EN 60146-1-1:1993

SLOVENSKI STANDARD
01-junij-2001
Semiconductor convertors - General requirements and line commutated
convertors - Part 1-1: Specifications of basic requirements (IEC 60146-1-1:1991)
Semiconductor convertors - General requirements and line commutated convertors --
Part 1-1: Specifications of basic requirements
Halbleiter-Stromrichter - Allgemeine Anforderungen und netzgeführte Stromrichter -- Teil
1-1: Festlegung der Grundanforderungen
Convertisseurs à semiconducteurs - Spécifications communes et convertisseurs
commutés par le réseau -- Partie 1-1: Spécifications des clauses techniques de base
Ta slovenski standard je istoveten z: EN 60146-1-1:1993
ICS:
29.200 8VPHUQLNL3UHWYRUQLNL Rectifiers. Convertors.
6WDELOL]LUDQRHOHNWULþQR Stabilized power supply
QDSDMDQMH
2003-01.Slovenski inštitut za standardizacijo. Razmnoževanje celote ali delov tega standarda ni dovoljeno.

NORME CEI
IEC
INTERNATIONALE
146-1-1
INTERNATIONAL
Troisième édition
STANDARD
Third edition
1991-03
Convertisseurs à semiconducteurs
Spécifications communes et
convertisseurs commutés par le réseau
1-1:
Partie
Spécifications des clauses techniques de base
Semiconductor convertors
General requirements and
line commutated convertors
Part 1-1:
Specifications of basic requirements
réservés —
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IEC Publication 146-1-1
Publication 146-1-1 de la CEI
(3rd edition - 1991)
- 1991)
(39 édition
Semiconductor convertors -
Convertisseurs à semi-conducteurs -
General requirements and
Spécifications communes et
line commutated convertors
convertisseurs commutés par le réseau
Part 1-1: Specifications of basic
Partie 1-1: Spécifications des
requirements
clauses techniques de base
CORRIGENDUM
Page 114
Remplacer le tableau 6 existant
par le nouveau tableau 6 suivant:
Tableau 6 - Tensions d'essai, moyenne tension
Tension de choc Tension alternative
Tension réseau
(1,2 µs/50 µs) (fréquence industrielle)
kV
kV (crête) kV (valeur efficace)
0,5 < ULN 5 1,1 non applicable 1 + 2 Uk4/4
1,1 < 3,6
non applicable 3 UM/,l2
ULN 5
.ï,ü < ULN 5 38 15 + 3 UMtI2 4 + 1,8 UM/4-2--
Page 115
Replace existing table 6 with new table 6 below:
Table 6 - Test voltages, medium voltage
A.C. voltage
Impulse voltage
Line voltage
(1,2 µs/50 µs) (power frequency)
kV
kV (peak) kV r.m.s.
0,5 < ULN 5 1,1 non applicable 1 + 2 UMNT
1,1 < ULN 5 3,6 non applicable 3 UNTM
3,6 < ULN 5 38 15 + 3 UMgr 4 + 1 ,8 UM/lT
August 1993
Août 1993
146-1-1 © IEC - 3 -
CONTENTS
Page
FOREWORD
Section 1 - General
Clause
1.1 Scope and object
1.2 Normative references 13
1.3 Classification of semiconductor power equipment and valves
1.3.1 Classification of semiconductor power equipment 15
1.3.2 Classification of semiconductor valves
1.4 List of principal letter symbols and subscripts
1.4.1 List of subscripts
1.4.2 List of symbols (self evident symbols are not listed)
1.5 Definitions 23
1.5.1 Semiconductor device (IEV 551-03-05, modified)
1.5.2 Power semiconductor diode 25
1.5.3 Thyristor
1.5.4 Reverse blocking triode thyristor
1.5.5 Reverse conducting triode thyristor
1.5.6 Bidirectional triode thyristor (triac) 25
1.5.7 Turn-off thyristor (GTO = Gate Turn Off)
1.5.8 Combination of semiconductor devices
1.5.9 Convertor circuit elements 27
1.5.10 Convertor connection (IEV 551-04-17)
1.5.11 Controllability of convertor arms
1.5.12 Quadrants of operation (on d.c. side)
1.5.13 Commutation and quenching (see figure 1)
1.5.14 Type of commutation
1.5.15 Self commutation (IEV 551-05-06)
1.5.16 Type of quenching 33
1.5.17 Commutation circuit (IEV 551-05-09)
1.5.18 Trigger delay angle a (IEV 551-05-29, modified)
i3 37
1.5.19 Trigger advance angle
1.5.20 Inherent delay angle a , 37
1.5.21 Extinction angle 'y (IEV 551-05-30, modified)
1.5.22 Definitions of rated values
1.5.23 Definitions of rated values for assemblies and equipment 43
1.5.24 Efficiency definitions
1.5.25 Terms used in connection with convertor faults
1.5.26 Factors on the a.c. side
1.5.27 Terms used in connection with d.c. voltage
1.5.28 Terms used in connection with direct voltage regulation
1.5.29 Definitions related to cooling
1.5.30 Temperature definitions
1.5.31 Electrical disturbance 55
1.5.32 Level of immunity of a convertor
1.5.33 Level of generated disturbance of a convertor 55
1.5.34 Reference level of generated disturbance of a convertor
1.5.35 Relative short-circuit power, RSC
1.5.36 Compatibility of a system
1.5.37 Types and characteristics of common disturbances
1.5.38 Harmonic distortion (IEV 551-06-07)

