4 Three Phase Rectifiers

Objectives y Common cathode connection

In this chapter we will cover the following y Common anode connection

concepts:
1. Three-phase half-wave uncontrolled Common cathode connection:
rectifier
2. Three-phase half-wave controlled
rectifier
3. Three-phase full-wave uncontrolled
rectifier
4. Three-phase full-wave controlled rectifier
5. Three-phase full-wave semi-converter
6. Effect of source inductance in single-
phase and three-phase rectifiers.
7. Dual converter

Introduction
Fig. 4.1 Cathode Connection of 3-Φ Half Wave
Rectifiers are used for creating the smooth
DC output voltage and for this purpose Uncontrolled Rectifier

usually filters are used in rectifiers. A filter

circuit is a device that removes the AC 1. In common cathode connection, the
component of rectifier output, but, allows cathodes of all three diodes are connected
the DC component to reach the load. The
together.
filter circuit is installed between the rectifier
and the load. 2. In the common cathode connection,
Single phase rectifier delivers a small
the diode in the phase having maximum
amount of power to load, whereas, three-
phase rectifiers deliver a large amount of source voltage will conduct.
power. The fluctuation in output voltage is
low in the 3-φ rectifier. It is because of the
usage of a large number of diodes, but, due
to theusage of a large number of diodes, the
cost of the rectifier increases. Moreover, the
circuit complexity increases. The transformer
utilization factor and rectification efficiency
are quite high. The ripple factor of 3-ϕ is less
than 1-φ rectifier.

Three Phase Half-Wave Uncontrolled

Rectifier
Two types of connections are possible in a Fig. 4.2 Waveform for Supply of Voltage
3-ϕ half-wave rectifier.
3. Common cathode: V0 = max (Va , Vb , Vc )

Three Phase Rectifiers 159

 3. Common anode: V0 = min (Va , Vb , Vc )

Fig. 4.3 Waveform for Common Cathode Connection

4. The intersection in positive waveform

occurs at 30°, 150° and 270°. Fig. 4.5 Waveform for Common Anode Connection
5. Conduction intervals of the diodes in 4. The intersection in the negative waveform
common cathode. occurs at 90°, 210° and 330°.
D1 : 30° − 150° 5. Conduction intervals of the diodes in

common anode.
D3 : 150° − 270°
D4 : upto 90°

D5 : 270° − 390°
D2 : 90° − 210°

6. Since Va is maximum between 30o and
150o so the diode in Phase-a i.e. D1 will D6 : 210° − 330°

conduct. 6. Common cathode and common anode,
Common anode connection: both are shifted by 60°.
7. Since, Va is maximum between 210o and
330o, so, the diode in Phase – A, i.e., D1
will conduct.

Calculation of output voltage of 3-Φ

uncontrolled rectifier
1. Reference: = VAN Vmp sin ωt
2. It is a three-pulse converter.
360
3. Duration of each pulse
= = 120°
3
4.
= VAN Vmp sin ωt
Conduction angle of phase A
Fig. 4.4 Anode Connection of 3-Φ Half Wave 30 < ωt < 150

Uncontrolled Rectifier
150
1
1. In the common anode connection, the
anode of all three diodes are connected
= V0(avg )
2π 30∫ Vmp sin ωt d ( ωt )
3
together.
2. In a common anode connection, the diode 3Vmp 3 3
= cos 30 − cos 150 = V
in the phase having minimum voltage will 2π 2π mp
conduct.
3Vml
5. If we take, Vml = 3Vmp =
2π

160 Three Phase Rectifiers

 3Vml Three Phase Half-Wave Controlled Rectifier
6. For common anode: V0( avg ) = −
2π
7. RMS output voltage:
1
 150  2

 1
∫30 Vmp sin ωt d ( ωt )
V0( rms )
= 2 2 
 2π
 3 
1
 3  2π 1  2
V0( rms=
) Vmp   − ( sin 300 − sin60 ) 
 4π  3 2 
1
 3  2π 3 
2

= Vmp   + 
 4π  3 2 

Fig. 4.6 3-Φ Half-Wave Controlled Rectifier

1. As in section 4.1, the devices get biased
8. RMS output voltage is the same for
forward as follows,
common cathode or common anode.
T1 = 30o
Example 4.1: In a 3-phase half-wave diode T3 = 150o
rectifier, the ratio of average output voltage
T5 = 270o
to per phase maximum ac voltage is?
2. The thyristor starts to conduct at an
Solution: angle α , later than the angle of forward
For 3 phase half wave diode rectifier biasing.
3 3 T1
= 30o + α
V0 ( avg ) = V
2π mp =
T3 150o + α

V0 T5
= 270o + α
3 3
= = 0.827
Vmp 2π 3. The conduction of each SCR gets shifted
by an angle α , as compared to an
uncontrolled rectifier.
Example 4.2: For a 3-φ half-wave diode
rectifier if this rectifier feeds RL load with 4. R-load does not allow negative output
voltage.
R = 10 Ω and L = 4 mH find the average load
current for 3-φ input voltage of 400 V, 50 Hz. 5. For highly inductive load, conduction is
continuous for all values of α .
Solution: 6. Three pulse converters, where, the
α = 0o for diode rectifier so duration of each pulse is 120° .
5π o
+0 Due to the SCR conduction interval of the
3 6
thyristor.
V0 ( avg )
= ∫ Vmph sin ωt d ( ωt )
2π π o T= 30 + α − 150 + α : VAN
6
+0 1

400 T3
= 150 + α − 270 + α : VBN
VPh
= = 230.94
3 T5
= 270 + α − 390 + α : VCN

3 3 × 230.94 × 2 VAN
7. = Vmp sin ωt
V0 =
2π 30 + α < ωt < 150 + α

V0 = 270.09V
If, the conduction of this voltage goes beyond
V0 270.09 180o, then, the output voltage will become
I0 = = = 27.01 A
R 10

Three Phase Rectifiers 161

 negative but R-load does not allow negative
voltage.
150 + α > 180° α > 30°
∴ if or
It leads to discontinuous conduction.
8. α = 30°, the boundary between (E)
continuous and discontinuous conduction.

Fig. 4.7 Waveforms for Output Voltage (A) α = 30° (B)

(A) α = 60° (R-Load)

(C) α = 60° (Highly L-Load) (D) α = 90° (R-Load) (E) α

= 90° (Highly L-Load)

9. α ≤ 30° (R-Load) or ∀ α (RL load) :

Continuous conduction
150 +α
1
V0(avg )
= ∫ Vmp sin ωt d ( ωt )
2π 30 +α
3
3Vmp
= cos ( 30 + α ) − cos ( 150 + α ) 
(B) 2π  

3Vmp  3  3 
=  cos α −  − cos α  
2π  2  
  2  
3Vml
= cos α
2π
1
 1 150+α 2  2
= V0( rms )  ∫ Vmp sin2 ωt d ( ωt ) 
 2π 3 30+α 
1
(C)  3  2π 1  2
= Vmp   − ( sin 300 cos 2α − sin60 cos 2α ) 
 4π  3 2 
1
 3  2π 3  2
V0( rms= Vmp   + cos 2α 
 4π  3 2
)


10. Discontinuous conduction

(α > 30° R load )

(D) The upper limit will be 180° , because, an

R-load thyristor cannot conduct beyond 180°
180
1
V0( avg )
= ∫ Vmp sin ωt d ( ωt )
2π 30 +α
3

162 Three Phase Rectifiers

 3Vmp mode operates at a firing angle of 45°. The
=
2π
( 1 + cos (30 + α )) power factor on the line side is
3
1 (A) cos 22.5° 1
 180 
2 π
 1  3  5π 1  2
V0( rms )
= ∫ V
2
ωt d ( ωt ) 
sin =2
Vmp  (B) 3− α +2 sin ( 60 + 2α ) 
 2π
 3 30 +α
mp 

( 22.5°)
 4π  6 π cos 2 

3
1
1 (C) cos 45°
2 π
 3 5π
 1   2
ωt d ( ω t ) 
in2 = Vmp  − α + sin ( 60 + 2α ) 
 6 cos ( 22.5° )
2

 4π  6 2 
 (D) π 45°
1−
11. For RLE load in continuous conduction, it 180°
behaves as RL load
Solution: (B)
3Vml
V0( avg )
= cos α α= 45° < 60°
2π
V0( av ) − E 2
I0( avg ) = Is( rms ) = I0
R 3

2 2 π α
Example 4.3: A threephase half-wave Is( rms ) = I cos cos
rectifier is operating from a three phase, π 0 6 2
star-connected supply of 220 Volts, 50 Hz 3
g = cos 22.5
at 75% of the maximum dc output voltage. π
Calculate the firing angle of SCR in degrees?
3
IPF =
g × FDF =cos2 22.5
Solution: π
Maximum value across at α = 0o
Example 4.5: A three phase half wave
3Vml 3Vml
=Vo cos α = cos ( 0 ) controlled rectifier circuit is shown in
2π 2π the figure. It is operated from 3 − φ star
Given that: connected supply transform with a line to line
3Vml 3Vml voltage of 440V rms, at 50Hz, the thyristors
cos=
α 0.75 × are triggered at a delay angle of α= 45° .
2π 2π
α = 41.40 o

So, for α > 30o

3Vmp   π 
=Vo  1 + cos  α +  
2π   6 

3Vmp   π  3Vmp
 1 + cos  α + =   0.75 × × 3
2π   6  2π

 π
1 + cos  α +  = 1.2990
 6 (A) 3256 W
(B) 2823 W
α =42.60o
(C) 3621 W
Example 4.4: A three phase half controlled (D) 3208 W
bridge converter in continuous conduction

Three Phase Rectifiers 163

 Solution: VRN= 30 + α − 150 + α (C) F
 orm factor increases and ripple
For α =45 frequency decreases
(D) Both decrease
VRN : 75 − 195
4. A three phase half-wave rectifier is
= Vmp sin ωt operating from a three
phase, star-connected supply of 220
At ωt > 180 VRN < 0 Volts, 50 Hz at a firing angle of α = 42.60o.
R load does not allow negative voltage The load resistance at the DC terminals
1 of the rectifier is 10 ohms.
 2
 1
180
(A) Find average and rms load currents
∫75 Vmp sin ωt d ( ωt )
V0( rms )
= 2 2 
 2π (B) Find rectifier efficiency
 3 
1
Three Phase Full-Wave Uncontrolled
 3  π 1  2 Rectifier
= Vmp   105 × + sin 150 
 4π  180 2 
= 0.70511 Vmp
2
 
(0.70511)  440 2 
2

 3 
P =
20
= 3208.488W

Fig. 4.8 3-Φ Full-Wave Uncontrolled Rectifier

Test Your Understanding 1
1. A 3 − φ half-wave controlled converter
is fed from 3 phased, 400V, 50Hz source
and is connected to load taking a
constant current of 36A. Thyristors have
a voltage drop of 1.4 V. The average power
dissipated in each thyristor is,
(A) 15.2 W (B) 16.8 W
(C) 17.6 W (D) 18.4 W
2. A three-phased half wave controlled
rectifier has a supply of 200V/phased.
Determine the average load voltage for a
firing angle of 60°, assuming a thyristor
volt drop of 1.5V and continuous load
current.
(A) 232.41 V (B) 201.07 V
(C) 115.45 V (D) None
3. By increasing the number of pulses in
rectification, the form factor and ripple
frequency
(A) Both increase
(B) Form factor decreases and ripple
frequency increases
1. The upper three diodes will make a
common cathode connection and the
lower three diodes will make a common
anode connection.
2. Common cathode and common anode
conduction are shifted by 60° .
3. Period of each diode in the common
cathode or common anode = 120° .
T
4. By using two converters shifted by , we
2
can double the pulse number.
5. Three pulse converters shifted by 60° ,
i.e., six pulse converters.
6. At point a, we obtain maximum phase
voltage due to the common cathode
connection.
7. At point b, we obtain minimum phase
voltage due to the common anode
connection.
8. Overall, V=
0
Va − Vb and hence, by the
difference of maximum and minimum
voltage, we get maximum line voltage
across the load.

