Department of Electrical & Electronic Engineering

Power Electronics and Drives Lab – EEE332L

Semester: Summer 2023
Faculty: Istiak Ahmed
Submitted By: Partho Prosad
Registration ID: 2022371
Section: 02
Experiment Report: 05
Experiment Title: Study on Single and Three Phase
Controlled Rectifier.
Submission Date: August 20, 2023
Objectives:
 To analyze the performance of the single and three phase-controlled
rectifiers.
 To understand the application of the controlled rectifier.
Software:
 PSIM/PROTEOUS/MATLAB

Theory:
A controlled rectifier is an electronic circuit that converts alternating current (AC)
to direct current (DC) with the ability to control the output voltage or current. This
control is achieved by adjusting the firing angle of semiconductor devices, such as
thyristors or silicon-controlled rectifiers (SCRs), used in the rectification process.
Controlled rectifiers are commonly used in applications where variable DC voltage
or current is required, such as motor drives, battery charging systems, and power
supplies. Let's delve into the details of single-phase and three-phase controlled
rectifiers:

Single-Phase Controlled Rectifier:

i. Half-Wave Controlled Rectifier: In a single-phase half-wave controlled

rectifier, a single thyristor is used to control the flow of current through the
load. The thyristor conducts current only when it is triggered by a gate
signal. The output DC voltage is obtained by allowing only a portion of the
AC input waveform to pass through.
ii. Full-Wave Controlled Rectifier: In a single-phase full-wave controlled
rectifier, two thyristors are used in a bridge configuration. By controlling the
firing angles of the thyristors, both halves of the AC input waveform can be
rectified, resulting in a smoother DC output.

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Three-Phase Controlled Rectifier:

i. Three-Phase Half-Wave Controlled Rectifier: This configuration involves

three thyristors, one in each phase, to control the rectification process. By
triggering the thyristors at different firing angles, the output DC voltage can
be controlled.
ii. Three-Phase Full-Wave Controlled Rectifier: In this setup, six thyristors
are used to create a bridge configuration for each phase. By controlling the
firing angles of these thyristors, all three phases of the AC input can be
rectified, providing a smoother DC output compared to the half-wave
configuration.

The main parameter that can be controlled in these rectifiers is the firing angle of
the thyristors. The firing angle is the delay between the point where the AC input
waveform crosses zero and the point at which the thyristor is triggered to conduct.
By adjusting this firing angle, the average output voltage can be controlled,
allowing for control over the output power delivered to the load.

Applications of Controlled Rectifiers:

 Variable Speed Drives: Controlled rectifiers are used in motor drives to

vary the speed of AC motors by controlling the output DC voltage.
 Battery Charging: They are employed in battery charging systems, where
the charging current can be controlled to optimize the battery charging
process.

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  Electroplating and Electrowinning: Controlled rectifiers are used in
electrochemical processes such as electroplating and electrowinning, where
precise control of current is essential.
 Uninterruptible Power Supplies (UPS): Controlled rectifiers can be part of
the power conversion process in UPS systems, ensuring a stable DC voltage
output even during AC power disturbances.
 HVDC Transmission Systems: In high-voltage direct current (HVDC)
transmission systems, controlled rectifiers are used to convert AC power
from the grid to DC power for efficient long-distance transmission.
 Renewable Energy Systems: Controlled rectifiers are used in grid-tied
renewable energy systems, such as solar inverters, to convert the generated
AC power to DC for feeding into the grid.

Controlled rectifiers play a crucial role in various industrial and commercial

applications, providing efficient and controllable conversion of AC to DC power.
Their ability to regulate output voltage and current makes them versatile tools for a
wide range of electronic and electrical systems.

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Lab Work:
Single-Phase Half-Wave Controlled
Rectifier:
1. Measure and show input, output voltage and current for
R and RL load. (Take last three digits of your ID) [ For
firing angle of 45 degree ][ Take L = 0.1H].

Ans:

Student ID: 2022371

Vin = Last three digits of my ID = 371 V.

