Frequency Limitation Method for Reducing the Power Rating of a Single-Phase Active Filter

Abstract

Recently, many energy-saving household appliances such as air conditioners, refrigerators, and LED bulbs are being used in residences. Most household appliances use diode rectifiers equipped with smoothing dc capacitors, which output a large amount of harmonic current into utility lines. This harmonic current may cause electrical equipment to malfunction or fail. This paper discusses the harmonic compensation characteristics and power rating of a single-phase active filter, and proposes the use of control methods for reducing the power rating of the active filter. Furthermore, three single-phase active filters in conjunction with the proposed control method are used in an experiment on a three-phase system. The experimental results confirm that the frequency limitation method is suitable for a single-phase active filter.