164 Three Phase Rectifiers

9. We assume VAB as a reference for the 12. It is called a 6-pulse converter because
case of a full wave rectifiers. each pulse is of 60° duration.
VAB
= Vml sin ωt VAB
= Vml sin ωt

VBC
= Vml sin ( ωt − 120 ) The conduction angle of the diode will be
V
60° for line voltage AB .
VCA
= Vml sin ( ωt + 120 )
60° < ωt < 120°

120
1
V0( avg )
= ∫V ml
sin ωt d ( ωt )
π 60
3
3Vml  1  1   3Vml
=  −  −  =
π  2  2  π

1
 120 2
 1
∫60 Vml sin ωt d ( ωt )
= V0( rms ) 2 2 
13. π
 3 
Fig. 4.9 Waveform for the Source Voltage 1
 3  π 3 
2

= Vml   +  
 2π  3 2 


Three Phase Full-Wave Controlled Rectifier

Fig. 4.10 Waveform of the Output Voltage of a Full

Wave Uncontrolled Rectifier

0° − 60° : VCB 180° − 240° : VBC

10. Fig. 4.11 3-ϕ Full- Wave Controlled Rectifier
60° − 120° : VAB 240° − 300° : VBA

120° − 180° : VAC 300° − 360° : VCA

11. If, V0 = Vxy , it means ‘x’ phase conducts
from the top, i.e., common cathode and
‘y’ phase conducts from the bottom
i.e. common anode. Hence, the devices
conducting during different intervals are,
0° − 60° : VCB : D5 & D6
60° − 120° : VAB : D1 & D6
120° − 180° : VAC : D1 & D2
180° − 240° : VBC : D3 & D2
Fig. 4.12 Waveform for Supply Voltage
240° − 300° : VBA : D3 & D4
300° − 360° : VCA : D5 & D4

Three Phase Rectifiers 165

 1. In a full converter, diodes are replaced Current for α = 30°
by SCR so they cannot conduct until they
receive a firing pulse so each line voltage
gets shifted by an angle α as compared
to the uncontrolled rectifier.
2. Each SCR conducts for 120° , Each line
voltage exists for 60° .
3. Each phase conducts for 240° .
4. Conduction angle of different thyristors
Fig. 4.14 Waveform of Thyristor Voltage for α = 30°
VCB : α to 60 + α → T5 , T6
FDF = cos30°
VAB : 60 + α to 120 + α → T1 , T6 240 − α 240 − 30 210
=tC = =
VAC : 120 + α to 180 + α T1 , T2 ω ω ω
→
8. For α < 60°, circuit turn-off time
VBC : 180 + α to 240 + α T , T2
→ 3 240 − α
tC =
VBA : 240 + α to 300 + α → T3 , T4 ω

VCA : 300 + α to 360 + α → T5 , T4 9. Waveform of output voltage and source
current for α = 60°
4. Vxy implies that current enters from
phase x and leaves from phase y.
5. VAB , VAC : ISA = I0
VBA , VCA : ISA = − I0
6. Voltage across T1
When T1 is ON
vT 1 = 0
60 + α − 180 + α
When T3 is ON, the voltage at the common
cathode terminal is VB
vT 1 = VAB 180 + α − 300 + α
When T5 is ON, the voltage at the common
cathode terminal is VC
vT 1 = VAC 300 + α − 420 + α or 60 + α
Fig. 4.15 Waveform of Output Voltage and Source
7. Waveform of output voltage and source Current for α = 60°
current for α = 30°

Fig. 4.13 Waveform of Output Voltage and Source

166 Three Phase Rectifiers

 Fig. 4.16 Waveform of Thyristor Voltage for α = 60° 180 − α
tC =
FDF = cos60° ω
240 − α 240 − 60 180 13. For α = 90°, Resistive load
= tC = =
ω ω ω The negative part of the waveform is
10. Boundary between continuous and clipped for α = 90° (Resistive load)
discontinuous conduction
VAB = Vml sinwt
60+α < wt < 120+a
If, 120+α >180° , VAB < 0
α > 60°
Rload does not allow negative voltage
∴ α = 60° is boundary between continuous
and discontinuous conduction.
11. Waveform of output voltage and source
current for α = 90°(RL load) Fig. 4.19 Waveform of Output Voltage for α =
90°(Resistive Load)

Parameters of full-wave controlled rectifier:

1. Continuous conduction α < 60° R-load
and ∀ α (RL load)
VAB Vml   sin ωt
=

60 + α < ωt < 120 + α
1 120+α 3Vml
V0
= ∫ 60+α Vml sin ωtd (ω
= t) [cos(50 + α ) cos(1
π/3 π
1 120+α 3Vml
V0
= ∫ 60+α Vml sin ωtd (ω
= t) [cos(50 + α ) cos(120 + α )]
π/3 π
3Vml
= cos α
π
1
Fig. 4.17 Waveform of Output Voltage and Source  1 120+α 2 2
Current for α = 90°(RL load) 2. Vorm=  ∫ 60+α Vml sin2 ωt d (ω t)
π / 3
s

1/2
 3 π 1 
Vorms Vml   − (sin(240 + 2α ) − sin(120 + 2α ))
=
2
 π 3 2 
1/2
 3  π 3 
Vorms = Vml   + cos 2α 
 2π  3 2 

3. Discontinuous conduction α > 60°
1 180
V0 = ∫ V sin ωt d (ω t)
Fig. 4.18 Waveform of Thyristor Voltage for α = 90°(RL π / 3 60+α ml
load)

12. For α > 60°, circuit Turn-off time

Three Phase Rectifiers 167

 3Vml
= [1 + cos(60 + α )] 10. I ( rms  ) = 2 2 I cos π
π s1
π 0 6
Is 1( rms ) 6
 1 180 
1/2
11. =g = = 0.78
Is( rms ) π
4. Vorms=  ∫ 60+α Vml sin ωt d (ω t)
π / 3  1/2
 3  2π  1
1 12. THD
= 1 31.09%
−=
= Vml   − α + sin(120 + 2α )   g2
 2π  3 2 
13. IPF =×
g FDF = g cos α
5. Fourier series of supply of current
14. Each SCR conducts for 120°
 120  I0
IT ( avg ) I0=
=  
 360  3

120 I0
( rms ) I0=
IT=
360
3
15. circuit turn-off time
Fig. 4.20 Waveform of Supply Current  240 − α
 , α ≤ 60
tC =  ω
If, this waveform is left-shifted by (30+α) it
becomes a quasi-square wave  180 − α , α > 60
 ω

Example 4.6: A 3-phased converter feeds

an RLE load, the source has a definite
inductance causing overlap and the thyristors
are ideal. It has an overlap angle μ of 20°
at the minimum firing angle α. The current
remains constant in the complete range of
firing angles. The range of firing angles of the
Fig. 4.21 Shifted Waveform of Supply Current converter would be
6. Fourier series of a quasi–square wave (A) 0° < α < 180°
∞
4I0 nπ
= ∑ cos sin nω0t (B) 20° < α < 180°
n = 1,3,5 nπ 6

(C) 0° < α < 160°
Right shift by (30+α) to obtain ISA
(D) 20° < α < 160°
∞
4I0 nπ  nπ 
ISA = ∑ cos sin  nω0t − − nα 
n = 1,3,5 nπ 6  6  Solution: (C)

2π − ( π + α + µ )
4I0 π  π  =tc ≥ tq
7. iS 1 cos sin  ω0t − − α  ω
π 6  6 
α ≤ π − µ − ωtq
 π
= VAN Vmp sin  ωt − 
 6 If, tq is very small

8. FDF = cosa α ≤ π − µ ≤ 160°

9. = 120 2
Is( rms ) I0= I0 Example 4.7: A 3 − φ full-wave phase
180 3 controlled rectifier is fed from a 3-phased,
400V, 50Hz source and is connected to

168 Three Phase Rectifiers

load taking a constant current of 30A. If a = 13.33 m sec
freewheeling diode is connected across the
load, then, the RMS value of the freewheeling Test Your Understanding 2
diode current for a firing angle of 60° is 1. For a 3 phase full converter, find the
(A) 0A (B) 15A circuit turn-off time for a three-phased
30 supply voltage of 230V, 50 Hz and α = 30o.
(C) 7.5A (D) A
3 2. A three-phased full converter is supplying
a purely resistive load at 300F DC for 0o
Solution: (A) firing angle. The output voltage for 90o
α ≤ 60° , V0 never becomes negative firing angle would be ___V.
Freewheel diode does not come into 3. In a 3-phased bridge rectifier fed from
the star-connected secondary of a
conduction
transformer, let the voltage to the neutral
IFD (rms ) = 0 A of the A-phased (phased sequence A, B,
C) be Vm sin ωt . At the instance, when the
Example 4.8: A 3 phase full converter delivers voltage of the A-phased is maximum, the
power to a load R = 50Ω. The source voltage output voltage at the rectifier terminals
is 400V, 50Hz. For a firing delay of 30°. The will be
power delivered to load R is ______(Watt).
(A) 1.5 Vm (B) 3 Vm
Solution:
VAB : 60 + α to 120 + α Vm
(C) 2 (D) Vm
1
 150o  2
Three-Phase Semi-Converter
 1
∫o V sin ωt d ( ωt )
= V0( rms ) 2 2 
π ml

 3 90

1
 3 π 1 2
(
= Vml   − sin 300o − sin 180o   )
 2π  3 2 

= 0.841 × Vml = 0.841 × 400 2 = 475.56V

475.562 Fig. 4.22 Three-Phase Semi-Converter
= P = 4523.19 W
50 1. Semi-converter is a 6-pulse converter.
2. In semi-converter, operation of SCR
Example 4.10: For a 3-phase full converter, find depends on firing angle, but, the operation
the circuit turn-off time for a three-phased of diode does not.
supply voltage of 230V, 50 Hz and α = 0o. 3. Waveform of output voltage for α = 0°
Solution:
In a 3-phased fully controlled for firing delay
of 0o each SCR is reverse biased for 240o i.e.
4π
rad .
3
4π
ωtc =
3
4π
tc =
3 × 2π × 50

Three Phase Rectifiers 169

 Fig. 4.23 Waveform of Output Voltage for α = 0° Fig. 4.24 Waveform of Output Voltage for α = 30°

4. In a full converter, the interval for various 7. Waveform of output voltage for α = 60°
line voltages are,
VCB : 0° to 60° (T5 , D6 )
VAB : 60° to 120° (T1 , D6 )
VAC : 120° to 180° (T1 , D2 )

VBC : 180° to 240° (T3 , D2 )
VBA : 240° to 300° (T3 , D4 )
VCA : 300° to 360° (T5 , D4 )

5. Conduction interval of Thyristor and diode
T1 : 60° + α to 180° + α

T3 : 180° + α to 300° + α

T5 : 300° + α to 420° + α   or 60° + α  

D6 : 0° to 120°
D2 : 120° to 240°
D4 : 240° to 360°

6. Waveform of output voltage for α = 30°

Fig. 4.25 Waveform of Output Voltage for α = 60°

8. Waveform of output voltage for α = 90°

Fig. 4.26 Waveform of Output Voltage for α = 90°

170 Three Phase Rectifiers

 α (A) Firing angle and load resistance
FDF cos
= = cos 45°
2 (B) Firing angle and supply frequency
9. Fundamental distortion factor for (C) Firing angle and load inductance
3-phased semi converter (D) Load resistance and load inductance
α Solution:
FDF = cos
2
For a 3-φ semi-converter ripple frequency
depend on firing angle and supply frequency,
whereas for a 3-φ full converter ripple
frequency depends only on supply frequency.

