Arm integrated double capacitor submodule for modular multilevel solid-state transformers with DC short-circuit fault ride-through capability

Modular multilevel converter-based solid-state transformers (MMC-SST) usually use the input series output parallel structure or the dual active bridge (DAB) structure. These two structures suffer from low power supply reliability and high economic costs, respectively. Therefore, based on hybrid frequency modulation, this paper proposes an arm integrated double capacitor submodule (AIDCSM)-type MMC-SST topology. This topology effectively reduces the number of switching devices by integrating the submodule arms, while enabling the topology to possess DC short-circuit fault ride-through capability. When compared to the DAB-type MMC-SST with half-bridge submodules, the proposed AIDCSM-type MMC-SST saves 2/5 switching devices and 1/2 high-frequency transformers, and enables uninterrupted operation under DC short-circuit faults. At the same time, the control strategy of the proposed AIDCSM-type MMC-SST is thoroughly investigated under both normal operating and DC short-circuit conditions. Simulation and experimental results demonstrate the correctness and effectiveness of the proposed topology and control method.