A new matrix converter‐based feeding system for DC electric arc furnaces and a comprehensive comparison between different types of feeding topologies

This paper presents a novel feeding system based on matrix converter power supply for DC electric arc furnaces. This recommended topology possesses many promising features like overcoming the disadvantages of conventional DC power supply systems, improving the efficiency of feeding system, and power quality indices improvement in the grid side. It comprises a matrix converter controlled by space vector modulation (SVM) strategy with a single-sided switching pattern and a six-pulse diode rectifier. The primary function of this topology is to regulate the rms value of fixed input voltage of AC source to the proper value utilizing matrix converter, and then a six-pulse diode rectifier can be applied to provide the required DC voltage for supplying DC arc furnace. The selection of matrix converter has been made because of particular advantages such as controllable input power factor, mitigation of input current harmonics, and controllable output frequency. The suggested configuration predominates because of the lower number of rectifier units and smoothing reactors. Moreover, the suggested feeding system does not have any current or power-sharing problems, and only one proportional-integral (PI) controller is adequate to control the DC arc current or its power. Note that the matrix converter used in this topology is three-phase to three-phase and utilized an improved passive filter (IPF) at the input side.