Example 4.12: A 3-phase semi-converter

feeds power to a resistive load of 10 Ω for
a firing angle delay of 30o, the load takes 6
kW. Find the magnitude of per phase input
supply voltage.

Solution:
Fig. 4.27 Waveform of Phase-A Current
Given,
10.
= VAB Vml   sin ωt Vor2
= 6000
VBC Vml   sin(ω t − 120)
= R

VCB Vml   sin(ω t + 60)
= Vor2 6000 × 10 
= ...(1)

1 120 For a 3-phase semi-converter α = 30o
V0 (avg=
) ∫ α−60 Vml sin (ωt + 60)d (ωt )
2π 1 2 π +α
3
2π
3 (Vnl sin ωt ) d ( ωt )
2
=Vor
3 π ∫
3Vml
=  1 + cos α  3
+α

2π
For α = 30o
∞
4f0 π α  π α
i = ∑ cos cos sin  ω0t − −  2Vs2 × 3  2π 3 
11. s n= 1,3,5 nπ 6 2  6 2 =Vor2
4π  3
 +
2
( 1 + cos α ) 

4 π α  π α
=12. is 1 π I0 cos 6 cos 2 sin  ω 0t − 6 − 2  2Vs2 × 3  2π 3 
  =
4π  3
 (+
2
)
1 + cos 60o  = 60000
 π 
=VAN Vmp sin  ω 0t − 
 6 Vs2 × 1.620 = 6000

2 2 π α Vs = 192.45 Volt
13. IS 1( rms ) = cos cos I0
π 6 2 Vph = 111.11 V
 2
 I0 α ≤ 60
 3 Example 4.13: A 3 phase semi-converter
14. IS ( rms ) = 
 π−α feeds power to a resistive load of 8Ω for a
 I0 α > 60 firing angle delay of 90°. Load takes 5 kW
π
to find the magnitude of the input supply
Example 4.11: On what factors does the voltage (line voltage) in case the load current
ripple frequency of a 3-phase semi-converter is made ripple-free by connecting an inductor
depend? in series with the load.

Three Phase Rectifiers 171

 Points To Remember

Parameter 1-φ fc 1-φ sc 3-φ fc 3-φ sc

2Vm Vm 3Vml 3Vml
V0(av)
π
cos α
π
( 1 + cos α ) π
cos α
π
( 1 + cos α )
2
I0 , α < 60
π−α 2 3
Is(rms) I0 I0 I0
π 3 π−α
I0 , α > 60
π

2 2 2 2 α 2 2 π 2 2 π α
Is1(rms) I cos I0 cos I0 cos cos I0
π 0 π 2 π 6 π 6 2

α α
FDF cos α cos cos α cos
2 2

IS 1 IS 1 IS 1 IS 1
g
IS IS IS IS

1 1
−1 1 −1 1
THD g2 −1 g2 −1
g2 g2
48.34% 31.09%

IPF g × FDF g × FDF g × FDF g × FDF

Table 4.1 Comparison between different types of rectifiers

Solution: Quadrant of Operation

For constant load current Ior = Io 1. Full converter V0 α cos α
V  3V  1 0 < α < 90, V0 > 0
= o  ml ( 1 + cos α )  ×
Io =

R  2π  R 90 < α < 180, V0 < 0

Ior2 × R =
5000
2
 3Vml  1
 ( 1 + cos α )  × =5000
 2π  8
3Vml
2π
( 1 + cos α ) =200
Vs = 296.192 Volt

13. Circuit turn-off time for three phase Fig. 4.28 Quadrant Operation of a Full Converter
rectifier
2. Semi converter, V0 ∝ (1+cosα)
 240 − α
 α ≤ 60 0 < α < 180, V0 > 0
ω
t =
14. C  180 − α
 α > 60
 ω

172 Three Phase Rectifiers

 maximum current through the battery will be
(A) 0A (B) 40 A
(C) 80 A (D) 94 A

Solution: (B)
V0 =-E+I0 R

V0 + E
Fig. 4.29 Quadrant Operation of Semi-Converter I0 =
R
Line Commutated Inverter Line commutated inv.
1. When α > 90 in a full converter V0 < 0, ∴ P V0 ≤ 0
< 0, so, power flows from DC to AC.
0 + 400
2. But, for this to happen, there must be a P= (max) = 40 A
battery on the DC side.
0
10

Example 4.15: A single phase fully controlled

converter bridge is used for electrical braking
of a separately excited DC motor. The DC
motor load is represented by an equivalent
circuit as shown in the figure. Assume that
the load inductance is sufficient to ensure a
continuous and ripple-free load current. The
Fig. 4.30 Line Commutated Inverter
source voltage to the bridge is 230 V, 50 Hz.
V0 =−E + I0R < 0 Then, the firing angle of the bridge for a load
3.
current of Io = 10 A will be
2Vm
= V0 cos α (1 − φ) (A) 44° (B) 51°
4. π
(C) 129° (D) 136°
3Vml
= V0 cos α (3 − φ)
5. π
V < 0, α > 90
6. 0
7. SCR gets auto commutated by AC
line voltage and we don’t need any
commutation circuit.

Example 4.14: A solar energy installation

utilizes a three phase bridge converter to
feed energy into a power system through a
transformer of 400 / 400 V, as shown below:
Solution:
The energy is collected in a bank of 400 V
battery and is connected to a converter V0 =−E + I0R =−150 + 10 × 2 =−130
through a large filter choke of resistance 10 Ω
2Vm
−130
= cos α
π

−1  −130 × π 
=α cos
=   129
°

 2 × 230 2 

Three Phase Rectifiers 173

 Effect of Source Inductance 5. During α < ωt < α + µ , both Thyristor and
Freewheel diode conduct.
One pulse converter:
VL Vm sin ωt
=

Lsdi
= Vm sin ωt
dt
I0
Vm α+µ

∫ di
= ∫ sin ωtd ( ωt )
ωLs
0 α

Vm
= I0 cos α − cos ( α + µ ) 
ωLs  

6. Without source inductance, the graph of
Fig. 4.31 One Pulse Converter V0 should start from α.
1. Source inductance does not allow source 1
180
Vm
V0(avg= ∫ Vm sin ωtd ( ωt=
) ( 1 + cos α )
current to change instantly. ) 2π α+µ 2π

∆V0 = V0 ( ω / 0Ls ) − V0 (with L s )

Vm ωLs I0
= cos α − cos ( α +=
µ )  − fLs I0
2π  2π
Vm ωLs I0
= cos α − cos ( α +=
µ )  − fLs I0
2π  2π

∴ ∆V0 = fLs I0

7. Overlap angle: The angle for which two
complementary devices overlap is called
the overlap angle.
I0
Fig. 4.32 waveform of the Effect of Source Inductance as , f,
on
Ls increases, then ∆V0 increases and hence µ increa
Output Voltage and Source Current
μ = overlap angleLs increases, then ∆V0 increases

and hence µ increases
2. Assuming a highly inductive load.
8. if Vm increase , µ decrease , As more
T : ON IS = I0 voltage makes inductor charging and

discharging faster.
FD : ON Is = 0
Two pulse converter:
IT + IFD =
I0

3. Due to source inductance, the conduction
of the freewheeling diode increases.
γ= 180 + µ + α
FD

4. The area of V0 from α < ωt < α + µ

180
1
V0(avg )
= ∫ Vm sin ωtd ( ωt )
2π α+µ
Fig. 4.33 Two Pulse Converter
V
(
= m 1 + cos ( α + µ )
2π
)
174 Three Phase Rectifiers
1. Waveform of a 2 pulse converter without 5. Shape of source current
the effect of source inductance. a) Sinusoidal when the load is resistive
b) Square wave when the load is current
L
stiff and s is not considered.
L
c) Trapezoidal when s is considered
and current stiff.
6. α < ωt < α + µ
All 4 devices conduct so source, as well
as load, are short-circuited.
VLS Vm sin ωt
7. =
di
L
= Vm sin ωt

s
dt
Vm
di
= sin ωtd ( ωt )
ωLs

I0
Vm α⊥µ

∫ di
= ∫ sin ωtd ( ωt )
− I0
ωLs
Fig. 4.34 Waveforms of a 2 Pulse Converter without
α

the Effect of Source Inductance Vm

= 2I0 cos α − cos ( α + µ ) 
2. During overlap angle, all 4 devices ωLs  

conduct.
Vm
V0 = 0 = I0 cos α − cos ( α + µ ) 
2ωLs  

8. Without source inductance
2Vm
= V0 cos α
π
9. With source inductance
1
π+α
= V0 ∫ Vm sin ωtd ( ωt )
π α+µ

Vm
= V0 cos ( α + µ ) + cos α 
π  
10. Change in
= V0 , ∆V0 V0 (without L s ) − V0 (with Ls )

Vm 2ωLs I0
∆V0
= cos α − cos ( α=
+ µ ) 
π  π

Fig. 4.35 Waveforms of a 2 Pulse Converter with the
Effect of Source Inductance = 4fLs I0

3. =
Is IT 1T 2 − IT 3T 4 2Vm
∴ V0
= cos α − 4fLs I0
µ π
4. Is and Is 1 have zero crossing at α +
2 Vm
 µ = I0 cos α − cos ( α + µ ) 
FDF
= cos  α +  2ωLs  
2


Three Phase Rectifiers 175

 11. Inductive voltage regulation 2 × 2 × 220
The per-unit change in average output = 175 cos α
π
voltage due to source inductance wrt V0
at α =0 is called is inductive VR. α =29.92o
∆V0 4fLs I0 4fLs I0 So, put α = 27.92o, Ls = 5 mH, µ = 6 in equation
=VR = = (1)
V0 2Vm 2Vm
cos α
π π 2 × 220
α=0 = Io cos 27.92 − cos ( 27.9 + 6 ) 
100π × 2 × 5 × 10−3  
Example 4.16: An uncontrolled diode bridge= Io 99.034 cos 27.92 − cos ( 27.9 + 6 ) 
rectifier supplied from a 220V, 50 Hz, 1 phas Io = 5.326 A
AC source. The load draws a constant current
I0 = 14A. Find the conduction angle of the Effect of source inductance on the
diode D2 in degrees. performance of the converter:
Solution: 1. It reduces average output voltage.
For a 1-φ full-wave controlled converter: 2. It limits the maximum range of the firing
angle.
Vm
=I0 cos α − cos ( α + µ )  3. Fundamental displacement factor
2ωLs  
devreases.
For diode bridge rectifier α = 0o 4. Distortion factor increases, because,
Trapezoidal waveform is closer to actual
220 2 sinusoid (g increases).
14 cos 0 − cos µ 
2 × 100π × 0.01  5. Input power factor slightly increases.
µ =44.17o

( IPF= g × FDF )
Conduction angle of diode
2π − ( π + α + µ )
= 180o + µ = 224.167o tc = [For T1 ]
ω
Example 4.17: A single-phase full converter π−α−µ
= ≥ tq (Device turn-off time)
fed from 220V, 50 Hz supply gives an output ω
voltage of 175V at no load. The overlap angle
is found to be 6o and the source inductance is
α ≤ π − ωtq − µ( )
5 mH. Compute the constant output current αmax = π − µ − ωtq
in ampere?