146-1-1 © IEC -5-
Clause Page
Section 2 - Service conditions
2.1 Code of identification for cooling method 59
2.1.1 Letter symbols to be used
2.1.2 Arrangement of letter symbols
2.2 Environmental cond itions.
2.2.1 Ambient air circulation
2.2.2 Normal service conditions
2.2.3 Unusual service conditions 65
2.3 Electrical service conditions
2.3.1 Electrical environment specification
2.3.2 Unknown site conditions
2.4 Character of the load
2.5 Electrical se ice conditions as a basis of ratings 69
rv
2.5.1 Frequency
2.5.2 A.C. voltage
2.5.3 Voltage unbalance
2.5.4 A.C. voltage wave form
Section 3 - Convertor equipment and assemblies
3.1 Electrical connection and calculation factors
3.1.1 Standard design convertors
3.1.2 Special design convertors
3.2 Calculation factors
3.2.1 Voltage ratio
3.2.2 Line side current factor
3.2.3 Voltage regulation
77 3.2.4 Magnetic circuit
3.2.5 Power loss factor
3.3 Losses and efficiency 81
3.3.1 General
3.3.2 Included losses 81
3.3.3 Not included losses 83
3.4 Power factor
3.4.1 General
3.4.2 Power, reactive power, apparent power and displacement factor
3.5 Voltage regulation
3.5.1 Inherent direct voltage regulation 85
3.5.2 Influence of other convertors
3.5.3 Twelve pulse convertors 89
3.5.4 Boost and buck connection convertors (series connection)
3.6 Harmonics in line currents and voltages
3.6.1 Order of harmonics
3.6.2 Amplification of harmonic currents 91
3.7 Direct voltage harmonic content
3.8 A.C. current in the direct current output
3.9 Interference 91
3.9.1 Interference with in-plant low current control and communication lines
3.9.2 Interference with telephone and communication links

IEC
146-1-1 © - 7 -
Page
Clause
3.10 Rated values for convertors
3.10.1 General
3.10.2 Rated output voltage
3.10.3 Rated current values 95
3.10.4 Particular remarks for double convertors
Markings 99
3.11
3.11.1 Clear indication of manufacturer or supplier
3.11.2 Indication of the type of equipment 99
3.11.3 Marking of the input and output terminals of the main circuit
Rating plate 103
3.11.4
Section 4 - Tests for valve device assemblies and convertor equipment
4.1 General
4.1.1 Type tests
4.1.2 Routine tests
4.1.3 Performance of tests
4.1.4 Test schedule 109
4.2 Test specifications
4.2.1 Insulation tests
4.2.2 115 Light load and functional test
4.2.3 Rated current test
4.2.4 Power loss determination for assemblies and equipment
4.2.5 Temperature rise test
4.2.6 Power factor measurements
'121
4.2.7 Checking of auxiliary devices
Measurement of the inherent voltage regulation 4.2.8
4.2.9 Checking the properties of the control equipment
4.2.10 Checking the protective devices
4.2.11 Immunity test
4.2.12 Overcurrent capability test
Radio frequency generated interference and conducted noise 4.2.13
4.2.14 Audible noise
4.2.15 Measurement of ripple voltage and current
4.2.16 Additional tests
4.3 Tolerances
Annex A (informative) Index of definitions
Annex B (informative) Bibliography
Figures
1 - Types of commutation.
2 - Illustration of angles
3 - Voltage regulation 49
4 - A.C. voltage waveforms 73
Tables
1 - Connections and calculation factors
2 - Standard duty classes 97
3 - Examples of load cycles
4 - Summary of tests 109
5 - Test voltages, low voltage
6 - Test voltages, medium voltages

146-1-1 © IEC - 9 -
INTERNATIONAL ELECTROTECHNICAL COMMISSION
SEMICONDUCTOR CONVERTORS
General requirements and line commutated convertors
Part 1-1: Specifications of basic requirements
FOREWORD
The formal decisions or agreements of the IEC on technical matters, prepared by Technical Committees on which all
1)
the National Committees having special interest therein are represented, express, as nearly as possible, an interna-
tional consensus of opinion on the subject dealt with.
2) They have the form of recommendations for international use and they are accepted by the National Committees in
that sense.
In order to promote international unification, the IEC expresses the wish that all National Committees should adopt the
3)
text of the IEC recommendation for their national rules in so far as national conditions will permit. Any divergence
between the IEC recommendation and the corresponding national rules should, as far as possible, be clearly indicated
in the latter.
This standard has been prepared by Sub-Committee 22B: Semiconductor Convertors, of
IEC Technical Committee No. 22: Power electronics. It constitutes Part 1 of IEC 146 and
partly replaces IEC 146 (1973) and its Amendment No. 1 (1975).
The text of this standard is based upon the following documents:
Six Months' Rule Report on the Voting Two Months' Procedure Report on the Voting
22B(CO)55 22B(CO)57
22B(CO)50 226(CO)54
Full information on the voting for the approval of this standard can be found in the Voting
Reports indicated in the above table.

