Novel active power filter for high-voltage power distribution systems application

In this paper, a novel principle of an active power filter based on the harmonic impedance control of a transformer is proposed for high-voltage power distribution systems application. A linear transformer with multiple secondary windings is adopted. The primary winding is shunted with harmonic-producing loads, while the secondary windings are connected with inverters. The primary harmonic current is detected and then tracked by the inverters with fixed compensation coefficient. When the harmonic current compensation condition is satisfied, the transformer can really exhibit nearly zero impedance to harmonic current and primary self-impedance to fundamental current. As a result, the harmonic currents in power systems can be led to flow into the transformer branch. The operation principle, the control scheme, and the harmonic current detection method are discussed in detail. Finally, simulated waveforms and experimental results are presented to verify the effectiveness of the active power filter.