Solution: Six pulse converter with source inductance:

During overlap α < ωt < α + µ all 4 SCR conducts.
VLs = VB
I
dis 0
Vm α+µ
LB = Vm sin ωt + ∫ = sin ωt d ( ωt )
ωLs ∫α
dis
dit − I0

Vm
=I0 cos α − cos ( α + µ )  … (1)
ωLs  

Given that on load V0 = 175V Fig. 4.36 Six Pulse Converter with Source Inductance
∴ at no load µ = 0, thus
1. VCB : α − 60 − α (T T )
5 6
2Vm
=V0 cos α
π

176 Three Phase Rectifiers

 VAB : 60 + α − 120 + α (TT
1 6)
dIA =
VAC
dt

2Ls
At 60 + α , T5 turns OFF and T1 turns ON
I0
C- phase turns Off and A-phase turns ON Vml 60 +α+µ

2. Due to Ls , no phase can turn On or turn

= ∫0 dIA 2ωL 60∫+α sin ( ωt − 60) d ( ωt )
s

OFF instantly.
Vml
3. During 60 + α < ωt < 60 + α + µ (overlap) = I0 cos α − cos ( α + µ ) 
2ωLs  
T , T T
5 1 and 6 conduct
=V Vml sin ωt
6. AB
VCA Vml sin ( ωt + 120 )
=

VAC Vml sin ( ωt − 60 )
=

V+ = VAN − Ls
dIA V
= VAN − AC = VAN −
(VAN − VCN )
dt 2 2

V+ = VAN − Ls
dIA V
= VAN − AC = VAN −
(VAN − VCN )
dt 2 2
VAN + VCN
V+ =
2
Fig. 4.37 Equivalent Circuit with Source Inductance
7. When 2 phases overlap, the voltage of
Highly inductive load I0 = constant the corresponding output terminal is the
IA + IC =I0 average of 2 voltages.

V− = VBN
dIA dIC
+ 0
= VAN + VCN 3
dt dt ∴ V0
= − VBN = − VBN
2 2
dI0
LS =0 3
dt 60 + α < ωt < 60 + α + µ : V0 = − VBN
2
4. During overlap, gradually A-phase turns
60 + α + µ < ωt < 120 + α : V0 =VAB
ON, so, IA gradually increases and hence

IC gradually decreases. VAN Vmp sin ( ωt − 30 )

=

dIA dI
5. By KVL, VAN − Ls 0
+ Ls C − VCN = VBN Vmp sin ( ωt − 150 )
=
dt dt
−VBN Vmp sin ( ωt + 30 )
=
 dI −dIc 
VAC Ls  A −
= 
dt  1  
60 +α+µ 120 +
dt 3
8. V0 (=
avg )  ∫ − VBNd ( ωt ) + ∫ VABd ( ωt ) 

π  60+α 2 60 +α+µ 
 2dIA  dIC dIA 3
VAC = ls    = −
 dt  dt dt 3
60 +α+µ
3
120 +
=  ∫ V sin ( ωt + 30 ) d ( ωt ) + ∫ Vml sin ωt − d (
π  2 mp
 2dIA  dIC dI 60 +α 60 +α+µ
= ls    = − A
 dt  dt dt
3
60 +α+µ
3
120 + 
=  ∫ Vmp sin ( ωt + 30 ) d ( ωt ) + ∫ Vml sin ωt − d ( ωt ) 
π  60+α 2 60 +α+µ 

Three Phase Rectifiers 177

 3 3 3V 
 Vmp cos ( 90 − α ) − cos ( 90 + α + µ )  + Vml
= 420( 60 + ml
cos
 µ ) α− cos
α +cos − 6fL( s120
I0 + α )  

π 2 π 

os ( 90 + α + µ )  + Vml cos ( 60 + α + µ ) − cos ( 120 +=


α )   420
(
3 × 230 3 × 2 ) cos α − 6 × 50 × 4 × 10 −3
× 20
 π

=
3 3
 Vmp= (sin ( α + µ ) − sin
420α) + V
(
3 × 230

ml 
1
cos
3× 2
( α +
)
µ ) −
3
sin ( α + µ ) +
1 −3
cos
cos α − 6 × 50 × 4 × 10 × 20 ( α ) +
3
sin α

 
π 2 2 π 2 2 2 
   
= α 34.38°
1 3 1 3 
)
µ ) − sin α + Vml  cos ( α + µ ) −
2 2
sin ( α + µ ) + cos ( α ) +
2
sin α  
2 Example  4.19: A 3-phase full converter fed
 
from a 3-phase 400V source has an output
3 1 3  voltage of 450V DC for a firing angle of 30o.
− sin ( α + µ ) + cos ( α ) + sin α  
2 2 2  1. Calculate the voltage drop due to overlap.

2. Calculate overlap angle in degree.
3Vml
= V0 cos α + cos ( α + µ ) 
2 π   Solution:

1. For 3-φ FC α < 60o
9. Without Ls 3Vml
3Vml = ∆ V cos α − Vo
= V0 cos α π
π
3 × 400 2
3Vml = ∆V cos 30o − 450
= ∆V0 cos α − cos ( α + µ )  π
2π  
∆V = 17.82V
3 ( 2ωLs I0 )
3VmL

= ∆V0 = 6fls I0
2 π = 2. ∆V
2π
( cos α − cos ( α + µ ) )
3Vml 3 × 400
= V0 cos α − 6fLs I0 = 17.82 cos 30o − cos ( 30 + µ ) 
π 2π  

Example 4.18: A 3 − φ full converter bridge is µ =6.9o

connected to a supply voltage of 230V per
phase and a frequency of 50 Hz. The source Example 4.20: A 3-φ, 6 pulse fully controlled
inductance is 4mH. The load current on converter is connected to a supply of 400V,
π
the DC side is constant at 20A. If, the load 50 Hz and operates at a firing angle of .
consists of a DC source of internal emf 400V 4
The load current is maintained constant at
with an internal resistance of 1Ω, then, firing
10A and the overlap angle is 7°. Find the load
angle delay is
voltage?
(A) 34.38° (B) 36.12°
(C) 39.26° (D) 40.12° Solution:
3Vml
Solution: (A) =V0 cos α + cos ( α + µ ) 
2π  
V0= E + Ior
3 × 400 × 2
= 400 + 20 × 1 =V0 cos 45 o + cos 457.7o 
2π  
= 420V
V0 = 357.27V

178 Three Phase Rectifiers

 Example 4.21: A 3 − φ , 50 Hz fully controlled
bridge converter is fed with 500 sin ωt . The
AC source has an inductance of 20mH/
phase. If, the thyristor firing angle is 30° and
the overlap angle is 10°, then the constant
DC load current is ______ A.
Solution:
Vml
=I0 cos α − cos ( α + µ ) 
2ωLs   10 Ω.
500
I0 cos 30 − cos 40
2 × 100π × 0.02 
= 3.978 A
Test Your Understanding 3
1. A 3 − φ full bridge converter is connected
to a supply of voltage 230V per phase
and a frequency of 50 Hz. The source
inductance is 4 mH. The load current on
the DC side is constant at 20A. If, the
load consists of a DC source of internal
emf 400V with an internal resistance of
1Ω, then, the overlap angle is
(A) 7.12° (B) 4.17°
(C) 8.22° (D) 10.10°
2. A 1-φ full converter is connected to an AC
supply of 220V, 50 Hz, it operates with a
firing angle α = 45 . The total load current
o period of
is maintained constant at 15A and the
load voltage is 120V. Calculate
a) Source inductance,
b) Angle of overlap,
c) Load resistance.
3. The effect of source inductance on the
performance of single phase and three
phase full converters is
(A) Reduces the ripples in the load
current.
(B) Makes discontinuous current
continuous.
(C) Reduces the output voltage.
(D) Increases the load voltage.
4. A 1-φ full converter is connected toAC
supply of 330 sinωt Volt and 50 Hz. It =
π
operates with a firing angle of α = rad ;
4
the total load current is maintained
Three Phase Rectifiers
constant at 5A and the load voltage is
140V. Calculate the source inductance?
5. A solar energy installation utilizes a three
phased bridge converter to feed energy
to a power system through a transformer
of 400 / 400 V, as shown below:
The energy is collected in a bank of 400
V battery and is connected to a converter
through a large filter choke of resistance
The kVA rating of the input transformer is
(A) 53.2 kV (B) 46.0 kVA
(C) 22.6 kVA (D) 19.6 kVA
6. A solar cell of 350V is feeding power to
anACsupply of 440 V, 50 Hz through a three
phase fully controlled bridge converter. A
large inductance is connected in the DC
circuit to maintain the DC current at 20A.
if, the solar cell resistance is 0.5 Ω, then,
each thyristor will be reverse biased for a
(A) 125° (B) 120°
(C) 60° (D) 55°
Points To Remember
y 1 ulse converter
Vm
V0
=
π
( 1 + cos α ) − fLsI0
Vm
= I0 cos α − cos ( α + µ ) 
ωls  
y 2 pulse converter
2Vm
= V0 cos α − 4fLs I0
π
2Vm
I0 cos α − cos ( α + µ ) 
2ωLs  
y 6 pulse converter
179
 3Vm 2. Types of dual converter on the basis of
= V0 cos α − 6fLs I0 circulating current -
π
a) Non-circulating current type &
Vm
= I0 cos α − cos ( α + µ )  b) Circulating current type.
2ωLs  
3. In a non-circulating current type, we make
∆V0 =
nfLs I0 sure that only one converter operates at

a time.
n = no. of SCR
4. If, there is any current exchanged between
X s = ωLs 2 converters, it is said to be circulating

current.
Dual Converter
Dual converters without circulating current:
Single phase dual converter:
1. In this type, only one converter is in
operation at a time and it, alone, carries
the entire load current. The other
converter is blocked from conduction.
2. If converter 1 supplies positive current,
converter 2 Supplies negative current.

Fig. 4.38 Single Phase Dual Converter

1. Two single phase full-wave converters

are connected back-to-back, antiparallel,
hence, the name dual converter.
2. It is a four-quadrant drive and permits
four modes of operation: forward
powering, forward braking (regeneration),
reverse powering, and reverse braking. Fig. 4.40 Quadrant Operation of a Dual Converter

Three phase dual converter: 3. Advantage:

1. Two three phase full-wave converters are There is no circulating current between
connected back-to-back. the converter and hence, additional power
losses due to the circulating current will
be absent.
4. Drawback:
It gives a slow-speed response and
the reversal of armature current is not
smooth when we change the mode of
operation.