146-1-1 © IEC - 11 -
SEMICONDUCTOR CONVERTORS
General requirements and line commutated convertors
Part 1-1: Specifications of basic requirements
Section 1 - General
1.1 Scope and object
This International Standard specifies the requirements for the performance of all electronic
power convertors and electronic power switches using controllable and/or non-controllable
electronic valves.
The electronic valves mainly comprise semiconductor devices, i.e. diodes and various
thyristors, turn-
thyristors and transistors, such as reverse blocking or conducting
types of
off thyristors, triacs and power transistors. The devices may be controlled by means of
current, voltage or light. Non-bistable devices are assumed to be operated in the switched
mode.
This standard is primarily intended to specify the requirements applicable to line commu-
tated convertors for conversion of a.c. power to d.c. power or vice versa. Parts of this
standard are applicable also to other types of electronic power convertors and should be
regarded as a standard for them in so far as it is not in contradiction to additional IEC
Standards for particular types of semiconductor convertors given in existing or future IEC
Publications.
These specific equipment requirements are applicable to semiconductor power convertors
that either implement different types of power conversion or use different types of commu-
tation (for example semiconductor self-commutated convertors) or involve particular appli-
cations (for example semiconductor convertors for d.c. motor drives) or include a
combination of said characteristics (for example direct d.c. convertors for electric rolling
stock).
The main purposes of this standard are as follows:
Part
1-1, IEC 146-1-1, Specifications of basic requirements.
- to establish basic terms and definitions;
- to specify service conditions which influence the basis of rating;
- to specify test requirements for complete convertor equipment and assemblies, stan-
dard design, (for special design see IEC 146-1-2);
- to specify basic performance requirements;
- to give application oriented requirements for semiconductor power convertors.

146-1-1 © IEC -13-
Part 1-2, IEC 146-1-2, Application guide
- to give additional information on test conditions and components, (for example:
semiconductor devices), when required for their use in semiconductor power con-
vertors, in addition to or as a modification on existing standards;
- to provide useful reference, calculation factors, formulae and diagrams pertaining to
power convertor practice.
Part 1-3, IEC 146-1-3, Transformers and reactors
- to give additional information on characteristics wherein convertor transformers differ
from ordinary power transformers. In all other respects, the rules specified in IEC 76,
shall apply to convertor transformers, as far as they are not in contradiction with this
standard.
1.2 Normative references
The following standards contain provisions which, through reference in this text, constitute
provisions of this International Standard. At the time of publication, the editions indicated
were valid. All standards are subject to revision and parties to agreements based on this
International Standard are encouraged to investigate the possibility of applying the most
recent editions of the standards listed below. Members of IEC and ISO maintain registers of
currently valid International Standards.
Chapter 151: Electrical
IEC 50(151): 1978, International Electrotechnical Vocabulary (1EV) -
and magnetic devices.
Chapter 441: Switch-
IEC 50(441): 1984, International Electrotechnical Vocabulary (1EV) -
gear, controlgear and fuses.
Chapter 551: Power
IEC 50(551): 1982, International Electrotechnical Vocabulary (1EV) -
Electronics.
Chapter 601: Gener-
IEC 50(601): 1985, International Electrotechnical Vocabulary (IEV) -
ation, transmission and distribution of electricity. General.
IEC 76: 1976, Power transformers.
Disturbances in supply systems caused by household appliances and
IEC 555-1: 1982,
similar electrical equipment - Part 1: Definitions.
Insulation co-ordination within low-voltage systems including clearances
IEC 664: 1980,
and creepage distances for equipment.
IEC 725: 1981, Considerations on reference impedance for use in determining the dis-
turbance characteristics of household appliances and similar electrical equipment.
Some other IEC publications are quoted for information in Annex B: Bibliography.

