energies

Article
An Improved LCL Filter Design in Order to Ensure
Stability without Damping and Despite Large Grid
Impedance Variations
Marwa Ben Said-Romdhane 1, *, Mohamed Wissem Naouar 1 , Ilhem Slama Belkhodja 1
and Eric Monmasson 2
1 Université de Tunis El Manar, Ecole Nationale d’Ingénieurs de Tunis, LR 11 ES 15, Laboratoire des Systèmes
Electriques, BP 37-1002 Tunis le Belvédère, Tunisie; wissem.naouar@enit.utm.tn (M.W.N.);
ilhem.slamabelkhodja@gmail.com (I.S.B.)
2 Laboratoire des Systèmes et Applications des Technologies de l’Information et de l’Energie,
University of Cergy-Pontoise, 33 bd du Port, 95000 Cergy-Pontoise, France; eric.monmasson@u-cergy.fr
* Correspondence: marwa.bensaid87@gmail.com; Tel.: +216-71-874-700

Academic Editor: Miquel Castilla

Received: 4 November 2016; Accepted: 9 February 2017; Published: 9 March 2017

Abstract: With the smart grid revolution, there is a growing interest in the use of power converters
associated to LCL filters to interface between the main utility grid and loads or renewable energy
sources. LCL filters are commonly used mainly due to their low cost and high filtering performances.
To achieve these performances, it is necessary to meticulously pick out the LCL filter parameters,
taking into account grid code requirements and grid configuration and/or conditions. Several
methodologies for LCL filter design have been presented and discussed in the literature. The main
goal of this paper is to propose a simple, robust and systematic design methodology for LCL filter
parameter tuning. The considered design methodology is aimed to overcome the shortcomings of
classical design methodologies, namely, stable operation under different grid configurations and
conditions. Compared to previous works, the proposed design methodology allows the achievement
of robust LCL filter design with regard to large grid impedance variations without the use of any
damping method. Also, it takes into account accuracy of capacitor standard values and proposes a
simple design method for the converter side inductor that avoids saturation problems. An example
of LCL filter design is presented and discussed. The obtained filter parameters were firstly tested
using a Matlab-Simulink software tool. After that, they were tested through the development of
an experimental set-up. The obtained simulation and experimental results show the reliability and
efficiency of the proposed design methodology.

Keywords: LCL filter; design methodology; grid connected power converter; total harmonic
distortion factor (THD); weak grid conditions

1. Introduction
For several industrial applications, such as adjustable speed drives or renewable energy sources, a
three-phase grid connected converter is required to control the power flow with the grid. For adjustable
speed drives, the use of grid connected converters is an interesting solution to ensure bidirectional
power flow since regenerative operation is frequently achieved. Moreover, this solution provides
many features like low current harmonic distortion factor (THD) and the possibility to work with unity
power factors. For renewable energy sources, like wind turbines and photovoltaic systems, the use
of grid connected converters became a key solution for efficient control of active and reactive power
injected to the grid [1,2].