R load:

Fig: Single-Phase Half-Wave Controlled Rectifier (R Load)

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Fig. Input Voltage Waveform for R Load

Fig. Output Voltage Waveform for R Load

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Fig. Input Current Waveform for R Load

Fig. Output Current Waveform for R Load

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Student ID: 2022371
Vin = Last three digits of my ID = 371 V.

RL load:

Fig: Single-Phase Half-Wave Controlled Rectifier (RL Load)

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Fig. Input Voltage Waveform for RL Load

Fig. Output Voltage Waveform for RL Load

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Fig. Input Current Waveform for RL Load

Fig. Output Current Waveform for RL Load

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2. Observe the output voltages by changing various firing
angles (30, 45, 90) of the Thyristors used in the
controlled rectifiers. Provide the input voltage and
output voltage wave shape for each variation. [For R
and RL load]
Ans:

R load (Firing Angles: 30°)

Fig: Single-Phase Half-Wave Controlled Rectifier R load (Firing Angles: 30°)

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Fig. Input Voltage Waveform for R load (Firing Angles: 30°)

Fig. Output Voltage Waveform for R load (Firing Angles: 30°)

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 R load (Firing Angles: 45°)

Fig: Single-Phase Half-Wave Controlled Rectifier R load (Firing Angles: 45°)

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Fig. Input Voltage Waveform for R load (Firing Angles: 45°)

Fig. Output Voltage Waveform for R load (Firing Angles: 45°)

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 R load (Firing Angles: 90°)

Fig: Single-Phase Half-Wave Controlled Rectifier R load (Firing Angles: 90°)

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Fig. Input Voltage Waveform for R load (Firing Angles: 90°)

Fig. Output Voltage Waveform for R load (Firing Angles: 90°)

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 RL load (Firing Angles: 30°)

Fig: Single-Phase Half-Wave Controlled Rectifier RL load (Firing Angles: 30°)

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Fig. Input Voltage Waveform for RL load (Firing Angles: 30°)

Fig. Output Voltage Waveform for RL load (Firing Angles: 30°)

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 RL load (Firing Angles: 45°)

Fig: Single-Phase Half-Wave Controlled Rectifier RL load (Firing Angles: 45°)

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Fig. Input Voltage Waveform for RL load (Firing Angles: 45°)

Fig. Output Voltage Waveform for RL load (Firing Angles: 45°)

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 RL load (Firing Angles: 90°)

Fig: Single-Phase Half-Wave Controlled Rectifier RL load (Firing Angles: 90°)

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Fig. Input Voltage Waveform for RL load (Firing Angles: 90°)

Fig. Output Voltage Waveform for RL load (Firing Angles: 90°)

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3. Calculate [For firing angle of 45 and 90] [ For R load
only]
a. Rectification Efficiency
b. Power Efficiency
c. Input Current THD
d. Input Power Factor
e. Form Factor
f. Ripple Factor

R load (Firing Angles: 45° & 90°)

Ans:

R load

Power Input Input

Commutatio Rectificatio Form Ripple
efficienc curren power
n angle n efficiency factor factor
y t THD factor

1.0657 0.6740 1.7553 1.4426962

45° 0.383983 0.324530703
6 4 8 9
1.3604 2.2227 1.9850595
90° 0.224725 0.202410248 0.4995
5 1 6

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4. Comment on the performance of the converter on the
basis of variation of firing angle.

Ans:

The performance of a converter, such as a thyristor-based or phase-controlled

rectifier, can be significantly affected by the variation of the firing angle. The
firing angle determines the point in each AC half-cycle at which the thyristors are
triggered to conduct current, thereby controlling the output voltage and current
characteristics of the converter. Here's how the performance varies with the change
in the firing angle:

 Output Voltage and Current: The firing angle directly affects the conduction
angle of the thyristors. A smaller firing angle results in a larger conduction
angle, allowing more current to flow through the load. This increases the
average output voltage and current. Conversely, a larger firing angle reduces
the conduction angle, resulting in lower average output voltage and current.