146-1-1 © IEC - 15 -
1.3 Classification of semiconductor power equipment and valves
1.3.1 Classification of semiconductor power equipment
A general synopsis of IEC Publications, applying to the great variety of types of semicon-
ductor power equipment, requires a classification that can be based on the following char-
acteristics:
a) Type of conversion and switching:
1) a.c. to d.c. conversion (rectifier);
2) d.c. to a.c. conversion (inverter);
d.c. to d.c. conversion (direct or indirect d.c. to d.c. convertor);
3)
4) a.c. to a.c. conversion (direct or indirect a.c. to a.c. convertor);
5) switching (periodic or non-periodic).
b) Purpose of conversion: In a power system the convertor changes or controls one or
more characteristics such as:
1) frequency (including zero frequency);
2) voltage level;
3) number of phases;
4) flow of reactive power;
5) quality of load power.
c) Type of valve turn-off: (see figure 1). A semiconductor valve can be turned off either
by commutation implying that the current of the valve is transferred to another valve or
by quenching if the current of the valve falls to zero before another valve is turned on.
Both types of valve turn-off may occur in normal operation of a.c. to d.c. convertors depending on the load.
NOTE -
The classification is based on normal operation, full load current.
The types of valve turn-off can be characterized by the source of the turn-off voltage:
1) external commutation (quenching);
1A) line commutation (quenching);
1B) load commutation (quenching);
2) self commutation (see also 1.3.2, note 2).
d) Type of d.c. system: Convertors connected to at least one d.c. system can usually be
wholly or partly classified as current source or voltage source depending on whether the
current or the voltage on the d.c. side is smoothed.
For a convertor connecting an a.c. system to a d.c. system, rectification implies a power
flow from the a.c. to the d.c. side and inversion a power flow in the opposite direction.
For each mode of operation, in a current source system the current is unidirectional, but
the voltage polarity depends on the direction of the power flow. In a voltage source
system the converse applies.
146-1-1 © IEC - 17 -
1.3.2 Classification of semiconductor valves
Valves used in the power circuits of power electronic equipment can be divided into the
following categories:
1) non controllable valve with a conductive forward and a blocking reverse characteristic
(diode valve);
2) valve with a controllable forward and a blocking reverse characteristic (for example
reverse blocking thyristor valve);
valve with a controllable forward and a conductive reverse characteristic (for example
3)
reverse conducting thyristor valve);
4) valve which is controllable in both directions (for example triac valve).
NOTES
1 A valve is controllable if it can be switched from the blocking to the conducting state by means of a control signal.
Thyristors
2 Transistor and turn-off thyristor valves can be turned off by a signal applied to or taken off the gate.
and triacs do not have this property and must be turned off by main circuit voltages and currents.
1.4 List of principal letter symbols and subscripts
1.4.1 List of subscripts
0 (zero) at no load
c commutating
C short-circuit
d direct current or voltage
f dependent of frequency
h
h pertaining to harmonic component of order
ideal
L referring to line or source
m maximum
min minimum
N rated value or at rated load
inherent
p
146-1-1 © IEC - 19 -
R repetitive (overvoltage)
r resistive
non-repetitive (overvoltage)
S
v valve side
x inductive
a controlled value (by delay angle)
1.4.2 List of symbols (self evident symbols are not listed)
inductive direct voltage regulation due to convertor transformer referred to Ud;
dxtN
inductive component of the relative short-circuit voltage of the convertor
exN
transformer corresponding to
/LN
fN rated frequency
number of sets of commutating groups between which /cm is divided
h order of harmonic
direct current (any defined value)
la
rated direct current
/d N
rated continuous direct current (maximum value)
/dmN
r.m.s. current on line side (of convertor or transformer if included)
IL
rated value of /L
/LN
r.m.s. value of the fundamental component of
/LN
/ 1 LN
h of
r.m.s. value of harmonic order
/LN
/hLN
rated value on valve side of transformer
/vN
pulse number
P
P active power
power on line side at rated load
PLN
commutation number
p
reactive power on line side at rated load
Qi LN
relative short-circuit power
Rsc
146-1-1 © IEC -21 -
number of series connected commutating groups
s
short-circuit power calculated at the a.c. terminals of the commutating arms
Scorn
Sc short-circuit power of the supply source
minimum value of Sc
SCmin
rated apparent power on line side
SLN
value of SLN based on
/1LN
S 1 LN
transformer rated apparent power
StN
angle of overlap (commutation angle)
u
Ud direct voltage (any defined value)
conventional no load direct voltage
Udo
with trigger delay angle a
value of Udo
UdOac
real no-load direct voltage
UdOo
ideal no-load direct voltage
Udi
controlled ideal no-load direct voltage
Udia
rated direct voltage
UdN
total inductive direct voltage regulation at rated direct current
UdxN
h of UL
r.m.s. value of harmonic order
UhL
ideal crest no-load voltage, appearing between the end terminals of an arm
Ui M
neglecting internal and external voltage surge and voltage drops in valves, at
no load. The ratio remains the same at light load current close to the transition
current.
line-to-line voltage on line side of convertor or transformer, if any
UL
rated value of UL
ULN
including repetitive overvoltage but
maximum instantaneous value of U L
ULRM
excluding non repetitive overvoltages
including non repetitive overvoltages
maximum instantaneous value of UL
ULSM
excluding transient overvoltages
maximum instantaneous value of UL
ULWM
UM maximum peak voltage (see 4.2.1.4)

146-1-1 ©! EC -23-
no-load line-to-line voltage on the line side of the convertor or on the valve side
U,0
of the transformer, if any
U„N rated voltage on the valve side of the transformer
XtN inductive voltage drop of the transformer in per unit
a trigger delay angle
a
inherent delay angle
trigger advance angle
extinction angle
number of commutating groups commutating simultaneously per primary
total power factor
v deformation factor
displacement angle of the fundamental component of
!_
1.5 Definitions
For the purpose of this International Standard, the following definitions apply. In this stan-
dard, IEV definitions are used wherever possible, particularly those in IEC 50(551).
The policy adopted is as follows:
1)when a suitable IEV definition exists, the title and reference are given without repeat-
ing the text;
2) when an existing IEV definition needs amplification or additional information, the title,
the reference and the additional text are given;
3) when no IEV definition exists, the title and the text are given;
4) the definitions appear under:
A) for general terms (1.5.1 to 1.5.28);
B) for service conditions (1.5.29 to 1.5.30);
for definitions concerning compatibility (1.5.31 to 1.5.37).
C)
An alphabetical index is given in Annex A (informative).

