Design Considerations of an LLC Converter for TEG-based WHR Systems in Shipboard Microgrids

The incorporation of a waste heat recovery system, based on thermoelectric generator modules, in a shipboard microgrid is studied in this paper. Various voltage boosting topologies are discussed and the most appropriate ones are evaluated through the LTspice simulation platform. The design process of the selected LLC resonant converter topology is presented and discussed in detail. In parallel, a flexible control scheme is proposed, capable of either maximum power tracking, or constant voltage (i.e., output voltage regulation) operation, in respect to the load demands. Finally, simulation results indicate the high efficiency that can be achieved with the proposed converter for a wide operating range, as well as the functionality and performance of the controller, in both operating modes.