ECEN 438 – Power Electronics Fall 2024
Lab 4: AC-DC Rectification: Three Phase
Lab 4: AC-DC Rectification: Three Phase
The goal of this lab is to investigate the behavior of a three-phase AC-DC rectifier (Figure
1-1). First, we review the principle of operation of a three-phase AC-DC rectifier. Next, we
simulate the rectifier to analyze the effects of its parameters on voltage and current
waveforms. We will be using NI Multisim™ software to simulate the three-phase AC-DC
rectifier. Remember, computer simulation is here to complement your understanding of
fundamental principles, not replace it.
Figure 1-1. Three phase full bridge AC-DC Rectifier [2].
Learning Objectives
After completing this lab, you should be able to complete the following activities.
1. Given an AC-DC diode rectifier with specified parameters and an AC source, you will
simulate its operation to analyze the effect of system parameters on voltage and
current waveforms.
Required Tools and Technology
2
Software: NI Multisim Live ✓ Access
https://www.multisim.com/
✓ View Tutorial
https://www.multisim.com/get-started/
Expected Deliverables
In this lab, you will collect the following deliverables:
✓ Calculations based on equations provided in the Theory and Background Section
✓ Results of circuit simulations performed by NI Multisim Live
✓ Observations and comparisons on simulations results
✓ Questions Answers
Your instructor may expect you to complete a lab report. Refer to your instructor for
specific requirements or templates.
1 Theory and Background
1-1 Introduction
Three-phase rectifiers are commonly used in industry to produce a DC voltage and
current for large loads. The three-phase full-bridge rectifier was shown in Figure 1-1. The
three-phase voltage source is balanced and has phase sequence a-b-c.
Note: You can find additional details, including equations and explanations, in the
“Lecture Notes” which can be accessed here Lecture Notes .
Check Your Understanding
1-1 In a three-phase AC-DC diode rectifier, the output voltage across the load is one of
the line-to-line voltages of the source.
A. True
B. False
1-2 The size of the DC-link Capacitor is larger in a three-phase AC-DC diode rectifier
compared to a single-phase diode AC-DC rectifier.
A. True
B. False
3
2 Exercise
A three-phase rectifier is supplied by a 240-V rms line-to-line 60-Hz source. The load is
an 80-Ω resistor.
2-1 Use the equations provided in the Theory and Background section to determine:
The average load current = _____
The rms load current = _____
The rms source current = _____
The power factor = _____
3 Simulate
The goal of the simulations you will perform in this section is to analyze the operation of
a three phase AC-DC rectifier.
3-1 Simulation 1
The three-phase rectifier of Figure 1-1 has a three-phase source of 480 V rms line-to-line,
and the load is a 25 Ω resistance in series with a 50-mH inductance with ideal diodes.
Using NI Multisim™, show the waveforms and determine the steady-state results of the
following:
(a) The DC level of the output voltage.
(b) The DC and first ac term of the load current.
(c) The average and rms current in the diodes.
(d) The rms current in the source.
(e) The apparent power from the source.
(f) The harmonic content of the line current in the AC source.
3-2 Simulation 2
Design a circuit that will produce a current which has an average value of 15 A in a
resistive load of 20 Ω. The peak-to-peak variation in load current must be no more than
10 percent of the DC current. Voltage sources available are a single phase 480 V rms,
60 Hz source and a three-phase 480 V rms line-to-line 60 Hz source. You may include
additional elements in the circuit. Using NI Multisim™, show the waveforms and
determine the steady-state results of the average, rms, and peak currents in each circuit
element.
4
5 Analyze
5-1 Describe an approach using active elements that you recommend to improve the
power factor and reduce the input current harmonics drawn by a three phase AC-
DC rectifier.
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6 Conclusion
6-1 Summary
Write a summary of what you observed and learned about the operation of a three phase
AC-DC rectifier.
6-2 Resources for learning more
The following books provide the fundamentals of AC-DC diode bridge rectifiers:
[1] N. Mohan, T.M. Undeland, W.P. Robbins, Power Electronics: Converters,
Applications, and Design, John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
[2] Power Electronics, by Daniel W. Hart.