146-1-1 © IEC - 25 -
A) General terms
1.5.1 Semiconductor device (lEV 551-03-05, modified)
Device whose essential characteristics are due to the flow of charge carriers within a
semiconductor.
1.5.2 Power semiconductor diode
Two-terminal semiconductor device having an asymmetrical voltage/current characteristic,
designed for use in power convertor connections.
NOTE - Unless otherwise qualified, this term usually means a device with a voltage current characteristic typical of a
single PN junction.
1.5.3 Thyristor
Bi-stable semiconductor device comprising three or more functions which can be switched
from the off-state to the on-state.
NOTE - The term 'thyristor" is used as a generic term to cover the whole range of PNPN type devices. It may be used by
itself for any member of the thyristor family when such use does not result in ambiguity or misunderstanding. In par-
ticular, the term 'thyristor" is widely used for reverse blocking triode thyristor, formerly called "silicon controlled rectifier.
1.5.4 Reverse blocking triode thyristor
Three-terminal thyristor which does not turn on for negative anode voltage but exhibits a
reverse blocking gate.
1.5.5 Reverse conducting triode thyristor
which does not block for negative anode voltage but conducts
Three-terminal thyristor
large reverse currents at voltages comparable in magnitude to the forward on-state volt-
ages.
1.5.6 Bidirectional triode thyristor (triac)
Three-terminal thyristor having substantially the same switching behaviour in the first and
third quadrants of the principal characteristic.
1.5.7 Turn-off thyristor (GTO = Gate Turn Off)
Thyristor which can be switched from the on-state to the off-state and vice versa by apply-
ing control signals of appropriate polarity to the gate terminal.
Combination of semiconductor devices
1.5.8
1.5.8.1 (Valve device) stack (IEV 551-03-11)

146-1-1 © IEC - 27 -
1.5.8.2 (Valve device) assembly (IEV 551-03-12)
(Electronic) (power) convertor (lEV 551-02-01, modified)
1.5.8.3
An operative unit for electronic power conversion comprising one or more assemblies
together with convertor transformer(s), essential switching devices and other auxiliaries, if
any. It may include the trigger equipment.
1.5.8.4 Trigger equipment (gating equipment)
Equipment which provides suitable trigger pulses from a control signal for controllable valve
devices in a convertor or power switch including timing or phase shifting circuits, pulse
generating circuits and usually power supply circuits.
1.5.8.5 System control equipment
Equipment associated with a convertor equipment or system which performs automatic
adjustment of the convertor output characteristics as a function of a controlled quantity (for
example motor speed, tractive force, etc.).
1.5.9 Convertor circuit elements
1.5.9.1 (Circuit) valve (IEV 551-04-01)
1.5.9.2 (Valve) arm (IEV 551-04-04)
1.5.9.3 Principal arm (lEV 551-04-05, modified)
A (valve) arm involved in the major transfer of power from one side of the convertor or
electronic switch to the other.
Auxiliary arm (IEV 551-04-12)
1.5.9.4
1.5.9.5 By-pass arm (IEV 551-04-13)
Free-wheeling arm (IEV 551-04-14)
1.5.9.6
1.5.9.7 Turn-off arm (lEV 551 04-15)
1.5.9.8 Regenerative arm (IEV 551-04-16)
1.5.10 Convertor connection (IEV 551-04-17)
1.5.10.1 Basic convertor connection (IEV 551-04-18)

146-1-1 - 29 -
© IEC
1.5.10.2 Single-way connection (of a convertor) (lEV 551-04-21)
1.5.10.3 Double-way connection (of a convertor) (IEV 551-04-22)
1.5.10.4 Uniform connection (IEV 551-04-24)
1.5.10.5 Non-uniform connection (lEV 551-04-27)
1.5.10.6 Series connection (IEV 551-04-30, modified)
A connection in which two or more convertors are connected in such a way that their volt-
ages add.
Boost and buck connection (lEV 551-04-31, modified)
1.5.10.7
A series connection in which the convertors are controlled independently.
1.5.11
Controllability of convertor arms
1.5.11.1
Controllable arm
Convertor arm including controllable semiconductor element(s) as valve device(s).
1.5.11.2
Non-controllable arm
Convertor arm including no controllable semiconductor element(s) as valve device(s).
1.5.12
Quadrants of operation (on d.c. side)
Each quadrant of the voltage current plane is defined by the d.c. voltage polarity and the
current direction.
1.5.12.1 One quadrant convertor (IEV 551-02-14)
1.5.12.2 Two quadrant (single) convertor (IEV 551-02-15)
1.5.12.3 Four quadrant (double) convertor (IEV 551-02-16)
1.5.12.4 Reversible convertor (lEV 551-02-17)
1.5.12.4.1 Single convertor (lEV 551-02-18)
1.5.12.4.2 Double convertor (lEV 551-02-19)

