Abstract

High-power DC-DC converters are essential for efficient power conversion in emerging DC networks. This paper presents a comparative analysis of bridge topologies suitable for medium–voltage (10-40 kV), isolated DC-DC converters, focusing on a 2-Level topology using series-connected SiC MOSFETs, and quasi-2-Level topologies, specifically the Flying Capacitor Converter and the Modular Multilevel Converter. Key performance indicators (KPIs) including semiconductor devices counts, voltage slew-rate during switching (dV/dt), energy stored in passive elements, and efficiency are analyzed. KPIs are evaluated across various voltage levels and two specific case studies. The Modular Multilevel Converter with quasi-2-level operation is demonstrated to be particularly appealing at higher voltage levels due to its modular design.

Jose Andres Aguilar Croston, Jean-Yves Gauthier, Cyril Buttay, Maryam Saeedifard, Besar Asllani, Piotr Dworakowski

Presented at APEC 2025