Research on Asymmetrical Operation of Multilevel Converter-Type Solid-State Transformers Based on High-Frequency Link Interconnection

The large size of the sub-module (SM) capacitor is a typical problem in traditional modular multilevel converter-type solid-state transformers (MMC-SSTs). The MMC-SST based on high-frequency link interconnection is an effective solution for achieving lightweight capacitance. This structure can help to eliminate the symmetric SM fluctuating power, thereby reducing the SM capacitance. In a three-phase interconnected MMC-SST with low capacitance, potential risks may arise during transient processes, especially in cases of three-phase voltage asymmetry, such as large fluctuations in the SM voltage and unstable DC bus voltage. Aiming to solve this problem, this article re-analyzes the internal power characteristics of the MMC-SST under asymmetric operation and re-derives the SM capacitance constraint suitable for different degrees of three-phase voltage asymmetry. The new SM capacitance constraint enhances the asymmetric voltage ride-through capability of the MMC-SST. The new capacitance constraint is higher than that in symmetric operation, but it still has significant advantages in capacitance compared with the traditional MMC-SST.