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Cycloconverter is a frequency converter from one level to another, that can change AC power from
one frequency to AC power at another frequency. Here, an AC-AC conversion process is done
with a frequency change. Hence it is also referred as frequency changer. Normally, the output
frequency is less than the input frequency. The implementation of the control circuit is complicated
due to the huge number of SCRs. The Microcontroller or DSP or microprocessor is used in control
circuits.
CycloConverter
A cyclo-converter can achieve frequency conversion in one stage and ensures that voltage and the
frequencies are controllable. In addition, the need to use commutation circuits is not necessary
because it utilizes natural commutation. Power transfer within a Cycloconverter occurs in two
directions.
There are two types of Cycloconverters
Step Up Cycloconverter:
These types use normal commutation and give an output at higher frequencies than that of the
input.
Step Down Cycloconverter:
This type uses forced commutation and results in an output with a frequency lower than that of the
input.The cyclo-converters are further classified into three categories as discussed below.
Single phase to Single-phase
This Cycloconverter has two full wave converters connected back to back. If one converter is
operating the other one is disabled, no current passes through it.
Three-phase to Single-phase
This Cycloconverter operates in four quadrants that are (+V, +I) and (−V, −I) being the
rectification modes and (+V, −I) and (−V, +I) being the inversion modes.
Three-phase to Three-phase
This Cycloconverter is majorly used in AC machine systems that are operating on three phase
induction and synchronous machines.
Introduction of Single Phase to Single Phase Cycloconverter
using Thyristors
The Cycloconverter has four Thyristors divided into two Thyristor banks, i.e, a positive bank and
a negative bank of each. When the positive current flows in the load, the output voltage is
controlled by phase control of the two positive array Thyristors whereas, the negative array
Thyristors are kept off and vice versa when negative current flows in the load.
The perfect output waveforms for a sinusoidal load current and various load phase angles is shown
in Figure below. It is important to keep the non-conducting Thyristor array off at all times,
otherwise, the mains could be short circuited via the two Thyristor arrays, resulting in waveform
distortion and possible device failure from the shorting current.
A major control problem of the cyclo-converter is how to swap between banks in the shortest
possible time to avoid distortion while ensuring the two banks do not conduct at the same time.
A common addition to the power circuit that removes the requirement to keep one bank off is to
place a center tapped inductor called a circulating current inductor between the outputs of the two
banks.Both banks can now conduct together without shorting the mains. Also, the circulating
current in the inductor keeps both banks operating all the time, resulting in improved output
waveforms.
Design of Cycloconverter using Thyristors
This project is designed to control the speed of a single phase induction motor in three steps by
using a Cycloconverter technique by Thyristors. An A.C Motors have the great advantages of
being relatively inexpensive and very reliable.
DC power supply of 5V, Microcontroller (AT89S52/AT89C51), Optoisolator (MOC3021), Single phase
induction motor, Pushbuttons, SCR, LM358 IC, Resistors, Capacitors.
Thus F/2 is delivered to the load while switch 1 is closed. Similarly, for F/3 the conduction takes
place for 30ms in the 1st bridge and next 30ms from the next bridge, such that a total time period
of 1 cycle comes to 60ms which in turn in F/3 while switch -2 is operated.
The Fundamental frequency of 50Hz is available by triggering on a pair from the 1st bridge for 1st
10ms and for the next 10ms from the next bridge while both the switches are kept in “OFF”
condition. The reverse current flowing in the gates of the SCR’s are Opto – isolator output.
Applications of Cycloconverter
Applications include Controlling the speed of AC machines like It is mainly used in electric
traction, AC motors having variable speed and induction heating.
Synchronous Motors
Mill Drives
Ship propulsions
Grinding Mills