IGCT based Modular Multilevel Converter for an AC-AC Rail Power Supply

In this paper, a comparison between IGBT and IGCT semiconductor technologies in modular multilevel converters (MMCs) for AC-AC railway power supply applications is presented. The comparison is between system aspects such as grid and converter failure behavior, protection and losses. Regarding losses, this paper focuses on the AC-AC railway power supply application. Converter failure behavior is discussed in general for all MMC applications. Additionally, measurements of the loss of cell behavior of the converter are shown.