 Output Voltage Ripple: A lower firing angle leads to reduced output voltage
ripple, as the thyristors conduct over a larger portion of the AC cycle,
smoothing out the output waveform. On the other hand, a higher firing angle
increases voltage ripple due to shorter conduction intervals.

 Harmonics and Distortion: Lower firing angles can cause higher harmonic
content in the output current and voltage waveform due to the increased
overlap with the AC input waveform. Higher harmonics can lead to
increased distortion and affect the quality of the output waveform.

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  Power Factor: A controlled firing angle can be used to improve the power
factor of the converter. Adjusting the firing angle can align the current
waveform more closely with the voltage waveform, resulting in a better
power factor and reduced reactive power consumption.

 Efficiency: The efficiency of the converter is influenced by the firing angle.

Operating with a smaller firing angle increases average output voltage and
current, potentially improving overall efficiency. However, it also leads to
higher losses in the thyristors and other components due to increased
conduction time.

 Voltage Control: The firing angle is a primary method of controlling the

output voltage of the converter. By adjusting the firing angle, you can
regulate the output voltage within a certain range.

 Stability and Control: Extreme variations in the firing angle can lead to
instability in the converter operation. Rapid and large changes in the firing
angle can cause transient effects and impact the overall stability of the
system.

In summary, the performance of a converter is closely tied to the firing angle

setting. Engineers must carefully choose the firing angle based on the desired
output characteristics, system requirements, and efficiency considerations.
Balancing between voltage control, current characteristics, harmonic content, and
overall efficiency is essential to achieve the desired converter performance.

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Single-Phase Full-Wave Controlled
Rectifier:
1. Measure and show input, output voltage and current
for R and RL load. (Take last three digits of your ID)
[ For firing angle of 45 degree ][ Take L = 0.1H].

Ans:

Student ID: 2022371

Vin = Last three digits of my ID = 371 V.

R load:

Fig: Single-Phase Full-Wave Controlled Rectifier (R Load)

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Fig. Input & Output Voltage Waveform for R Load

Fig. Input & Output Current Waveform for R Load

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Ans:

Student ID: 2022371

Vin = Last three digits of my ID = 371 V.

RL load:

Fig: Single-Phase Full-Wave Controlled Rectifier (RL Load)

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Fig. Input & Output Voltage Waveform for RL Load

Fig. Input & Output Current Waveform for RL Load

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 2. Observe the output voltages by changing various
firing angles (30, 45, 90) of the Thyristors used in the
controlled rectifiers. Provide the input voltage and
output voltage wave shape for each variation. [For R
and RL load]
Ans:

R load (Firing Angles: 30°)

Fig: Single-Phase Full-Wave Controlled Rectifier R load (Firing Angles: 30°)

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Fig. Input & Output Voltage Waveform for R load (Firing Angles: 30°)

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 R load (Firing Angles: 45°)

Fig: Single-Phase Full-Wave Controlled Rectifier R load (Firing Angles: 45°)

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Fig. Input & Output Voltage Waveform for R load (Firing Angles: 45°)

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 R load (Firing Angles: 90°)

Fig: Single-Phase Full-Wave Controlled Rectifier R load (Firing Angles: 90°)

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Fig. Input & Output Voltage Waveform for R load (Firing Angles: 90°)

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 RL load (Firing Angles: 30°)

Fig: Single-Phase Full-Wave Controlled Rectifier RL load (Firing Angles: 30°)

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Fig. Input & Output Voltage Waveform for RL load (Firing Angles: 30°)

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 RL load (Firing Angles: 45°)

Fig: Single-Phase Full-Wave Controlled Rectifier RL load (Firing Angles: 45°)

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Fig. Input & Output Voltage Waveform for RL load (Firing Angles: 45°)

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 RL load (Firing Angles: 90°)

Fig: Single-Phase Full-Wave Controlled Rectifier RL load (Firing Angles: 90°)

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Fig. Input & Output Voltage Waveform for RL load (Firing Angles: 90°)

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 3. Calculate [For firing angle of 45° and 90°] [ For R load
only]

a. Rectification Efficiency
b. Power Efficiency
c. Input Current THD
d. Input Power Factor
e. Form Factor
f. Ripple Factor

R load (Firing Angles: 45° & 90°)

Ans:

R load

Input Input
Commutation Power Rectificatio Form Ripple
current power
angle efficiency n efficiency factor factor
THD factor

45° 0.383983 0.324530703 1.06576 0.67404 1.75538 1.44269629

90° 0.224725 0.202410248 1.36045 0.4995 2.22271 1.98505956

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 4. Comment on the performance of the converter on the
basis of variation of firing angle.

