Cascaded Multi-level Inverter

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Program:
CIRCUITS
Award:
$1,437,015
Location:
Blacksburg, Virginia
Status:
ALUMNI
Project Term:
12/15/2017 - 12/14/2021
Website:

Technology Description:

Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University (Virginia Tech) will develop a wide-bandgap-based, high power (100 kW) DC-to-AC inverter that can receive power from sources like batteries or solar panels and transfer it directly to the medium voltage level of the utility grid. The team will also integrate the device with an existing medium voltage AC-to-DC converter to build a bidirectional solid-state transformer that converts low-voltage AC to high-voltage AC without using heavy, low-frequency materials such as copper and iron in its design. The hardware prototype will be packaged with a high power density design, having the potential to reduce size by two orders of magnitude over the current solid-state transformers. The cooling system is minimized due to the high efficiency and implementation of a convection-cooled heat sink. If successful, the project could lead to the first commercially viable medium voltage solid-state transformer, using just a single-stage process to obtain high efficiency power conversion.

Potential Impact:

If successful, CIRCUITS projects will enable further development of a new class of power converters suitable for a broad range of applications including motor drives for heavy equipment and consumer appliances, electric vehicle battery charging, high-performance computer data centers, grid applications for stability and resilience, and emerging electric propulsion systems.

Security:

More robust power electronics that withstand higher operating temperatures, have increased durability, a smaller form factor, and higher efficiency will significantly improve the reliability and security of a resilient electrical grid.

Environment:

Low cost and highly efficient power electronics could lead to more affordable electric and hybrid-electric transportation, greater integration of renewable power sources, and higher efficiency electric motors for use in heavy industries and consumer applications.

Economy:

Electricity is the fastest growing form of end-use energy in the United States. High performance, low cost power electronics would enable significant efficiency gains across the economy, reducing energy costs for businesses and families.

Contact

ARPA-E Program Director:
Dr. Isik Kizilyalli
Project Contact:
Prof. Jason Lai
Press and General Inquiries Email:
ARPA-E-Comms@hq.doe.gov
Project Contact Email:
laijs@vt.edu

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Release Date:
01/18/2017