Energies 2017, 10, 336; doi:10.3390/en10030336 www.mdpi.com/journal/energies

Energies 2017, 10, 336 2 of 19

With the smart grid revolution, modern systems based on grid connected converters must
meet new grid code requirements [3,4]. For this purpose, companies that produce these systems
tend to have appropriate solutions to comply with different related standards and their ongoing
changes in the near future. Among considered solutions, LCL filters are used in association with grid
connected power converters in order to limit the current harmonic injection due to semiconductor
switching. This solution allows reductions in cost as well as size and encumbrance compared to
conventional L filter-based solutions [5–7]. However, the use of LCL filters can lead to resonance and
instability problems since their safe operation can be affected by the grid impedance value, which
varies according to grid configuration and conditions (weak or stiff grid). Thus, the main challenge of
LCL filter design for grid connected power converters is to ensure stable operation despite large grid
impedance variations.
Several LCL filter design methodologies were presented and discussed in the literature [8–10].
All of them tried to perform efficient tuning of LCL filter parameters according to different constraints.
Among these constraints, there are: the grid current THD value [11], the consumed reactive power [12],
the resonance frequency [13], the maximum current ripple [14], the maximum filter volume and
size [15,16]. However, up to now, only a few research works have tried to provide robust LCL filter
designs available for different grid conditions (weak or stiff grid conditions) characterized by large
grid impedance variations [17]. In fact, the grid impedance varies significantly according to the grid
configuration (low, medium or high voltage lines, wires length . . . ) [18] and conditions (weak or stiff
grid) [19] as well as parallel converters connection [20]. In most cases, the stable operation of LCL filters
is ensured through active damping control [21–26] or by adding passive damping resistors [27–30].
However, according to [31–33], for PI-based current control (with grid current feedback), it is possible
to place the resonance frequency in a stable region where damping is not required. Hence, by placing
the resonance frequency variation inside this stable region, the grid current feedback alone is found to
be sufficient for stable operation.
The aim of this paper is to present a simple, robust and systematic LCL filter design methodology.
The proposed design methodology is applied to low power converters and high power ones thanks to
the use of parallel interleaved voltage source converters [34]. While mainly based on [9], it introduces
additional features that allow stable operation without damping. In fact, very large grid impedance
variations and accuracy of filter capacitor parameters are taken into account for the design process.
Accordingly, the resonance problems are avoided and the system stability is ensured even for important
grid impedance changes. This is achieved through an accurate choice of the filter parameters by placing
the resonance frequency, which is a function of grid impedance and filter capacitor, in a stable region
where no damping is required. Moreover, the considered design methodology avoids inductor
saturation problems by accurately computing the current ripples so that the converter side current
does not exceed the inductor saturation current. The proposed design methodology is available for grid
connected power converters controlled through PI-based current controllers and when the grid current
is the used feedback variable. In this work, the grid impedance is assumed to reach up to 13 mH and
each step of the considered design methodology is detailed, justified and discussed. To summarize,
compared to previous related works, the proposed design methodology considers the following
constraints that may influence the system stability: (1) large grid inductance variations, overestimated
to 13 mH; (2) accuracy of filter capacitor, overestimated to ±5%; (3) LCL filter inductor saturation
problems; consequently, the filter parameters are designed so that, even under the abovementioned
constraints, the two following points are ensured: (1) system stability without damping; (2) high
filtering performances (low harmonic attenuation rate δ and grid current THD value less than 5%).
This paper is organized as follows: firstly, in Section 2, the mathematical model of an LCL filter
is presented. Then, in Section 3, the step-by-step LCL filter design methodology aimed to achieve
robust tuning of the LCL filter parameters is detailed and discussed. After that, Section 4 presents a
case study for LCL filter design with simulation results achieved under Matlab-Simulink software
tool. Finally, in Section 5, the considered design methodology was verified through experimental tests.
The obtained experimental results are quite similar to those of simulation and prove effectiveness of
the used design methodology.
Energies 2017, 10, 336 3 of 20

tests. The obtained experimental results are quite similar to those of simulation and prove
effectiveness
Energies 2017, 10,of
336the used design methodology. 3 of 19

