HARMONIC CONTROL UNVEILED: A COMPREHENSIVE EXPLORATION OF THD AND MODULATION INDEX IN SINUSOIDAL PWM, MULTIPLE PWM, AND SINGLE PWM ACROSS VARIED INPUT FREQUENCIES IN POWER ELECTRONICS

Abstract

In the realm of variable input frequencies and modulation, this literature investigates three distinct Pulse Width Modulation (PWM) techniques: Sinusoidal PWM, Multiple PWM (or Selective Harmonic Elimination PWM - SHE- PWM), and Single PWM (or Carrier-Based PWM). Focusing on essential performance metrics like Total Harmonic Distortion (THD) and Modulation Index, the study delves into the unique characteristics of each approach. Sinusoidal PWM generates a uniform output resembling a sinusoid by comparing a reference sinusoidal waveform with a carrier waveform. Multiple PWM selectively alters power components to eliminate specific harmonics. Single PWM, meanwhile, constructs a PWM signal by comparing a reference signal with a carrier waveform. Employing hardware or virtual platforms for experimentation, the study explores these PWM methods under various input frequencies, measuring and analyzing resulting THD and Modulation Index values. The outcomes elucidate the strengths and weaknesses of each approach, aiding in the selection of the most suitable PWM technique based on harmonic performance and modulation requirements across diverse input frequencies. This research contributes valuable insights for power electronics practitioners and academicians, facilitating informed choices for applications necessitating precise harmonic control and modulation performance over a wide frequency range.