Design and experimental characterization of a modular GaN-based three-phase and three-level ANPC inverter for electric traction

Abstract This paper presents the design and the experimental characterization of an 800 V 11 kVA three-level three-phase active neutral point clamped inverter, utilizing 650 V gallium nitride enhancement-mode high-electron-mobility transistors. The proposed scaled-down prototype design has been developed for electric traction systems. The modular approach of the presented power converter design is discussed in detail, and the different parts composing the power conversion unit are presented. Moreover, critical issues related to the design of power converters employing gallium nitride technology are highlighted for both power and gate driving sections. In addition, PCB’s thermal analysis and parasitic extraction are discussed, and for the latter the results of the conducted finite element analysis are reported. Experimental characterization of the designed prototype is performed on a 7.5 kW induction motor drive. Experimental results are reported, and the power conversion unit’s performances are evaluated in terms of efficiency at different operating conditions of the electric drive.