Ans:

Sure, I'd be happy to comment on the performance of a Single-Phase Full-Wave

Controlled Rectifier (also known as a single-phase bridge rectifier) based on the
variation of the firing angle. This type of rectifier uses thyristors to control the
conversion of AC voltage to DC voltage in a single-phase system.

 Output Voltage and Current Regulation: In a single-phase full-wave

controlled rectifier, as the firing angle is decreased, the conduction angle of
the thyristors increases, leading to a larger portion of the AC input voltage
being utilized. This results in higher average output voltage and current,
offering better control over the rectification process.

 Output Voltage Ripple: A lower firing angle leads to reduced output voltage
ripple because the thyristors conduct for a longer duration during each half-
cycle of the AC input waveform. This reduces the variation between the
peak and trough of the output voltage.

 Harmonic Content: A decrease in the firing angle increases the overlap

between the current waveform and the input voltage waveform, potentially
causing higher harmonic distortion in the output current. This can result in
increased distortion and potentially affect the performance of other
connected equipment in the system.
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 Power Factor Improvement: Adjusting the firing angle allows control over
the phase shift between the input voltage and current waveforms. By
optimizing the firing angle, the power factor of the rectifier can be
improved, which is crucial for minimizing reactive power consumption and
enhancing the overall efficiency of the system.

 Efficiency: Operating with a lower firing angle can lead to higher average
output voltage and current, which may improve the efficiency of the
rectification process. However, it's important to note that a lower firing
angle also increases the conduction losses in the thyristors and other
components, potentially offsetting some of the efficiency gains.

 Voltage Control: The firing angle is a primary means of controlling the

average output voltage in a single-phase full-wave controlled rectifier. By
varying the firing angle, the DC voltage level can be adjusted within a
certain range to meet the desired output requirements.

 Stability and Transients: Rapid and large variations in the firing angle can
lead to transient effects, causing fluctuations in the output voltage and
current. Careful control of the firing angle is essential to maintain stable and
reliable rectifier operation.

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In summary, the performance of a Single-Phase Full-Wave Controlled Rectifier is
significantly influenced by the variation of the firing angle. Engineers need to
strike a balance between output voltage control, current characteristics, harmonic
content, power factor improvement, and overall efficiency. The appropriate
selection of the firing angle depends on the specific application requirements and
the trade-offs between these performance factors.

5. Explain the scope of applications of controlled

rectifiers.

Ans:

Controlled rectifiers, also known as phase-controlled rectifiers or thyristor

rectifiers, have a wide range of applications due to their ability to control the
conversion of AC voltage to DC voltage. By manipulating the firing angle of
thyristors, controlled rectifiers offer precise control over output voltage, current,
and power factor. Here are some key areas where controlled rectifiers find
application:

 DC Power Supplies: One of the primary applications of controlled rectifiers

is in DC power supplies. They are used to convert AC power from the grid
into controlled DC power for various industrial and electronic systems. This
includes applications in electroplating, anodizing, battery charging, and
electrochemical processes.

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 Motor Drives: Controlled rectifiers are used in variable speed motor drives
and traction systems. By controlling the amplitude and phase angle of the
output voltage, they enable speed and torque control of DC motors, making
them suitable for applications such as conveyor systems, elevators, and
industrial machinery.

 Uninterruptible Power Supplies (UPS): In UPS systems, controlled rectifiers

are used to convert AC power to DC power for charging the battery bank.
This ensures a stable and regulated DC voltage source for backup power
during grid outages.