Fig. 4.39 Three Phase Dual Converter

180 Three Phase Rectifiers

5. Firing angle of 2 converters
Fig. 4.41 Schematic Diagram of a Dual Converter
For the same average output voltage V01
= – V02
2Vm 2V
cos α 1 =− m cos α 2
π π
cos α 1 =− cos α 2
a1 = 180 – a2
Hence, a1 + a2 = 180°
6. By this control of firing angle, both
converters produce exactly the same
average o/p voltage.
Dual converter with circulating current:
1. In this mode of a dual converter, a reactor
is inserted in between converters 1 and 2.
2. This reactor limits the magnitude of the
circulating current to a reasonable value.
Fig. 4.42 Single Phase Dual Converter with Circulating
Current
Fig. 4.43 Three Phase Dual Converter with Circulating
Current
Three Phase Rectifiers
3. V01 & V02 will contain DC components &
other harmonics.
4. For the DC component; L = short which
can lead to a large circulating current.
5. ∴ For the DC component, both voltages
must be equal.
V01 = – V02 or a1 + a2 = 180°
6. By this method, the average output
voltage of both the converters is equal
but, instantaneous value will differ.
7. Hence, circulating current exists due to
harmonics.
8. Assume a1 = 60° & hence a2 = 180 – 60
= 120°
VCB: 60 – 120 (a1 to π/3 + a1)
120 – 180
VAB: 120 – 180 (π/3 + a1 to 2π/3 + a1)
180 – 240
VAC: 180 – 240 240 – 300
VBC: 240 – 300 300 – 360
VBA: 300 – 360 360 – 420 (0 – 60)
VCA: 0 – 60 60 – 120
9. Based on the circuit diagram, we are
considering the negative of V02.
10. Output voltage can be taken as the
average of two voltages.
V01 + V02
V0 =
2
0 – 60°, V01 = VCA = Vml sin(wt + 120)
V01 = – VBE = Vml sin wt
At wt = 0 V01 = 0.866 Vml
V02 = 0 V0 = 0.433 Vml
at wt = 60 V01 = 0
V02 = 0.866 V0 = 0.433 Vml
at wt = 30 V01 = 0.5Vml
V02 = 0.5 Vml V0 = 0.5 Vml
181
 11. Voltage across reactor = V01 – V02 = Vml sin wt + Vml sin (wt – 60)

= 3 V sin (wt + 30)

ml
Ic
3Vml ωt
= ∫0 dic ωL ∫ sin(ωt + 30)d (ω t)
n/3

3Vml
= Ic cos ( 90 + α 1 ) − cos(ω t + 30)
ωL  

3Vml
=  − sin α 1 − cos(ω t + 30)
ωL 
For Icp = cos (wt + 30) = –1
3Vml
Icp
=
ωL
( 1 − sin α 1 )

14. Advantage:
Fig. 4.44 Waveform for the Output Voltage of It has a high-speed response and the
Converter-1 and Converter-2 reversal of armature current is smooth
during the switching operation of the
converter.
15. Disadvantages:
a) A reactor is required to limit the
circulating current. The size and cost
of this reactor may be quite significant
at high power levels.
b) Circulating current gives rise to
more losses in the converter, hence,
efficiency and power factor is low.
c) As the converters have to handle the
load as well as circulating currents,
Fig. 4.45 Waveform for Reactor Voltage, Circulating the thyristors for the two converters
Current and Output Current are rated for higher currents.
12. From waveform, it is observed that for α Example 4.22: A 3-ϕ dual converter, operating
= 60°, reactor charges upto 30° & then in circulating current mode has the following
discharges. So, peak circulating current is data -
observed at wt = 30°.
Vph = 230V, f = 50Hz, a1 = 60°, L =
13. From,
15mH
π 2π Find peak circulating current.
+ α 1 to + α1
3 3
Solution:
V01 = VAB
V02 = – VCB = VBC 3Vml
Ic
=
ωL
( 1 − sin α ) 1
dic
L
= V01 − V02 =
dt 3 × (230 3) 2
Vml sin wt – Vml sin (wt – 120) = (1=
− sin60) 27.742 A
100π × 0.015

182 Three Phase Rectifiers

 Chapter Summary

Parameter 1-φ FC 1-φ SC 3-φ FC 3-φ SC

2Vm Vm 3Vml 3Vml

V0(av)
π
cos α
π
( 1 + cos α ) π
cos α
π
( 1 + cos α )

2
I0 , α < 60
π−α 2 3
Is(rms) I0 I0 I0
π 3 π−α
I0 , α > 60
π

2 2 2 2 α 2 2 π 2 2 π α
Is1(rms) I cos I0 cos I0 cos cos I0
π 0 π 2 π 6 π 6 2

α α
FDF cos α cos cos α cos
2 2

IS 1 IS 1 IS 1 IS 1
g
IS IS IS IS

1 1
−1 1 −1 1
THD g2 −1 g2 −1
g2 g2
48.34% 31.09%

IPF g × FDF g × FDF g × FDF g × FDF

Table 4.2 Comparison between Different Types of Rectifiers

7. Circuit turn-off time for three-phase 2Vm

rectifier = I0 cos α − cos ( α + µ ) 
2ωLs  

 240 − α
 α ≤ 60 11. 6-pulse converter
tC =  ω
 180 − α α > 60 3Vm
=V0 cos α − 6fLs I0
8.  ω π
9. 1-pulse converter Vm
= I0 cos α − cos ( α + µ ) 
Vm 2ωLs  
V0
=
π
( 1 + cos α ) − fL Is 0

∆V = nfLs I0
0
Vm
= I0 cos α − cos ( α + µ )  n = Number of SCR
ωls  
X s = ωLs

10. 2-pulse converter
3Vml
=V0
2Vm
cos α − 4fLs I0 = Icp
ωL
( 1 − sin α )
1
π 12.

Three Phase Rectifiers 183

 Exercise
Level 1 is 8 Ω and an inductor makes the load
current almost ripple-free. THD is _____.
1. Which of the following is the waveform
(A) 0.25 (B) 0.31
of source current in case of 3 − φ semi (C) 0.54 (D) 0.64
α 100° .
converter for =
5. In a 3-phase bridge rectifier fed from
the star-connected secondary of a
(A) transformer, let the voltage to the neutral
of the A phase (phase sequence is A, B, C)
be Vm sin ωt . At the instance, when the
voltage of the A phase is maximum, the
(B) output voltage at the rectifier terminals
will be
(A) 1.5Vm
(C) (B) 3Vm
Vm
(C)
2
(D) (D) Vm
6. Match List-Iwith List-II and selectthe correct
2. A three-phase half-wave controlled answer by using the codes given below.
rectifier circuit is shown in the figure. It ( V0 =maximum average output voltage)
is operated from 3 − φ , a star-connected
List-I (rectifier circuit)
supply transformer with a line-to-
line voltage of 440V rms, at 50Hz. The
P. single phase fullwave centre tapped circuit
thyristors are triggered at a delay angle
of α= 45° . Q. single phase semi-converter
R. three phase half-wave converter
S. three phase full-converter

V0
List-II (PIV of SCR in terms of )
π
I. PIV of SCR = V
2 0
π
II. PIV of SCR = V
3 0
III. PIV of SCR = πV0
(A) 3256 W (B) 2823 W IV. PIV of SCR = 2π V
(C) 3621 (D) 3208 W 3 0
3. For the given circuit in Q2, calculate the 7. A 3 − φ full converter feed power to a
average value of load current for α= 30° resistive load of 10Ω. For a firing angle
of 450, the load takes 1kW. Find the
[Give answer round off two decimal places]
amplitude of the line voltage
4. A 3 phase diode bridge rectifier charges
a 240 V battery. The input voltage to the (A) 100 2V
rectifier is 3 phase, 230 V, 50 Hz. Current (B) 100 3V
limiting resistance in series with battery