146-1-1 © IEC - 31 -
1.5.12.4.3 Convertor section of a double convertor (IEV 551-02-20)
1.5.13 Commutation and quenching (see figure 1)
1.5.13.1 Commutation (IEV 551-05-01, modified)
Transfer of current from one conducting arm to the next to conduct in sequence, without
interruption of the d.c. current. During a finite interval of time both arms are conducting
simultaneously.
1.5.13.2 Quenching (IEV 551-05-02, modified)
The termination of current flow in an arm without commutation.
1.5.14 Type of commutation
1.5.14.1 Direct commutation (lEV 551-05-07)
1.5.14.2 Indirect commutation (lEV 551-05-08)
1.5.14.3 External commutation (IEV 551-05-03)
1.5.14.3.1 Line commutation (lEV 551-05-04)
1.5.14.3.2 Load commutation (lEV 551-05-05)
1.5.14.3.3 Machine commutation
A method of load commutation in which the commutating voltage is supplied from a
machine not included in the source of power.
1.5.14.3.4 Resonant load commutation
A method of load commutation in which the commutating voltage is supplied from the load,
taking advantage of its resonant property.
Self commutation (lEV 551-05-06)
1.5.15
1.5.15.1 Directly coupled capacitor commutation
A method of self commutation in which the commutating voltage is supplied by capacitors
included in the commutation circuit.

146-1-1 © IEC - 33 -
1.5.15.2 Inductively coupled capacitor commutation
A method of capacitor commutation in which the capacitor circuit is inductively coupled to
the commutation circuit.
1.5.15.3 Device commutation
A method of self commutation in which the commutating voltage is produced by the valve
device itself.
1.5.16 Type of quenching
1.5.16.1 Device quenching
A method of quenching in which the quenching is performed by the valve device itself.
1.5.16.2 External quenching
A method of quenching in which the quenching results from causes external to the device.
NOTE - Quenching occurs in line-commutated convertors under discontinuous conduction operation.
1.5.17 Commutation circuit (lEV 551-05-09)
1.5.17.1 Commutating voltage (IEV 551-05-12)
1.5.17.2 Commutation inductance (IEV 551-05-11, modified)
Total inductance included in the commutation circuit, in series with the commutating volt-
age.
For line or machine commutated convertors the commutation reactance is the impedance of the commutation
NOTE -
inductance at the fundamental frequency.
1.5.17.3 Angle of overlap u (lEV 551-05-14, modified)
The duration of the commutation interval between a pair of principal arms, expressed in
ry current.
angular measure, where the two arms car
Commutation notch
1.5.17.4
A periodic voltage transient that may appear in the a.c. voltage of a line or machine-com-
mutated convertor due to commutation.
1.5.17.5 Commutation repetitive transient
Voltage oscillation associated with the commutation notch.

146-1-1 ©IEC
- 35 -
S-TART
C D
YES
0 / CURRENT TRANSFER
BETWEEN ARMS?
QUENCHING COMMUTATION
1.5.13.1
1.5.13.2
0 NO
YES S
AUXILIARY ARM?
DUE TO DEVICE?
EXTERNAL DEVICE DIRECT INDIRECT
QUENCHING COMMUTATION COMMUTATION
QUENCHING
1.5.16.2 1.5.16.1 1.5.14.1 1.5.14.2
0 YES
EXTERNAL MEANS?
SELF EXTERNAL
COMMUTATION
COMMUTATION
1.5.15
1.5.14.3
NO YES
YES
COMMUTATING VOLTAGE
TO DEVICE?
FROM LINE?
CAPACITOR
DEVICE LOAD LINE COMMUTATION
COMMUTATION COMMUTATION COMMUTATION 1.5.14.3.1
1.5.15.3 1.5.14.3.2
NO YES
0 ES
DIRECTLY COUPLED
FROM MACHINE?
CAPACITOR ?
INDUCTIVELY DIRECTLY COUPLED RESONANT LOAD MACHINE
COUPLED CAPACITOR CAPACITOR COMMUTATION COMMUTATION
1.5.14.3.3
1.5.14.3.4
COMMUTATION COMMUTATION
1.5.15.2 1.5.15.1
Figure 1 - Types of commutation

