What is an active front end (AFE) or regen inverter?

An Active Front End (AFE) or Regen Inverter not only reduces harmonics, but also provides other benefits that can reduce costs. Rather than using diodes in the rectifier to convert the incoming AC power to DC, an active front end uses insulated gate bipolar transistors (IGBTs).

What is a high frequency inverter?

High-frequency inverters generate the AC output waveform by switching power devices at frequencies much higher than the output frequency. Some key characteristics: They contrast with line-frequency inverters operating nearer to the AC output frequency. [Diagram] The inverter bridge contains power switches like IGBTs or MOSFETs.

What is an active front end AFE drive?

An active front end AFE drive replaces the diodes in the rectifier with IGBTs, which significantly reduce harmonics and allow regenerated power to be fed back to the supply. Another benefit of active front end drives is their ability to handle regenerative power.

What are common high-frequency inverter circuit configurations?

Common high-frequency inverter circuit configurations include: Key design factors for high-frequency inverters: Switching frequency – Higher frequency allows smaller filter components but increases losses. Optimize based on tradeoffs. Filter components – Smaller inductors and capacitors possible at high frequencies. Balance size versus performance.

What is an active front end rectifier?

Compared with the traditional diode rectifiers, the Active Front End allows for bidirectional power flow (i.e., regenerative power injection to the grid) and also actively shapes the current waveform to achieve low total harmonic distortion (THD) and high power factor.

What is an active front end?

Given its bidirectional nature, the Active Front End is widely used in modern power systems as an interface between the AC grid and other converters, in applications such as variable-speed drives or fast electric vehicle chargers.