What does this research mean for the field?

The power loss calculation tool for N-level half-bridge sub-module modular multilevel converters enables accurate and rapid estimation of conduction and switching losses, facilitating holistic design optimization for offshore wind energy applications. Novelty: ClaimNovelty.METHODOLOGICAL. Consensus alignment: ConsensusAlignment.NEUTRAL.

What question did this study set out to answer?

The aim is to develop a tool for calculating power losses in a half-bridge sub-module modular multilevel converter.

March 16, 2026Open Access

Power Loss Calculation Tool for N-level Half-bridge Sub-module Modular Multilevel Converter used for Offshore Wind Energy

Key Points

The aim is to develop a tool for calculating power losses in a half-bridge sub-module modular multilevel converter.
Developed a semi-analytic approach for steady-state behaviour estimation
Calculated conduction and switching losses across various user specifications
Verified performance using a detailed PLECS model of the converter
Tool achieves less than 5% error rate for both conduction and switching losses
Facilitates holistic design optimization of the modular multilevel converter

Abstract

This paper presents a power loss calculation tool for a half-bridge sub-module (HBSM) modular multi-level converter (MMC). The tool can calculate both conduction and switching losses for an N-level HBSM-MMC for a range of user specifications. A semi-analytic approach is used to estimate the steady-state behaviour to accelerate the calculations. The speed and accuracy of this tool enables holistic design optimisation of the MMC. The tool’s performance is verified using a detailed PLECS model of the converter and the error rate for both conduction and switching loss is within 5%.

Power Loss Calculation Tool for N-level Half-bridge Sub-module Modular Multilevel Converter used for Offshore Wind Energy

Key Points

Abstract

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