A Comparative Analysis of Soft Switching Techniques in Reducing the Energy Loss and Improving the Soft Switching Range in Power Converters

Abstract

This paper presents a comparative analysis of the zero-voltage zero-current switching (ZVZCS) soft switching technique with zero-voltage switching (ZVS) and zero-current switching (ZCS) counterparts. The generalization of the voltage–current crossover or the energy loss factor obtained from simulation of the prototype converter shows that the ZVZCS significantly reduces the losses and helps to improve the efficiency of the converter as compared to the ZVS or the ZCS. On the other hand, it is also found that the soft switching range of operation of the ZVS and the ZCS is largely affected by the maximum switch voltage and switch current, respectively. In contrast, these factors have a negligible effect on the ZVZCS operation which results in an extended range of soft switching operation. Additionally, a detailed PSPICE simulation is performed for selected ZVS, ZCS, and ZVZCS topologies from the recent literature, and the switching losses in the main switches of the converters are measured. It is observed that the energy losses in the ZVZCS mode are reduced on average by approximately 26% at turn on and 20% at turn off as compared to the ZVS and the ZCS. Furthermore, the low standard deviation in this mode confirms a stable low-loss profile which renders an extended soft switching range. An experimental test is also conducted by building the prototype converter to verify the simulation results. It is found that the switching losses are minimum while the converter is operated in the ZVZCS mode. Additionally, the efficiency drop remains consistently low as compared to the ZVS and the ZCS in the whole operating range. Accordingly, the simulation and the experimental results are both found to be consistent.

Analysis of two-section phase-controlled resonant voltage converter

“…The amplitudes of these pulses are equal to the supply voltage Е, and their duty-cycle D is close to 0.5. To ensure zero voltage switching (ZVS) of transistors the operating frequency should be higher than the resonant frequency of the inverter, and a dead-time delay should be provided between the closed states of the transistor switches in each half-bridge [2,13]. Multi-section converter may have several regulating sections, each of which may have its own phase shift [22].…”

“…Therefore, in the two-section converter, the switching frequency should not be greater than this value. The second condition of ZVS is the provision of a time delay between the closed states of the transistors, sufficient for the charge-discharge of their parasitic capacitances [13,14].…”

Design and Modelling of an Induction Heating Coil to Investigate the Thermal Response of Magnetic Nanoparticles for Hyperthermia Applications

“…For example, Zero Voltage Zero Current (ZVZC) switches used in power electronics can force the voltage or current in a switch to zero using a resonant frequency [27]. This can achieve a reduction in switching losses [28]. The ZVZC technique was found to be the most cost-effective option, as it negates the need for a more complex control system [29].…”

Design of an Integrated, Six-Phase, Interleaved, Synchronous DC/DC Boost Converter on a Fuel-Cell-Powered Sport Catamaran

“…Isolated resonant LLC converters are valid alternatives, especially in such applications with high-voltage levels where galvanic insulation between FC and battery is required [13,14]. Resonant DC/DC converters provide higher voltage gain and allow one to increase the conversion efficiency by using soft-switching techniques [15]. However, LLC converters require more complex control and the use of additional components, such as the compensation capacitors and the (often custom-made) transformer.…”