Thermal Loss Analysis For Model Predictive Controlled Three-Level F-type Inverter

The availability of recently developed medium-voltage (MV) IGBT switch modules has made the diode-free alternative topology of three-level inverters a promising option, particularly for MV applications. Diode-free three-level-based solutions possess a smaller number of components and lower conduction losses in contrast to the diode-clamped NPC inverter. Nevertheless, some switches have to withstand half of the DC-link voltage, which still imposes restrictions on implementing a 3-level T-type inverter leg. This paper presents a reconfigured power circuit for a 3-level F-type inverter leg using a four-switch per phase-leg configuration. Compared to existing restrictions in T-type phase legs, the F-type phase leg reduces voltage stress, cost, and loss of the inverter. In this paper, an assessment is conducted to evaluate the performance and effectiveness of the F-type inverter. The investigation includes thermal analysis, switching loss, and efficiency analysis of the F-type inverter controlled by model predictive controllers. The results indicate that the F-type inverter acquires better loss distribution than the T-type inverter, revealing its usage in certain low-voltage and medium-voltage applications.