Power Factor Correction in Modified SEPIC Converter fed Switched Reluctance Motor Drive

Abstract

This paper presents a dual output PFC (Power Factor Correction) converter for switched reluctance motor (SRM) drive. Here, a modified SEPIC (Single Ended Primary Inductance Converter) converter is proposed for wide range of speed control and to achieve power factor correction at AC mains. The switching frequency of the converter is considered at 20 kHz. The converter is designed to operate in DCM (Discontinuous Conduction Mode) of operation, which reduces the size of the output inductor. The DCM mode to obtain PFC, also reduces the sensor requirement as compared to CCM where two voltage sensors and one current sensor, add to the drive cost. The drive is proposed for universal AC mains (90V-270V AC). Simulated and experimental results are demonstrated to validate the performance of the drive during different operating conditions. The input current total harmonic distortion (THD) is reduced to comply an IEC 61000-3-2 standard.