146-1-1 © IEC - 37 -
1.5.17.6 Commutating group (1EV 551-05-10)
1.5.17.7 Commutation number q (lEV 551-06-03, modified)
The number of commutations from one principal arm to another, occurring during one
period of the alternating voltage in each commutating group.
1.5.17.8 Pulse number p (lEV 551-06-01, modified)
The number of non-simultaneous symmetrical direct or indirect commutations from one
principal arm to another, during one period of the alternating voltage.
a
1.5.18 Trigger delay angle (lEV 551-05-29, modified)
The time expressed in angular measure by which the trigger pulse is delayed with respect
to the reference instant (see figure 2).
For line, machine or load commutated convertors the reference instant is the zero crossing
instant of the commutating voltage.
For a.c. controllers it is the zero crossing instant of the supply voltage.
For a.c. controllers with inductive load, the trigger delay angle is the sum of the phase shift
and the current delay angle.
1.5.19 Trigger advance angle 13
The time expressed in angular measure by which the trigger pulse is advanced with respect
to the reference instant (see figure 2).
For line, machine or load commutated convertors the reference instant is the zero crossing instant of the
NOTE -
commutating voltage.
a p
1.5.20 Inherent delay angle
The delay angle which occurs in some convertor connections (for example 12 pulses)
under certain operating conditions even if no phase control is applied.
1.5.21 Extinction angle y (lEV 551-05-30, modified)
The time, expressed in angular measure, between the moment when the current of the arm
to withstand steeply rising off-state
falls to zero and the moment when the arm is required
voltage.
146-1-1 ©IEC - 39 -
A 1 ■.4 •
-I
lit A
Figure 2 - Illustration of angles
1.5.22 Definitions of rated values
1.5.22.1 Rated value
A specified value for the electrical, thermal, mechanical and environmental quantities
a rectifier
assigned by the manufacturer to define the conditions under which a thyristor,
or diode stack, assembly or convertor is expected to give satisfactory ser-
diode, thyristor
vice.
NOTES
1 The nominal value of a system (for example nominal voltage, IEV 601-01-21) is often equal to the corresponding rated
value of the equipment, where both values are within the tolerance band of a quantity.
2 Unlike many other electrical components, semiconductor devices may be irreparably damaged, even within a very
time of operation, in excess of maximum rated values.
short
3 Variations of rated values should be specified. Certain of the values assigned are limiting values. These limiting values
may be either maximum or minimum values.

IEC 41 -
146-1-1 © -
1.5.22.2 Definitions of rated values for convertors and their transformers
1.5.22.2.1 Rated frequency fN
The specified frequency on the a.c. side of a convertor.
1.5.22.2.2 Rated voltage on the line side
ULN
The specified r.m.s. value of the voltage between conductors on the line side of the con-
vertor. If the line side transformer winding is provided with taps, the rated value of the volt-
age of the line side shall refer to a specified tap, which is the principal tap.
U„N
1.5.22.2.3 Rated voltage on the valve side of the transformer
The r.m.s. value of the no-load voltage between vectorially consecutive commutating phase
terminals of the valve windings of a commutating group at rated voltage on the line side of
the transformer. If no transformer is provided, within the convertor case of a directly con-
nected convertor, the rated voltage on the valve side is the rated voltage on the line side of
the convertor.
Rated current on the line side
1.5.22.2.4
II.N
The maximum r.m.s. value of the current on the line side of the convertor under rated
conditions. It takes into account rated load and the most onerous combination of all other
conditions within their specified ranges, for example line voltage and frequency deviations.
NOTES
1 For polyphase equipment, this value is computed from the rated direct current on the basis of rectangular shaped
currents of the convertor elements.
For single phase equipment, the basis of calculation should be specified.
2 The rated line current includes currents supplied to the auxiliary circuits of the convertor. It also takes into account the
effect of d.c. current ripple and circulating current, if any.
Rated current on the valve side IAN
1.5.22.2.5
The maximum r.m.s. value of the current on the valve side of the convertor under rated
conditions. It takes into account rated load and the most onerous combination of all other
conditions within their specified ranges, for example line voltage and frequency deviations.
basis of rectangular
For polyphase equipment, this value is computed from the rated direct current on the
NOTE -
shaped currents of the convertor elements.
For single phase equipment, the basis of calculation should be specified.

- 43 -
146-1-1 © I EC
1.5.22.2.6 Rated apparent power on the line side
SLN
The total apparent power, at the line side terminals, at rated frequency, rated voltage on the
line side and rated current on the line side.
Definitions of rated values for assemblies and equipment
1.5.23
1.5.23.1 Rated direct voltage
UdN
The specified value, at rated d.c. current, of the direct voltage between the d.c. terminals of
the assembly or equipment. This value is the mean value of the direct voltage.
Rated direct current
1.5.23.2
ldN
Mean value of the direct current specified by the manufacturer for specified load and ser-
vice conditions.
are compared.
h may be referred to as the 1,0 p.u. value, to which other values of I d
NOTE -
Rated continuous direct current, maximum value
1.5.23.3
/dmN
The mean value of the direct current, which an assembly or convertor is capable of carrying
continuously without damage, for specified service conditions.
NOTES
1 The rated continuous direct current of an assembly is very often essentially higher than the rated direct current of the
corresponding complete equipment.
2 The rated continuous direct current of an assembly may be limited by parts other than the semiconductor devices (for
example the cooling system).
1.5.23.4 Rated d.c. power
The product of the rated direct voltage and the rated direct current under the conditions as
specified in this standard and within the operating limitations assigned to the equipment by
the manufacturer.
The measured d.c. power may differ from the rated d.c. power as defined because of voltage and current ripple.
NOTE -
1.5.24 Efficiency definitions
1.5.24.1 Conversion factor
The ratio of the product of the mean values of direct voltage and direct current to the fun-
damental power on the a.c. side (or reciprocal for inverter operation).

