Recent Developments in Single-Phase Power Factor Correction

The development of single-phase power factor correction (PFC) technologies was traditionally driven by the need for computers, telecommunication, lighting, and other electronic devices and systems to meet harmonic current limits defined by IEC 61000-3-2 and other regulatory standards. Recently, several new applications have emerged as additional drivers for the development of the technologies. One such application is commercial transport airplanes where single-phase PFC converters capable of meeting stringent airborne power quality requirements are required for in-flight entertainment (IFE), avionics, communication, and other single-phase loads. The proliferation of variable-speed motor drives in home appliances has also generated a new need for high-power (up to a few kilowatts), high-efficiency, and low-cost single-phase PFC converters. New PFC circuits, control methods, as well as EMI modeling and design techniques are being developed in response to these new requirements, which are reviewed in this paper. Specific subjects to be covered include airborne and home appliance applications, as well as EMI modeling and EMI filter design optimization.