Comparative Analysis of Loads Under AC and DC Supply

The development of DC distribution networks in restricted environments, such as the interior of buildings, embedded in ships, airplanes, etc. has expanded due to the ease of integration of distributed generation, mainly photovoltaic, and energy storage devices, such as batteries, and also due to the possibility of reduced power losses. However, the availability of electronic loads that can be fed directly in DC is still limited and more studies could be done on the use of AC loads with these microgrids. This work investigates the use of AC electronic loads with DC supply, within the voltage limits of the AC load. Experimental loads and real loads are considered (power supplies and lighting devices, with different characteristics). The efficiency of the rectifier stage and the proper operation of the load are analyzed. From the results of these tests, it is hoped to provide a comparison of the main characteristics between the two supply modes and it is shown that DC operation may provide benefits in efficiency over AC operation in some cases.