184 Three Phase Rectifiers

 (C) 200V
(D) 200 3V
8. A 3 phase fully controlled bridge converter
is fed from a 3 phase 400V, 50Hz mains.
For an angle of 600, Output current is
level at 25A and output voltage is 250V.
For this, converter angle of overlap in
degrees is ____.
9. A line-commutated inverter transfers
energy into a 440V, 50Hz 3-phase supply
from a battery of 500V. The battery is
linked to the converter through a large
filter choke of resistance of 12.4Ω. It is
desired for the battery to deliver 5kW
power. The firing angle at which the
inverter is to be operated is __________
degrees.
(A) 114.98 15. A battery with a nominal voltage of 200V
(B) 125.32
(C) 115.35 charged at a constant current of 20A from
(D) 126.32
10. A 3 − φ half-controlled rectifier is
supplying power to a current stiff load.
When =α 100° , the freewheeling duration
in one cycle is
(A) 400
(B) 1200
(C) 00
(D) 800
11. A 3-φ full converter bridge is connected
to a supply voltage of 230V per phase
and a frequency of 50 Hz. The source
inductance is 4mH. The load current on
the DC side is constant at 20A. If the load
consists of a DC source of internal emf
400 V with an internal resistance of 1 Ω,
then firing angle delay is
(A) 34.38° (B) 36.12°
(C) 39.26° (D) 40.12°
12. In a 6-pulse converter with a high
inductive load, which of the following are
correct.
I. Voltage ripple factor is minimum at α = 0°
II. Power factor is minimum at α = 0°
III. Power factor is maximum at α = 0°
IV. Voltage ripple factor is minimum at
α= 90°
Three Phase Rectifiers
(A) I and II (B) I and III
(C) II and IV (D) III and IV
13. A 3-φ half-wave controlled converter is
fed from 3 phase, 400 V, 50 Hz source
and is connected to a load taking a
constant current of 36A. Thyristors have
a voltage drop of 1.4V each. The average
power dissipated in each thyristor is,
(A) 15.2 W (B) 16.8 W
(C) 17.6 W (D) 18.4 W
14. A 3 phase full converter delivers power
to a load R = 50Ω . The source voltage is
440V, 50Hz. For a firing angle of 450, the
power delivered to load R is
(A) 3872W (B) 3200W
(C) 2918W (D) 5846W
and internal resistance of 100mΩ is to be
a 3φ , 220V,50Hz power supply through a
3 phase semi converter. The percentage
of THD in source current will be _______.
16. A 3 phase converter feeds an RLE load.
The source has a definite inductance
causing overlap and the thyristors are
ideal. It has an overlap angle µ of 200 at
the minimum firing angle α . The current
remains constant in the complete range
of firing angles. The range of firing angles
of the converter would be
(A) 0° < α < 180°
(B) 20° < α < 180°
(C) 0° < α < 160°
(D) 20° < α < 160°
17. By increasing the number of pulses in
rectification, the form factor and ripple
frequency
(A) Both increase
(B) Form factor decreases and ripple
frequency increases
(C) From factor increases and ripple
frequency decreases
(D) Both decrease
18. A 3 − φ , 415V, 50Hz full converter is
delivering a constant load current of
60A at 230V DC. Calculate the average
185
 current of SCR and r.m.s. current source
respectively.
(A) 20A, 40A of a 3 phase bridge converter would be
(B) 34.64A, 40A
(C) 34.64A, 48.98A
(D) 20A, 48.98A
19. A 3-pulse converter supplies from an ideal
transformer, a ripple-free load current to
RL FD load. The trigger angle is such that
the freewheeling diode, FD, conducts
each time for the same duration as each
SCR. The rms values of load current, SCR
current and FD current, respectively, are
1 1
(A) 1 : :
6 6
1 1
(B) 1 : :
3 3
1 1
(C) 1 : :
6 2
1 1
(D) 1 : : 50Hz. for a firing delay of 45o. The power
6 2
20. Analysis of voltage waveform of a single
phase bridge converter shows that it
Level 2
1. A separately excited DC motor fed from
a 3 phase semi-converter develops a
full load torque at 1500 rpm, when the
firing angle is 60°. The armature is taking
60A at 400V DC and has a resistance of
0.5Ω. The supply voltage per phase will
be _____V.
2. A single phase full converter, fed from
a 230V, 50Hz source, is operating at a
firing angle of 60°. The load current is
assumed ripple-free at 10A. The active
and fundamental reactive power inputs
to the converter are respectively-
(A) 1150W, 1991.84 VAR.
(B) 732.11W, 1268.02 VAR.
(C) 1035.36W, 1793.30 VAR.
(D) 1793.30 W, 1035.36 VAR.
3. A three phase 440V, 50HzACmains fed
thyristor bridge is feeding a 440V DC,
15 kW, 1500 rpm separately excited DC
186
contains x% of 6th harmonic. The 6th
harmonic content of the voltage waveform
(A) Difficult to predict as the analysis
of converters is not governed by any
generalized theory.
(B) Less than x% due to an increase in
the number of pulses than the single
phase converter.
(C) Equal to x%, the same as that of the
single phase converter.
(D) Greater than x%, due to changes in
the input and output voltages of the
converter.
21. A 3-φ, 50 Hz fully controlled bridge
converter is fed with a 500sinωt AC source
and has an inductance of 20mH/ phase.
If, the thyristor firing angle is 30° and the
overlap angle is 10°, then, the constant
DC load current is ________ A.
22. A 3-phased full converter delivers power to
a load R = 50Ω. The source voltage is 400V,
delivered to load R is ____________ (Watt)
motor with a ripple-free continuous
current in the DC link under all operating
conditions. Neglecting the losses, the
power factor of theAC mains at half the
rated speed is
(A) 0.354.
(B) 0.372.
(C) 0.90.
(D) 0.955.
4. A solar energy installation utilizes a three-
phase bridge converter to feed energy into
the power system through a transformer
of 400V/400V, as shown below
The energy is collected in a bank of
400V battery and is connected to a
converter through a large filter choke
of resistance 10Ω. The kVA rating of the
input transformer is
Three Phase Rectifiers
 (A) 53.2 kVA
(B) 46.0 kVA
(C) 22.6 kVA
(D) 19.6 kVA
5. The figure below shows an uncontrolled
diode bridge rectifier supplied from
a 220V, 50Hz, 1 phase AC source. The
load draws a constant current I0 = 14 A .
The conduction angle of the diode D1
in degrees (rounded off to two decimal
places) is_________.
6. Which of the following statements is not
correct?
(A) Source inductance reduces average
output voltage.
(B) Source inductance limits maximum
firing angle.
(C) The fundamental displacement factor
reduces due to source inductance.
(D) The distortion factor reduces due to
source inductance.
7. A single phase full converter fed from
220V, 50Hz gives an output voltage
of 175V at no load when loaded with a
constant output current of 10A, the
overlap angle is found to be 6°. Calculate
source inductance.
(A) 3.462 mH
(B) 2.664 mH
(C) 5.625 mH
(D) 8.266 mH
8. A 3 − φ , 50 Hz controlled bridge converter
is fed with a 500 sin ωt source that has
an inductance of 10 mH/phase of the
thyristor, firing angle is 30° and overlap
angle is 10°. The constant DC load current
will be
(A) 7.961 A (B) 4.562 A
(C) 6.422 A (D) 3.521 A
Three Phase Rectifiers
9. A 200V, 1450 RPM, 100A separately excited
DC machine has an armature resistance
of 0.04Ω. The machine is driven by a
three phase half controlled converter
operating from a three phased 220V, 50Hz
supply. The motor operates at the rated
speed and rated load torque. Assuming
continuous conduction, find out
(A) The firing angle of the converter
(B) RMS fundamental component of the
input current,
(C) Input current displacement factor
and distortion factors.
10. If a freewheeling diode is connected
across the output terminals of a three
phase fully controlled converter, will the
performance of the converter be similar
to a halfcontrolled converter? Justify
your answer.
11. A 220V, 1500 rpm, 50A, separately excited
DC motor with armature resistance of
0.5Ω if fed from a 3 phase half controlled
rectifier. The available AC source is 440V,
50Hz. A star-delta connected transformer
is used to feed the armature so that
the motor terminal voltage equals rated
voltage when the converter firing angle is
zero.
(A) Calculate the transformer turns ratio.
(B) Firing angle when (a) motor is running
at 1200 rpm and rated torque; (b)
1500 rpm and half the rated torque.
12. A battery with a nominal voltage of 200V
and internal resistance of 10mΩ has to
be charged at a constant current of 20
amps from a 3 phase, 220V, 50 Hz power
supply. Which of the following converters
will give better performance with respect
to input current displacement factor,
distortion factor and power factor?
a) 3 phase fully controlled converter;
b) 3 phase half controlled converter.
13. A 3 phase bridge rectifier charges a 240V
battery. The input voltage to the rectifier
is 3 phase 230V, 50 Hz current limiting
resistance in series with battery is 10Ω
and an inductor makes the load current
ripple-free, determine
187
 (A) Average charging current 19. A 3 − φ full-bridge converter is connected
(B) Rms value of source current to a supply of voltage 230 V per phase
and a frequency of 50 Hz. The Source
(C) Power delivered to the battery
inductance is 4 mH. The load current on
(D) Fundamental component of source the DC side is constant at 20 A. If, the
current load consists of a DC source of internal
(F) Transformer rating emf 400 V with an internal resistance of 1
Ω, then the overlap angle is
14. A 3 phase dual converter, operating in
the circulating current made has the (A) 7.12o
following data: (B) 4.17o
Per phase supply voltage = 230V, f = 50 Hz (C) 8.22o
α1 = 60 o
(D) 10.10o
Current limiting reactor, L = 10 mH 20. A 3 phase full converter is used for
Calculate the peak value of the circulating charging a battery with an emf of 100V
current. and internal resistance of 0.25 Ω . The
charging current is constant at 12A and
15. A 1-φ dual converter is operated from a
the AC line voltage is 220V. For this
220V, 50 Hz supply and the load resistance
purpose of delivering energy from the DC
is R = 8 Ω, the circulating inductance is
source to the 3 phase system, the firing
L = 35 mH, delay angles are α1 = 50o, α2
angle of the converter has been changed
= 130o, calculate peak circulating current.
to 160°. Then, the output AC line voltage
16. A 3 phase dual converter has a peak value for the same value of DC source current
of circulating current is 22A. Given that of 12A will be ________ V.
per phase supply voltage is 230V, 60 Hz, α1
= 45o. Calculate the value of the current (A) 75.65
limiting reactor in mH. (B) 76.58
17. Two 3-φ full converters are connected in (C) 74.47
antiparallel to form a 3-φ dual converter (D) 76.43
of the circulating current type. The input
21. The three phase full bridge converter
to the dual converter is 3-φ, 400V, 50 Hz if
shown is fed from 400V, 50Hz mains.
the peak value of the circulating current
It operates with a firing angle of 55°. If,
is to be limited to 20A. Find the value of
the load current is 20A and the output
inductance needed for the reactor for a
voltage is 240V, the source inductance
firing angle of α = 15o.
will be ________ mH.
18. A 3 − φ fully controlled rectifier is operated
from a 3 − φ star-connected 400V, 50Hz
AC supply and the load resistance is
R= 10Ω . A large inductance is connected
in series with the load to maintain a
ripple-free load circuit. If it is required
to obtain an average output voltage of
86.66% of the maximum possible output
voltage, find the firing angle
(A) 30o
(B) 60o
(C) 45o
(D) 90o

188 Three Phase Rectifiers

 22. A three phase fully controlled bridge
converter is fed through a star-delta
transformer as shown in the figure.

The converter is operated at a firing angle v

of 30°. Assuming the load current ( I0 )
to be virtually constant at 1pu and the
transformer to be an ideal one, the input

line current to the rectifier IBY is

Solutions

Test Your Understanding 3 Due to continuous load current always, at

least one SCR is conducting.
1. (C) Drop = const = 1.5 V
 120  I0
IT (av= I0  = = 12 A 3. Ripple frequency= fs × P
 360  3
)

As P increases, waveform tends to become

P 1.4 × 12
=
DC, and hence form factor approaches 1.
= 16.8W
4. (a) 11.14 A, 12.898 A (b) 74.60%
2. (C) π
(A) ∴ For 3-φ half wave α >
3Vml 6
=V0 cos α − VT 3Vmp   π 
2π =Vo  1 + cos  α +  
2π   6 
3 × 200 6
=V0 =cos 60 − 1.5 115.45V
2π

Three Phase Rectifiers 189

  220  2. 40V
3× × 2
 3  3Vml
=  1 + cos ( 42.6 + 30 )  =Vo cos α for α ≤ 60o
2π   π
Vo = 111.414 V 3Vml   π 
=Vo  1 + cos  α +   for α > 60
o
π   6 
Vo
So, I =
o
R 3Vml
Vo 300
= =
= 11.141 A π
π ∴ at α = 90o
1 6

∫ (V ) d ( ωt )
2   π π 
=Vor sin ωt Vo would be Vo = 300  1 + cos  +  
2π mp
 2 6 
α+
π 
3 6
Vo = 40.19 Volt
For α = 42.60o
∴ R load so upper limit is π 3. In 3 − φ bridge rectifier
1
VAB Vml sin ωt
=
Vm  5π  1  π  2
=Vor  − α  + sin  2α +  
2 π  6  2  3  VAN Vm sin ( ωt − 30 )
=
1
The voltage of A-phase is max at ωt =120
220 2  π 1 2
= ( 150 − 42.60 ) × + sin ( 85.2 + 60 )  0 − 60 : VCB
2 π  180 2 
Vor = 128.986V 60 − 120 : VAB

Vor 120 − 180 : VAC

Ior =
R VAC Vml sin ( ωt − 60 )
=
= 12.898
ωt =120
VoIo
(B) Rectification efficiency = 3
Vor Ior VAC = V
111.41 × 11.41 2 ml
× 100
128.986 × 12.89
3× 3
= 74.6% = = Vm 1.5 Vm
2

Test Your Understanding 2 Test Your Understanding 3

1. 11.666 msec 1.
For α = 30o V= 400 + 20 ×=
1 420 V
0
4π
α + ωtc = 3Vml
3 420
= cos α + cos ( α + µ ) 
2π  
4π π
ωtc = −
3 6 3 × 230 6
=420 cos α + cos ( α + µ ) 
2π  
 4π π 
 − 
 3 6 3 × 230 6
tc = =420 cos α − 6 × 50 × 0.004 × I0
2 × π × 50 π
= 11.666 msec α =34.38

