AC-link™ Converter Topology for Power-Dense AC and DC Applications

This paper explores applications of the novel AC-link™ technology, a fundamentally different method of distributing and converting electrical power that is well suited to a wide variety of power distribution and Directed Energy Weapon (DEW) applications: DC-DC, AC-DC, or AC-AC. In particular, this paper will explore directed energy, load-leveling, and pulsed power applications and the advantages they gain from AC- link™'s low output voltage ripple, <1% to 3% input harmonic currents, and four-quadrant operation. A DC- DC prototype AC-link™ unit has been completed with an output of 50kVDC and power density of 1.4 MW/m3. A preliminary design of a 4,160 V AC 95 kV regulated supply has a projected power density of ~3 MW/m3 with a small internal transformer operating at ~20 kHz. This paper will also present a new transformerless AC-link™ design with a power density of around 5 MW/m3 for diode-pumped laser applications.