Projeto e desenvolvimento de um retificador híbrido com alta densidade de potência utilizando técnica de compensação série no barramento CC para aplicações em HVDC no contexto MEA – More Electric Aircrafts

Abstract

The process of replacing hydraulic and pneumatic systems with electrical systems onboard aircraft, known as More Electric Aircrafts (MEA), has driven the development of power electronics converters with high power density and robustness. In this context, this doctoral thesis presents the results of research aimed at developing a Three-Phase Hybrid Rectifier with a High Voltage Direct Current (HVDC) output bus, designated RHT-HVDC-MEA. The architecture of this converter consists of a cascaded combination of a three-phase Boost converter with a Series Resonant LLC converter and, in parallel, with an Uncontrolled Rectifier. This configuration ensures power processing is divided between the converters, reducing losses and increasing the overall efficiency of the structure. Furthermore, the methodology employed utilizes high-bandwidth digital signal processing, allowing the design of a single controller to regulate the voltage on the output DC bus. This approach simplifies the design, reduces the number of sensors required, and significantly improves the converter's robustness and reliability. The performance of the RHT-HVDC-MEA converter was validated through detailed computer simulations and the construction of a reduced-scale prototype with a nominal power of 1.2kW. The results demonstrate that the converter exhibits high efficiency (97%), excellent dynamic response to the frequency variations typical of aeronautical systems (400Hz to 800Hz), and compliance with the stringent requirements of the DO-160F standard, with a Total Harmonic Distortion of Current (THDi) of only 3.9%. These characteristics position the RHT-HVDC-MEA as a promising solution for MEA applications, meeting the growing demand for more compact, efficient, and reliable electrical systems in modern aviation.