Analysis of Plasma Reactor Interaction with the Power Grid Depending on the Power Supply Design

Abstract

In this paper, the collaboration of a GlidArc-type plasma reactor with four dedicated power supplies was analysed. Each power supply is characterised by a different design solution. Plasma generation by electrical discharge requires a careful analysis of the power supply design, its operating characteristics, currents, voltages and frequencies. Although the power supplies tested have similar abilities and provide similar power supply parameters, different plasma reactor performance characteristics are obtained for each of them. The results indicate that some power supply parameters were overestimated or underestimated at the design stage. Some of the power supplies tested under plasma reactor load also show poor interaction with the mains. The interaction of the power supplies with the plasma reactor and the mains supply is strongly influenced by the type of plasma gas. Analyses indicate that an optimally designed power supply should combine the solutions contained in each of the power supplies tested.

Effect of Plasma Gas Type on the Operation Characteristics of a Three-Phase Plasma Reactor with Gliding Arc Discharge

“…Free arc plasma is characterized by relatively low-quality technological and energy parameters [55], and the arc itself adversely affects the power grid. Low-temperature arcs generate a lot of electromagnetic interference, voltage sinks and surges, overvoltage, noise and harmonic distortion in the voltage and current [56].…”

Cooperation of the Plasma Reactor with a Converter Power Supply Equipped with a Transformer with Special Design

“…The authors of [16] present the problems of construction and the operation of several types of power supply systems for a three-phase plasma reactor with a gliding arc discharge. Of the studied power supplies, the power converter supply system (PCS) shown in Figure 1 manifested the most features predisposing it to powering plasma reactors.…”

“…The solution to these problems is to use a transformer that increases the voltage to the value required for the ignition of the discharge and is adapted to work with an electric discharge load. Of the power systems presented in [16] and only using a transformer in its design, a five-limb transformer (IFCTPS) with a special design (Figure 2) is characterized by good cooperation with the plasma reactor. Using the properties of the five-limb core, this transformer integrates the functions of igniting the discharge in the reactor and sustaining its burning in a single device.…”