V
Vdc 2 = m cos α 2
π
In the dual converter operation one
converter is operated as a controlled rectifier
withα < 900 & the second converter is
operated as a line commutated inverter
in the inversion mode with α > 900
∴ Vdc1 = −Vdc 2
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2Vm −2Vm 2Vm

cos α1 = cos α 2 = ( − cos α 2 )
π π π
∴ cos α1 = − cos α 2
or
cos α 2 = − cos α1 = cos (π − α1 )
∴ α 2 = (π − α1 ) or
(α1 + α 2 ) = π radians
Which gives
α 2 = (π − α1 )

(i) To Obtain an Expression for the Instantaneous Circulating Current

• vO1 = Instantaneous o/p voltage of converter 1.
• vO2 = Instantaneous o/p voltage of converter 2.
• The circulating current ir can be determined by integrating the instantaneous voltage
difference (which is the voltage drop across the circulating current reactor Lr),
starting from ωt = (2π - α1).
• As the two average output voltages during the interval ωt = (π+α1) to (2π - α1) are
equal and opposite their contribution to the instantaneous circulating current ir is zero.

1  ωt 
ir =  ∫ vr .d (ω t )  ; vr = ( vO1 − vO 2 )
ω Lr ( 2π −α1 ) 
As the o/p voltage vO 2 is negative
vr = ( vO1 + vO 2 )

1  ωt 
∴ ir =  ∫ ( vO1 + vO 2 ) .d (ω t )  ;
ω Lr ( 2π −α1 ) 
vO1 = −Vm sin ω t for ( 2π − α1 ) to ω t

Vm  ωt ωt 
ir =  ∫ − sin ω t.d (ω t ) − ∫ sin ω t.d (ω t ) 
ω Lr  ( 2π −α1 ) ( 2π −α1 ) 
2Vm
ir = ( cos ω t − cos α 1 )
ω Lr
The instantaneous value of the circulating current
depends on the delay angle.

For trigger angle (delay angle) α1 = 0,

the magnitude of circulating current becomes min.
when ω t = nπ , n = 0, 2, 4,.... & magnitude becomes
max. when ω t = nπ , n = 1,3, 5,.... Page 163
If the peak load current is I p , one of the
converters that controls the power flow
www.getmyuni.com
10EC73

where
Vm
I p = I L( max) = ,
RL
&
4Vm
ir( max) = = max. circulating current
ω Lr

The Dual Converter Can Be Operated In Two Different Modes Of Operation

• Non-circulating current (circulating current free) mode of operation.
• Circulating current mode of operation

Non-Circulating Current Mode of Operation

• In this mode only one converter is operated at a time.
• When converter 1 is ON, 0 < α1 < 900
• Vdc is positive and Idc is positive.
• When converter 2 is ON, 0 < α2 < 900
• Vdc is negative and Idc is negative.

Circulating Current Mode Of Operation

• In this mode, both the converters are switched ON and operated at the same time.
• The trigger angles α1 and α2 are adjusted such that (α1 + α2) = 1800 ; α2 = (1800 -
α1).
• When 0 <α1 <900, converter 1 operates as a controlled rectifier and converter 2
operates as an inverter with 900 <α2<1800.
• In this case Vdc and Idc, both are positive.
• When 900 <α1 <1800, converter 1 operates as an Inverter and converter 2 operated as
a controlled rectifier by adjusting its trigger angle α2 such that 0 <α2<900.
• In this case Vdc and Idc, both are negative.

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4.8.1 Four Quadrant Operation

Advantages of Circulating Current Mode of Operation

• The circulating current maintains continuous conduction of both the converters over
the complete control range, independent of the load.
• One converter always operates as a rectifier and the other converter operates as an
inverter, the power flow in either direction at any time is possible.
• As both the converters are in continuous conduction we obtain faster dynamic
response. i.e., the time response for changing from one quadrant operation to another
is faster.

Disadvantages of Circulating Current Mode of Operation

• There is always a circulating current flowing between the converters.
• When the load current falls to zero, there will be a circulating current flowing
between the converters so we need to connect circulating current reactors in order to
limit the peak circulating current to safe level.
• The converter thyristors should be rated to carry a peak current much greater than the
peak load current.

Recommended questions:

1. Give the classification of converters, based on: a) Quadrant operation b) Number of

current pulse c) supply input. Give examples in each case.
2. With neat circuit diagram and wave forms, explain the working of 1 phase HWR
using SCR for R-load. Derive the expressions for Vdc and Idc.
3. With a neat circuit diagram and waveforms, explain the working of 1-phase HCB for
R-load and R-L-load.
4. Determine the performance factors for 1-phase HCB circuit.

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5. With a neat circuit diagram and waveforms, explain the working of 1-phase FCB for
R and R-L-loads.
6. Determine the performance factors for 1-phase FCB circuit.
7. What is dual converter? Explain the working principle of 1-phase dual converter.
What are the modes of operation of dual converters? Explain briefly.
8. With a neat circuit diagram and waveforms explain the working of 3 phase HHCB
using SCRs. Obtain the expressions for Vdc and Idc.
9. With a neat circuit diagram and waveforms, explain the working of 3-phase HWR
using SCRs. Obtain the expressions for Vdc and Idc.
10. With a neat circuit diagram and waveforms, explain the working of 3 phase FCB
using SCRs. Obtain the expressions for Vdc and Idc.
11. Draw the circuit diagram of 3 phase dual converter. Explain its working?
12. List the applications of converters. Explain the effect of battery in the R-L-E load in
converters.
13. A single phase half wave converter is operated from a 120V, 60 Hz supply. If the
load resistive load is R=10Ω and the delay angle is α=π/3, determine a) the efficiency
b) the form factor c) the transformer utilization factor and d) the peak inverse voltage
(PIV) of thyristor T1
14. A single phase half wave converter is operated from a 120 V, 60 Hz supply and the
load resistive load is R=10. If the average output voltage is 25% of the maximum
possible average output voltage, calculate a) the delay angel b) the rms and average
output current c) the average and ram thyristor current and d) the input power factor.
15. A single half wave converter is operated from a 120 V, 60Hz supply and freewheeling
diodes is connected across the load. The load consists of series-connected resistance
R=10Ω, L=mH, and battery voltage E=20V. a) Express the instantaneous output
voltage in a Fourier series, and b) determine the rms value of the lowest order output
harmonic current.
16. A single phase semi-converter is operated from 120V, 60 Hz supply. The load current
with an average value of Ia is continuous with negligible ripple content. The turns
ratio of the transformer is unity. If the delay angle is A= π/3, calculate a) the
harmonic factor of input current b) the displacement factor and c) the input power
factor.
17. A single phase semi converter is operated from 120V, 60Hz supply. The load consists
of series connected resistance R=10Ω, L=5mH and battery voltage E=20V. a)
Express the instantaneous output voltage in a Fourier series, b) Determine the rms
value of the lowest order output harmonic current.
18. The three phase half wave converter is operated from a three phase Y connected
220V, 60Hz supply and freewheeling diodes is connected across the load. The load
consists of series connected resistance R=10Ω, L=5mH and battery voltage E=120V.
a) Express the instantaneous output voltage in a Fourier series and b) Determine the
rms value of the lowest order output harmonic current.

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13. without a series inductor? What is the ratio of peak resonant to load current for resonant
pulse commutation that would minimize the commutation losses?
14. Why does the commutation capacitor in a resonant pulse commutation get over
charged?
15. How is the voltage of the commutation capacitor reversed in a commutation circuit?
16. What is the type of a capacitor used in high frequency switching circuits?

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