Seven Level Hybrid Clamped (7L-HC) Converter in Medium Voltage Wind Energy Conversion Systems

In response to the need for more efficient wind power energy conversion, the multilevel converters have been accepted as promising options in medium voltage Wind Energy Conversion System (WECS). This paper studies the application of a newly proposed topology - seven-level (7L) hybrid-clamped (HC) topology in WECS. Based on the switching states, the ability to balance the floating capacitor and DC-link capacitor in back-to-back converters are analyzed. Then an example is given to verify the operation of 7L-HC in WECS, particularly the capacitor balancing capability. Based on simulation and experimental results, the feasibility of applying 7L-HC converter for WECS is validated.