146-1-1 © IEC - 45 -
1.5.24.2
Power efficiency
The ratio of the output power to the input power of the convertor.
NOTES
1 In the conversion factor, the power of the a.c. components on the d.c. side is not taken into account. In the power
efficiency, it is included in the d.c. power. Therefore, for a.c. to d.c. conversion, the conversion factor has a lower value.
For a single phase, two-pulse (full wave) convertor with resistive load, the theoretical maximum conversion factor is 0,81
p.u., where the maximum power efficiency is 1,0 p.u.
2 The conversion factor may be correctly obtained only by measurement of the fundamental a.c. power and d.c. voltage
and current. The power efficiency may be correctly obtained either by measurement of a.c. power and d.c. power or by
calculation or measurement of internal losses.
Terms used in connection with convertor faults
1.5.25
See IEC 146-1-2.
1.5.26 Factors on the a.c. side
X (lEV 551-06-04)
1.5.26.1 Total power factor
- active power
7L
apparent power
1.5.26.2 Power factor of the fundamental wave or displacement factor cos cp 1
(lEV 551-06-05, modified)
active power of the fundamental wave
cos cp t -
apparent power of the fundamental wave
Deformation factor y
1.5.26.3
7L
v -
coscpi
1.5.27 Terms used in connection with d.c. voltage
1.5.27.1 Ideal no-load direct voltage Udl (lEV 551-06-16, modified)
The theoretical no-load mean direct voltage of a convertor, assuming no reduction by
phase control, no voltage drop in the assemblies and no voltage rise at small loads. It is
the commutation number
obtained from the voltage between two commutating phases Uvo,
between terminals on d.c.
s,
q and the number of series-connected commutating groups
side, by the formula:
146-1-1 © I EC - 47 -
U U x — ^ x q^s
di v0
NOTE - The formula is not valid for voltage multiplying circuits.
1.5.27.2 Controlled ideal no-load direct voltage U (lEV 551-06-17, modified)
dia
The theoretical no-load mean direct voltage of a convertor, when the direct voltage is
reduced by phase control, assuming no voltage drop in the assemblies and no voltage rise
at small loads as obtained by the formulae below.
1.5.27.2.1 Uniform connection
If the direct current is continuous over the entire control range:
a)
Udia=Ud;x cos a
b) If the convertor load is purely resistive:
for
IC n
U dia — Udixcosa
2 p
for
1 —sin(a —n/p)
n_ _n U aia —
/p)
2 p 2 p Uaix 2sin(n
1.5.27.2.2 Non-uniform connections
Udia=0,5xUdix(1+cosa)
1.5.27.3 Conventional no-load direct voltage (IEV 551-06-18, modified)
Udo
The mean value of the direct voltage which would be obtained by extrapolating the direct
voltage/current characteristic for continuous direct current back to zero current.
is equal to the sum of and the no-load voltage drop in the assembly.
NOTE - Udi
Udo
1.5.27.4 Controlled conventional no-load direct voltage U
doa.
(lEV 551-06-19, modified)
The conventional no-load mean direct voltage obtained when extrapolating the direct vol-
tage/current characteristic, corresponding to a delay angle a, back to zero current.

© IEC
146-1-1 - 49 -
1.5.27.5 (lEV 551-06-20, modified)
Real no-load direct voltage limo
The actual mean direct voltage at zero direct current.
1.5.27.6 Transition current (lEV 551-06-21, modified)
The mean direct current of a convertor connection when the direct current of the commu-
ttent when decreasing the current.
tating groups becomes intermi
NOTE - At the transition current value, the voltage/current characteristic bends. Transition current can be obtained, for
example in the case of back e.m.f. load because the inductan ce of the d.c. circuit cannot maintain direct current over
interphase transformer connection, because the direct current decreases below the critical
the entire period or in case of
transformer becomes ineffective.
value where the interphase
Direct voltage
Udoo-
Total voltage regulation
Direct current
Transition
IdN
current
Figure 3 - Voltage regulation
Terms used in connection with direct voltage regulation
1.5.28
1.5.28.1 Direct voltage regulation (lEV 551-06-22, modified)
The difference between the conventional no-load direct voltage and the direct voltage at
rated direct current, at the same current delay angle, excluding the correction effect of
stabilizing means, if any.
NOTES
1 If voltage stabilizing means are used, refer also to 1.5.28.2.
2 The nature of the d.c. circuit (for example capacitors, back e.m.f. load) may affect the voltage change significantly.
Where this is the case, special consideration may be required.

146-1-1 © IEC -51 -
1.5.28.2 Inherent direct voltage regulation (lEV 551-06-23, modified)
The direct voltage regulation excluding the effect of the a.c. system impedance and the
correcting effect of voltage stabilizing means, if any (see 3.2.3).
1.5.28.3 Total direct voltage regulation (lEV 551-06-24, modified)
The direct voltage regulation including the effect o
...