190 Three Phase Rectifiers

 3 × 230 6 2Vm
420
2π
(
cos 34.38 + cos ( 34.38 + µ ) ) =Vo
π
cos α − 4fLs Io

µ 8.22°
= 2 × 330
=140 cos 45o − 4 × 50 × Ls × 5
π
2.
660 1
a) 6.68 mH b) 14.68o c) 8 Ω 1000Ls = × − 140
π 2
2Vm
a) V0
= cos α − 4fLs I0 [for 1-φ FC]
π Ls = 8.574 mH
2 × 220 × 2
120 cos 45o − 4 × 50 × Ls × 15 5.
π
I0 (max) = 40 A ( constant )
200 × 15 × Ls =
20.05
I= (rms ) I0=
2 / 3 40 2 / 3
Ls = 6.68 mH s

Vm S = 3VS IS ( rms )
b) ∴ I0
= cos α − cos ( α + µ ) 
2ωLs  
2
= 3 × 400 × 40
For 1-φ full converter 3
220 × 2 = 22.6KVA
15 cos 45o − cos ( 45 + µ ) 
−3  
2 × 100 × π × 6.68 × 10

× 2 6.
cos 45o − cos ( 45 + µ ) 
6.68 × 10 −3   V0 =
−350 + 20 × 0.5 =
−340 V

µ =14.68o 3Vml
340
−= cos α
π
c) Load resistance = 120 = 8Ω
15  340π 
=α cos−1  − =  125
°

3. (C)  3 × 440 2 
Because of source inductance during the
 240 − α
overlap period average voltage is zero so  , α60
tc =  ω
during α to α + µ voltage is zero. Hence with
Ls voltage reduces. Eg. Suppose 1-φ full-  180 − α , α > 60°
 ω
wave converter R load.
Hence from the figure, it is clear that the 180 − 125
tC
= = 55 / ω
average output voltage reduces. ω

4. 8.57 mH Each thyristor will be reverse biased for a

period of 55°
∴ For 1-φ full converter output voltage with
source inductance is

Level 1
α
Displacement power factor, DPF= cos
1. (B) 2
RMS supply current,
Fundamental RMS supply current,
6 α
Is 1 = I0 cos
π 2

Three Phase Rectifiers 191

  2 V 440
I0
 3
(when α < 60 ) 0 Vline(rms) =440V ; ∴ Vph(rms) =line =
3 3
=254.03V
Is = 
 π−α V 440
I0
 π
(when α > 60 ) 0
Vline(rms) =440V ; ∴ Vph(rms) =line =
3 3
=254.03V

6
I0 cos
α ∴V
∴ Vm
m
== 2
2V
Vph
ph(rms)
(rms)
== 2
2×× 254
254 == 359.25
359.25V
V
I1 π 2= 3 α
As α= 450 , DF= s= cos
Is 2 π 2 3
3 33= ×V
× Vm 3
3 3 3×× 359.21
359.21
∴V m cos α cos
cos 30
300 257.29
257.29V
0
I0 ∴ V = 2V =
= ∴ V0(av) = cos α =
= V
3 m ph(rms)
= 2 × 254 = 359.252
0(av) Vπ
2 π 2
2ππ
3 2 α 3
∴ IPF = DF × DPF = cos
= ∴=V cos2322.5
3 ×0Vm
= cos α
3 3 × 359.21
= cos 300 257.29V
π 2 0(av)
π 2π 2π
2. (D) Average output current,
For R load, α > 300 , discontinuous conduction V0(av) 257.26
I0(av)
= = = 12.86 A
mode, α =450 hence, the power delivered to R 20
V2
the load is P0 = or 4. (B)
R
1
  Here, V2ml = 2 × Vt = 2 × 230 = 325.27 2
V
2 × 440 
1 3  The average
 output voltage of a 3− φ diode
 3Vmp
2
 5π     2   3    π π   
 1 π    5π πis 1 
Vor=   − α  +  sin  + 2α    =   bridge  rectifier
 −  +  sin  +   
 4π  6  2 3     4π 3V  6 4  2 
3 × 325.27  3 2   
 = V0 = ml
= 310.61V 
 π π 
V= E + I0R
1 Then 0
  
2
 2
1  3  2 × 440   ∴ The average value of battery charging
       current,
  5π − π  + 1  sin  π + π   
2
3
+ 2α    =         
    4π  6 4  2   3 2    = V0 − E 310.61 − 240
  I = = 8.82 A
0
R 8
 
The fundamental component of source current,
1

Vor= 30812.4 ( 1.8326 ) + ( 0.25 )  2= 64169.99=

= 253.31V2 3
iS 1 i sin ωt
π 0
1
1 253.32
+ ( 0.25 )  = 0or 64169.99
=  2 V
P = 30812.4 ( 1.8326
 20 = 3208.488
= 253.31V) +W(0.25) 2= ∴ RMS value of the fundamental component
64169.99= 253.31V
of source current,
253.32
8W =P0 = 3208.488W 2 3 I0
20 iS 1
= ×
π 2
3. 12 to 13 RMS value of source current is,
The average output voltage for continuous  I02 × 2π 
1/2
2
ripple free output current is, = IS =  I
 π × 3  30
3 3Vm
V0(avg )
= cos α Input HF to THD
2π
1/2
Here Vm is the peak value of supply phase  2  1/2
 Is   1 2 
voltage. We have =   −1  1 0.31
 I  =   −=
 s1    0.955  
   

192 Three Phase Rectifiers

 Note: Remember that THD for 3 phase 2π
diode bridge rectifier is 31% Vml = V
3 0

5. (A) 2π
∴ PIV = Vml = V
3 0
3Vml
(S) 3 − φ full converter,
= V0 = α 0
π
π
Vml = V
3 0
π
∴ PIV = Vml = V0
3

7. (A)
Since, =α 450 < 600 , conduction will be
continuous
1/2
 2π
+α 
 1 3  3 π 3
Vor 
=
π/3 π ∫ V 2
ml
sin2
ω td ( ω
= t )  Vml  +
2π  3 2
cos 2α
 +α 
 3 
1/2
 2π
+α  1/2
VA Vm sin ωt
=  1 3  3 π 3 
V sin ωtd ( ω= t )
π / 3 π∫ ml
= Vor  2 2
Vml  + cos 2α 
2π  3 2 
Phase A will get maximum voltage
+α at ωt =90 . 
0
 3 
At this instant
V= VA − VB 3 π V
0 α 450 ⇒ V=
If = Vml × = ml V
or
2π 3 2
(
V0 Vm sin ωt − Vm sin ωt − 1200
= ) V 2
V 2

P0 = 1000W ⇒ or = ml = 1000
V0 = Vm + 0.5Vm = 1.5Vm R 2R
V=
2
ml
1000 × 2 × 10
6. (C)
2Vm Vml = 100 2V
(P) For 1 − φ FWCT rectifier,=
V0 =α 0
π  8. 4.6 to 4.9
π
Vm = V For 3 − φ full converter with source
2 0
inductance
∴ PIV =
2Vm =
πV0
2ωLs
cos ( α + =
µ ) cos α − I0 ; where Ls
2Vm Vml
(Q) 1 − φ semi converter,
= V0 =α 0
π 
π = Source inductance
Vm = V0
2 To get Ls :
π 3Vml 3ωLs
∴ PIV =Vm = V0 =V0 cos α − I0
2 π π
(R) 3 − φ half-wave converter, 3ωLs 3Vml
= I0 cos α − V0
3Vml π π
V0
= = α 0
2π 

Three Phase Rectifiers 193

 ∴ Ls =
2.68mH 13. (B)
Average current of SCR,
2 × 314.15 × 2.68 × 10−3
cos 60=
0
(
+µ cos 600 − ) 400 × 2
× 25
120 I0 36
ITA =×
I0 == = 12 A
360 3 3
cos ( 60 + µ ) = 0.4256
Average power dissipated in each SCR
µ =4.81 0
= ITA × VT = 12 × 1.4 = 16.8W

9. (A) 14. (A)

1/2
When the converter receives the power from 3 π 3 
load or works as an inverter For R load, Vor= Vml 2π
 + cos 2α 
 3 2 
P 5000
V0 =−E0 + IR and =
I = = 10 A
For α =45
0
E 500
Also, the battery polarity needs to be 3 π 3 
1/2

considered as negative in the line commutated V= 440 2 ×  + × 0 = 440V

or
2π  3 2 
inverter.
3Vml Vor2 440 × 440
cos α = 12.4 × 20.08 − 500 = −251.008V ∴ P0 = = = 3872W
π R 50
cos α = −0.422 => α = 114.98 0
15. 70 to 71
10. (B) V0 = E0 + IR = 200 + 0.1 × 20 = 202V
Since, α > 60 , the freewheeling diode will
0
For a 3-phase semi converter
conduct
3 6
V0
= V ( 1 + cos α )
(
FD willconduct for 3 × α − 60 = 3 × 40 = 120
0
) 0 0 2π ph
3 6 220
11. (A) 202 =
2π
× ( 1 + cos α ) => α=68.910
3
V0 = E + I0R = 400 + 20 × 1 = 420V
π−α 1800 − 68.910
3Vml 3ωLs = I
And s = I 20
= 15.71A
=V0 cos α − I0 0
π 1800
π π
And fundamental component of the source
3 6 × 230 3 ( 2π × 50 ) 4 × 10−3
=420 cos α − × 20 current
π π
6 α
 444  Is 1 = I0 cos  
α cos
= 
−1
 34.38
0 π 2
 537.99 
6 68.91
Is 1 = × 20 × cos = 12.85 A
12. (B) π 2
3
Input power factor, IPF =  cos α , maximum 
1 3 3 16. (D)
for α = 0˚ Vm  π + cos ( 2α ) 
VRMS 2 4π  We can’t switch on the thyristor in the overlap
 
Ripple factor= =
Vavg 3Vml region. So the range of firing angle should be
cos α µ < α < 180 − µ
π
1 3 3  Hence, if µ =200
Vm  + cos ( 2α ) 
VRMS 2 4π  The range of firing angles would be,
  , minimum for α=0˚
=
Vavg 3Vml 200 < α < 1600
cos α
π

194 Three Phase Rectifiers

 17. (D) 21. 3.5 to 4.5
Vor Assuming that the given voltage is line to line
FF = , as the number of pulses increases
Vo voltage,
in rectification, ripple frequency and form 3 2VLL 3 × 500
factor both decrease.
= V0
2π
cos α + cos
 = ( α + µ ) 
2π 
cos 300 + cos 4

Form factor decreases because the ripple

3 2VLL 3 × 500
in output voltage
= Vreduces,
0
2π
and
costhe
 cos
= ( α + µ ) 
α + voltage
2π
cos 300 =
 + cos 400  389.63V
waveform becomes smoother.
3Vml 3ωLs
18. (D) = V0 cos α − I
π π 0
3 − φ full converter,
=I0 60
= A, V0 230V