 HVDC Transmission: High Voltage Direct Current (HVDC) transmission

systems use controlled rectifiers to convert AC power into high voltage DC
power for efficient long-distance power transmission with minimal losses.

 Induction Heating: Controlled rectifiers are used in induction heating

systems to provide controlled DC current to the induction coils, allowing
precise and efficient heating of metals for various industrial processes, such
as heat treatment and metal hardening.

 Welding Equipment: Controlled rectifiers play a crucial role in welding

machines, where they convert AC power into controlled DC power for
electric arc welding. The ability to adjust the output current allows for fine-
tuned control over the welding process.

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  Electrolytic Processes: Industries like electroplating, metal refining, and
electrowinning use controlled rectifiers to regulate the current and voltage
during electrolytic processes. This ensures accurate deposition and desired
material properties.

 Power Factor Correction: Controlled rectifiers can be employed for power

factor correction in industries to improve the power factor of the system,
thereby reducing reactive power consumption and energy costs.

 Battery Chargers: Controlled rectifiers are used in battery charging systems

for electric vehicles, renewable energy systems, and telecommunications
equipment. The controlled charging process ensures optimal battery
performance and longevity.

These applications highlight the versatility of controlled rectifiers in various

industries where controlled conversion of AC to DC power is essential. The ability
to manipulate output parameters through the adjustment of firing angles makes
controlled rectifiers a valuable tool for optimizing system performance and energy
efficiency.

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Three-Phase Controlled Rectifier :
1. Measure and show input, output voltage and current
for R load. (Take last three digits of your ID) [ For
firing angle of 45°]

Ans: R load:

Fig: Three-Phase Controlled Rectifier (R Load)

Input, output voltage and current for R load:

Firing angle of 45
Input voltage (Vin) (single phase) 155.56 V
Input current (Iin) (single phase) 4.71 A
Output voltage (Vout) 236.78 V
Output current (Iout) 41.54 A

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 Va Vb Vc

300

200

100

-100

-200

-300

Ia Ib Ic

40

20

-20

-40

0 0.02 0.04 0.06 0.08 0.1

Time (s)

Fig. Input voltage & current waveform for 45 firing angle (R load)

Vout

400

300

200

100

-100

Iout

40

30

20

10

-10

0 0.02 0.04 0.06 0.08 0.1

Time (s)

Fig. Output voltage & current waveform for 45 firing angle (R load)

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 LAB REPORT RUBRICS

Student Name Partho Prosad Student ID 2022371

Course Title Power Electronics and Drives Lab Course Code EEE332L
Term Spring Summer Autumn Year 2023
Experiment Study on Single and Three Phase Controlled Experiment
05
Name Rectifier. Number
Submission
20/08/2023 Due Date 20/08/2023
Date
Tick () on the appropriate box (any one from 1 to 5)
Rubrics (weight) Accomplished Intermediate Developing Intermediate Novice
(5) (4) (3) (2) (1)
Understanding Defined experiment Intermediate Defined Intermediate Defined
experiment’s requirements and between experiment between novice experiment
requirements assume circuit developing and requirements and and developing. requirements
(5%) specifications, if any, accomplished. assume circuit and assume
properly. specifications, if circuit
any, moderately. specifications, if
any, poorly.

Building Circuit Conducted Intermediate Conducted Intermediate Conducted

and conducting experiment properly between experiment between novice experiment
experiment (5%) by building developing & moderately by and developing. poorly by
simulation circuit accomplished. building building
using required simulation circuit simulation
specification. using required circuit using
specification. required
specification.

Result and Analyzed and Intermediate The results are Intermediate The results are
analysis (5%) interpreted the between analyzed to some between novice analyzed poorly
results properly developing and extent according and developing. due to
using the converter accomplished. to specified incomplete
parameters. requirements. simulation.

Remarks / Answered the given Intermediate Answered Intermediate Answered the

Answering questions correctly between partially the between novice given questions
Question (5%) and describe the developing and given questions and developing. incorrectly and
remarks properly. accomplished. and describe the describe the
remarks remarks poorly.
moderately.

Sub Total
Deduction for late
submission / any
other issue
Total (20%)

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