Comparative Analysis using Different Inverter Topologies for Traction System

Abstract

The induction motor three phase drive provides an increase in the overall performance of electric traction equipment. With the ability to increase the level of the installed power, the train operator has been able to improve train operating times, the speed of the traction unit and the demand on the power supply system. With the introduction of inverter drives it has become necessary to complete a systems approach to ensure the safe operation of existing railway electrification infrastructure, and the safety critical areas of train signaling, and telecommunications. The conventional type of inverter suffers with the shoot through issues to avoid these problems traction drive systems using the Z-source inverter. By controlling the shoot-through duty cycle and modulation index, we can control the drive effectively. With the impedance network, the Z-source inverter can advantageously use the shoot through state to boost voltage. This one-stage power conversion and control system has higher reliability, higher efficiency, and lower cost. These facts make the Z-source inverter desirable for use in hybrid electric vehicles, as the cost and complexity is reduced when compared to the traditional inverters.
Keywords—Z source inverter; locomotives; constant boost control; electric traction