Inverter Circuit Comprehensive Presentation on Types, Working Principles, and Applications
Introduction to Inverter • An inverter converts DC (Direct Current) into AC (Alternating Current). • Used in power systems, solar setups, UPS, and motor drives. • Main function: DC → AC conversion with desired voltage and frequency.
Basic Inverter Block Diagram • Components: DC Source, Switching Devices, Control Circuit, Output Filter, and Load. • Output waveform can be square, quasi-square, or sinusoidal.
Single-Line Inverter Representation DC Source → Inverter → AC Load • Simplified single-line diagram shows power flow. • Used for conceptual understanding and system overview.
Forced Commutated Thyristor Inverter • Uses thyristors (SCRs) that require external commutation. • Commutation circuit applies reverse voltage to turn OFF SCR. • Produces AC output by alternating SCR conduction.
Commutation Methods • Class A – Load Commutation • Class B – Resonant Commutation • Class C – Complementary Commutation • Class D – Auxiliary Commutation • Class E – External Pulse Commutation.
Three-Phase Bridge Inverter • Converts DC into three-phase AC output. • Consists of six switches arranged in a bridge. • Produces 3-phase output (120° apart): phases A, B, C. • Used in motor drives and industrial systems.
PWM (Pulse Width Modulation) Inverter • Controls output voltage by varying pulse width. • Uses a reference sine wave and high-frequency carrier. • Produces near-sinusoidal output with low harmonics. • Types: Single, Multiple, Sinusoidal, and Space Vector PWM.
PWM Waveform Concept • When reference sine > carrier → switch ON. • When reference sine < carrier → switch OFF. • Adjusting pulse width controls effective voltage output.
Current Source Inverter (CSI) • Input is a constant DC current (maintained by large inductor). • Output current waveform is controlled, voltage depends on load. • Suitable for motor drives and high-power applications.
Voltage vs Current Source Inverter Voltage Source Inverter (VSI): • Constant DC voltage input • Output voltage controlled Current Source Inverter (CSI): • Constant DC current input • Output current controlled
Series Inverter (Series Resonant Inverter) • Load, inductor (L), and capacitor (C) are in series. • Resonance provides natural commutation. • Produces sinusoidal current at resonant frequency. • Used in induction heating.
Parallel Inverter (Parallel Resonant Inverter) • Load connected in parallel with L–C circuit. • SCRs conduct alternately to generate AC. • Natural commutation and sinusoidal output. • Used in ultrasonic and lighting applications.
Steady-State Operation • Occurs when inverter outputs repeat periodically. • Transients have died out. • Output voltage, current, and frequency are stable. • Important for efficiency and waveform analysis.
Advantages of Inverters • Converts renewable DC to AC. • Enables variable-speed motor control. • Compact and efficient. • Used in UPS, solar, and EVs.
Disadvantages of Inverters • Harmonics in output (requires filters). • Switching losses. • Complex control for PWM or thyristor types.
Applications • Solar power systems • Uninterruptible Power Supplies (UPS) • Variable Frequency Drives (VFDs) • Induction heating and motor control
Conclusion Inverters are key in modern electrical and renewable systems. They enable DC–AC conversion efficiently, with advanced control through PWM and resonant circuits for high performance and reliability.