Executive Summary
This thesis evaluates a novel four-leg power converter for electromagnetic interference (EMI) compliance, power quality, and grid interoperability, specifically for naval applications. It demonstrates superior EMI performance and adherence to military standards (MIL-STD-461G, MIL-STD-1399) in grid-forming mode, with recommendations for improving grid-following mode compliance. The converter is deemed suitable for microgrids, UPS, and naval integrated power electronics building blocks (NiPEBBs).
Why It Matters
This document is crucial for defense analysts as it details the development and evaluation of advanced power electronics vital for modern naval platforms and military installations, directly impacting energy security, resilience, and the integration of renewable energy within defense infrastructure.
Key Takeaways
- The novel four-leg converter demonstrates superior common-mode electromagnetic interference (EMI) performance in grid-forming mode, meeting MIL-STD-461G requirements.
Source evidence · PDF page 108
The experimental results demonstrated that the four-leg converter achieved superior CM EMI performance compared to the conventional H-bridge benchmark. In grid-forming mode, the four-leg converter met the requirements of MIL-STD-461G for both CE101 and CE102 across multiple power levels, with the only exception being a well-known 120 𝐻𝑧 anomaly inherent to single-phase systems.
- The converter's power quality meets MIL-STD-1399 standards for shipboard low-voltage AC power, maintaining total harmonic distortion below 5% across various load conditions.
Source evidence · PDF page 108
Power quality analysis confirmed that the four-leg converter met the requirements of MIL-STD-1399 Section 300 for shipboard low-voltage ac power across varying load conditions and modes of operation. Total harmonic distortion remained below the 5% limit across all tested load conditions, with improved THD observed at higher power levels.
- Further refinement is needed for the converter's grid-following mode to achieve full MIL-STD-461G CE102 compliance, but it is well-suited for military microgrids, UPS, and NiPEBBs.],
Source evidence · PDF page 109
Although the objectives were met, the grid-following mode performance, while meeting CE101 limits, requires further refinement to achieve CE102 compliance. Once refined, this converter is well-suited for microgrids, UPS, NiPEBBs, renewable energy integration, and other power electronics applications where EMI mitigation, power density, and grid interoperability are important.
Strategic Relevance
This thesis contributes to the strategic goal of energy resilience and self-sufficiency for military operations by developing and validating advanced power conversion technologies. It directly supports the integration of renewable energy sources and the efficient operation of all-electric naval platforms, enhancing operational capabilities and reducing logistical vulnerabilities.