Each SCR in a 3-phase converter conducts

for 120˚ in 360˚
Average current of SCR,
120 1
ITA = I0 × = 60 × = 20 A
360 3
Each source conducts for 2400 in 3600 I × 3 × 314 × 20 × 10−3
3 × 500
RMS current of the source, 389.63
= cos 300 − 0
π π
240 2 413.4966 − 389.63
=Isr I0 = 60= 48.98 A =I0 = 3.98 A
360 3 5.9969

19. (C) 22. 3200

Given data,
In 3 pulse converters, each thyristor usually
conducts for 120˚. But in this case, the firing Vml= 400 2V , R= 50Ω, α= 450
angle is such that each SCR has to conduct
for 60˚ because the freewheeling diode for α < 600 , the resistive load has no effect
conducts for each time the same as SCR,
because the output voltage never becomes
and thus three thyristors conduct for a total
negative.
of 1800. Hence FD conducts 180˚.
1/2
60 I0 1 3 3 
IT ( rms ) I0=
= Vor Vml  +
= cos 2α 
360 6  2 4π 
180 I0 As α =450 in the given problem,
IFD( rms ) I0=
=
360 2 1/2
1 3 3  1
20. (B)
Vor= Vml  + ( 0 )  = 400 2 × = 400V
 2 2π  2
If the number of pulses increases, the output
waveform becomes more dc. The harmonic Vor2 400 × 400
P0
= = = 3200W
content will be decreased. R 50

Three Phase Rectifiers 195

 Level 2 4. (C)
V0 + E
1. 228 I0 =
R
Vt = 400V
α ≥ 90° (LCI )
Ia = 60 A
V0 ≤ 0
3Vml
400
=
2π
( 1 + cos α ) V0(max) + E
I0(max) =
R
400 × 2π
=Vml
3
( 1 + cos 60) = 558.5V 0 + 400
= = 40 A
558.5 10
=VL−L = 394.92 V
2 2 2
394.92 IS= I= 40
=Vph = 228 V
( rms ) 0
3 3
3
2
S = 3 × 400 × 40 = 16000 2
2. (C) 3
I0 = 10 A = 22.6kVA

2 × 230 2 5. 224˚ to 225˚

V0( avg ) = cos 60 103.53 V
π
Vm
=P V= I 1035.3 W I0
=  1 − cos µ 
0( avg ) 0 2ωLS 
=Q P tan α α =0
Q = 1053.3 tan60
220 2
= 1793.3VAR =14
200π × 0.01
( 1 − cos µ )
µ 44.17°
=
3. (A)
Neglect losses γ D 224.17°
=
ra = 0
6. (C)
 = Vt In a 2-pulse converter
Separately excited φ =const Ideally T1 : α → π + α
E V Source L, T1 : α → π + α + µ
N ∝ ∝ t ∝ Vt
φ φ
2π − ( π + α + µ )
At 440 V, N = 1500 rpm tC =
ω
N2 = 750 rpm
π−α−µ
= ≥ tq
Vt = 220V ω
α ≤ π − µ − tq
3 × 440 2
=220 cos α
π So, source inductance limits the firing angle.
cos α =0.3702 Average voltage reduces due to the extra
negative portion of the voltage waveform.
3 Due to the smooth waveform of the source
IPF
= cos α = 0.3535
π current, the distortion factor becomes less.

196 Three Phase Rectifiers

 But, FDF increases as the firing angle reduces 10. Connecting a diode at the output of a
and the cosine of the firing angle increases. three-phase fully controlled converter will
The correct option is (C). not make it performs as a half-controlled
converter. For example,
7. (B)
i) When απ/3≤ the freewheeling diode will
2Vm not come into conduction, and therefore,
=V0 cos α (I0 = 0)
π the converter will continue to perform like
a fully controlled converter which is very
2 × 220 2 different from that of a half-controlled
=175 cos α
π converter for this range of α.
α 27.93°
= ii) For απ/3>, the output voltage will be
clamped to zero for a certain part of the
Vm input cycle. However, the output voltage
=I0 cos α − cos ( α + µ ) 
2ωLS   will still have “six pulses” characteristics,
unlike a half-controlled converter.
220 2 Similarly, the input current waveform will
I0 cos 27.93 − cos 33.93 retain its quarter cycle symmetry which
200π × LS 
is not the case with a half-controlled
LS = 2.66 mH converter.

11. For a half-controlled converter

8. (A)
3 2
=I0
Vml
cos α − cos ( α + µ )  V0
= V ( 1 + cos α )
2ωLS   2π L
At α =0
500
cos 30 − cos 40 V0 = 220V
2 × 100π × 0.01 
= 7.956 A VL = 163V

Supply voltage = 440 V,

9. a) Underrated operating conditions; the
Primary phase voltage = 254 V
motor must be supplied with rated voltage.
Turns ratio = 1 : 0.64.
3 2
Therefore
= V0 V ( 1 + cos
= α ) 200 V (a) Eb = 220 − 0.5 × 50 = 195V
2π L 1500

Where VL = 230V 12
Eb = 195 × = 156V
α ≈ 70°
1200 15

b) Io = 100A Torque is rated, ∴ Ia = 50 A, V1200

= 156 + 0.5 × 50 = 181 volts
6 α
=Ii 1 = I cos 63.87amps 3 2
π 0 2 181 = × 163 ( 1 + cos α )
2π
α
Input displacement factor = cos = 0.819 α 49.87°
=
2
Input distortion factor
(b) V1500 at half rated torque = 195 + 0.5 × 25
6 α = 207.5V
= cos 0.712
π (π − α) 2
3 2
207.5 = × 163 ( 1 + cos α )
2π
α 27.7°
=

Three Phase Rectifiers 197

 12. The output voltage of the converter 2
should be b) Is = I
30
V0 = 200 + 20 × 10 × 10-3 = 200.2 V
a) With a fully controlled converter 2
= ×7
3
3 2
200.2 = × 220 cos α = 5.8A
π
=α 47.64° c) Power delivered to battery = EI0
= 240 × 7
Displacement factor = cos α = 0.674
= 1680 W
Distortion factor = 3π = 0.955
Power factor = Displacement factor × 2 3
d) Is 1 = I
Distortion factor = 0.6436 π 0
b) With a half-controlled converter
2 3
= ×7
3 2
200.2 = × 220 ( 1 + cos α ) π
2π = 7.8A
=α 69.65°
e) = 3Vs Is
α
Displacement factor = cos = 0.82
2 = 3 × 230 × 5.8

6 α = 2310.6 VA
cos = 0.8166
Distortion factor = π (π − α) 2
14.
Power factor = 0.6695 3VmL
The displacement factor and power factor
∴
= icp
ωL
( 1 − sin α ) 1

of a half-controlled converter are better

3 × 3 × 230 × 2
compared to a fully controlled = converter,
2π × 50 × 10 × 10−3
(
1 − sin60o )
while the distortion factor is poorer.
= 41.62A
13.
Given data, 15. 20 to 21
a) R = 10 Ω, VS = 230V, f = 50 Hz 2Vm
icp=
ωLr
( 1 − cos α )1
VmR
= 2 × 230V
= 325.26V 2 × 220 × 2
3VmR
=
2π × 50 × 35 × 10−3
(
1 − cos 50o )
V0 =
π = 20.216A
3 × 325.26
= 16. 34 to 35
π
∴ For 3-φ dual converter
= 310.56V
3VmL
Since, V0= E + I0R icp
=  1 − sin α 1 
ωL 
310.56= 240 + I0 × 10
3 × 3 × 230 × 2
=22  1 − sin 45o 
I0 = 7 A 2π × 60 × L  
L = 34.5mH

198 Three Phase Rectifiers

 17. 0.14 to 0.17 2ωLs .I0 2 × 2π × 50 × 4 × 20
cos ( α + µ ) = − + cos α = − + cos
Given data, Vml 1000 × 6 × 230
α = 15o
2ωLs .I0 α + µ = 42.6020
icp = 20 A 2 × 2π × 50 × 4 × 20
cos ( α + µ ) = − − α + µ 0= − 2ωLs .I00 +
+ cos α =cos cos 34.382 20× 2π × 50 × 4 × 20
V= 2 × 400 Vml = (
µ 42.602 )
1000 × −634.382
×=230
Vml
+ cos
8.22
α0 = − + cos
ml 1000 × 6 × 230
= 565.58 V α + µ = 42.6020 α + µ = 42.6020
ω 100π
= =µ 42.6020 − 34.382
= 0
8.220
= µ 42.6020 − 34.382
= 0
8.220
3VmL
So,=
icp
ωL
( 1 − sin α 1 ) ∴ Overlap angle = 8.220

20. (D)
3 × 565.68
20 = Initially,
100π × L
L = 0.155H E0 = 100V ; Rint = 0.25Ω; I0 = 12 A; V1 = 220V

18. (C) V0 = E0 + I0R = 100 + 12 × 0.25 = 103V

R= 10Ω, α= 30 0
3 6 3 6 220
V0 = E0 + IbyR resistor, =
= 100 + 12 × 0.25 = 103V V0 Vph cos
= α ⇒ 103 cos
= α ⇒ α 69.710
Power consumed 0 π π 3
Vor2 31063 Vor
2
3 6 220
=P= =>V0 5 ×= Vph cos
= α ⇒ 103 cos
= α ⇒ α 69.710
R π R π 3
Now α is increased to 160 and the battery
0

Vor =223.60V
delivers power to the system, so the converter
1 acts1 as a line commutated inverter. So, the
1 3 3 2 1 3 3  2
V=or
Vml  +
 2 4π
cos 2α =


Vml  +
 2 4π
cos 2 30 

( )
0 polarity of the battery must be reversed.

V0 = E0 + I0R =−100 + 12 × 0.25 =−97V

1 1

3 2 1 3 3 2
π
cos 2α =
 Vml  +
 2 4π
cos 2 300  ( ) =V0
3 6
Vph cos=
α ⇒ −97
3 6
V cos 160
= 0
⇒ Vph 44.13
  π π ph
Vml = 265.983 6 3 6
= V0 Vph cos=
α ⇒ −97 Vph cos 160
= 0
⇒ Vph 44.13V
Vml π π
V=
ph
= 108.58V
6 ⇒ VLine= 44.13 × 3= 76.436V

19. (C) 21. 11 to 12

Converter output voltage 400
data, Vline 400
Given= = V =>Vph V
V0 = E + I0R = 400 + 20 × 1 = 420V 3
Output voltage with overlap= The line to line maximum voltage,
3Vml 3ωLs
=V0 cos α − I0 Vml = 400 2V
π π

3 6 × 230 3 ( 2π × 50 ) 4 =I0 20
= A; V0 240V
=420 cos α − × 20
π 1000 × π 3Vml 3ωLs
=V0 cos α − I0
α =34.382 0
π π

Three Phase Rectifiers 199

 3 3 × 2π × 50 × Ls Since the firing angle is 300
=240 400 2 cos 550 − = × 20 ⇒ Ls  mH 0
11.64
π π IY − IR ⇒ 60 − 1800 → I0 2400 − 3600 → −I0
50 × Ls and
= × 20 ⇒ Ls 11.64mH  
IB − IY ⇒ 1800 − 3000 → I0 00 − 1200 → −I0
and
22. (D)
Each line conducts for 240˚ in a three-phase
full controlled converter. It supplies current
for 1200 and absorbs for another 120˚.
 
( ) ( )
I Y − I R ⇒ 300 + α − 1500 + α → I0

200 Three Phase Rectifiers