Mathematical study of two controlled converter-type utility interface for harmonic attenuation

Diode rectifiers are very popular in industry from a few kW to a few hundreds of kW. Two methods based on controlled converter-type utility interface are possible for harmonic-pollution problems caused by the diode rectifiers: one replacing the diode rectifier with a PWM rectifier and the other connecting an active power filter to the diode rectifier. Despite numerous publications for the two converters, the features and evaluations between them have not been clearly explained. This paper, in detail, presents theoretical analyses and systematic comparisons of the two converters, from the point of view of converter kVA ratings, dc bus voltage requirements, switch ratings, and reactive component designs.