2. LCL Filter Mathematical Model

2. LCL Filter Mathematical Model
The power circuit of a three phase grid connected power converter is presented in Figure 1a. As
depicted The inpower circuit the
this figure, of aLCL three phase
filter gridto
is used connected
interface power
between converter
the grid is andpresented
the power in converter.
Figure 1a.
As depicted in this figure, the LCL filter is used to interface between the grid
Vg(a,b,c) (respectively i2(a,b,c)) refer to the grid voltage vector components (respectively the grid and the power converter.
current
V g (a,b,c) i
vector components) in the stationary reference frame, while Vi(a,b,c) (respectively ii(a,b,c)) refercurrent
(respectively 2(a,b,c) ) refer to the grid voltage vector components (respectively the grid to the
vector components)
components in the stationary
of the output referencevoltage
power converter vectorV(respectively
frame, while i(a,b,c) (respectively ii(a,b,c) ) refer of
the components to the
the
components of the output power converter voltage vector (respectively the components
output power converter current vector) in the stationary reference frame. Li (respectively L2) refer to of the output
power converter current vector) in the stationary reference frame. Li (respectively L2 ) refer to the
the converter side inductor of the LCL filter (respectively the grid side inductor of the LCL filter),
converter side inductor of the LCL filter (respectively the grid side inductor of the LCL filter), while R
while Ri (respectively R2) refer to the internal resistance of the converter side inductor, (respectivelyi
(respectively R2 ) refer to the internal resistance of the converter side inductor, (respectively the internal
the internal resistance of the grid side inductor). Cf refer to the LCL filter capacitor, while Vc(a,b,c)
resistance of the grid side inductor). Cf refer to the LCL filter capacitor, while Vc (a,b,c) (respectively
(respectively ic(a,b,c)) refer to the voltage across the filter capacitor vector components (respectively the
ic (a,b,c) ) refer to the voltage across the filter capacitor vector components (respectively the capacitor
capacitor current vector components) in the stationary reference frame. Lg (respectively Rg) refer to
current vector components) in the stationary reference frame. Lg (respectively Rg ) refer to the inductive
the inductive part of the grid impedance (respectively the resistive part of the gridg impedance),
part of the grid impedance (respectively the resistive part of the grid impedance), while L (respectively
while
g Lg (respectively R g ) refer to the filter grid side inductor in series with the 2grid inductor
R2 ) refer2 to the filter grid2 side inductor in series with the grid inductor (respectively the internal
(respectively the internal resistance of the filter grid side inductor in series with the internal
resistance of the filter grid side inductor in series with the internal resistance of the grid inductor).
resistance of the grid inductor).

is idc Power converter

LCL Filter Grid
ic Sa Sb Sc
iia Li, Ri Vca L2,R2 i2a Lg,Rg Vga
Via iib Vcb i2b Vgb
DC Side Vdc C Vib iic Vcc i2c Vgc
Vic
Sa Sb Sc Cf
ica icb icc
(a)

(R2g,L2g) 1
Vi + ii
Ri+Lis
-
DC/AC ii (Ri,Li) (R2,L2) i2 (Rg,Lg)
Vc 1 ic +
Vdc Cf ic Cfs
Vi Vc Vg -
+ 1
LCL filter Grid Vg i2
(b) - R2g+L2gs (c)

Figure 1. (a) Power circuit of the three phase grid connected power converter with LCL filter; (b) single
Figure 1. (a) Power
phase equivalent circuit
circuit; (c) of the diagram
block three phase grid
of the LCLconnected
filter. power converter with LCL filter; (b)
single phase equivalent circuit; (c) block diagram of the LCL filter.

Figure 1b presents the equivalent single phase representation of the power circuit with LCL filter.
Figure 1b presents the equivalent single phase representation of the power circuit with LCL
According to this figure, the LCL filter equations are as follows:
filter. According to this figure, the LCL filter equations are as follows:
V − Vc
ii i== Vii − Vc (1a)
i sLi + Ri (1a)
sLi + Ri
Vc − Vg
i2 = Vcg − Vg g (1b)
i2 = sLg + Rg (1b)
sL22 + R2 2
ic
Vc = ic (1c)
Vc = sC f (1c)
sC f
Based on Equations (1a)–(1c), the block diagram of the LCL filter is given by Figure 1c. As shown
Based
in this on the
figure, Equations
transfer(1a)–(1c),
function the block
of the LCLdiagram of the
filter is the LCL
ratio filter isthe
between given by current
output Figure 1c. As
i2 and
shown in voltages
the input this figure,
Vi the
andtransfer
Vg . It isfunction
computed of based
the LCL onfilter is the ratio between
the superposition the The
principle. output
firstcurrent
transferi2
and the input
function voltages
is obtained Vi andthe
by setting VgV. It is computed
g input basedAccording
equal to zero. on the superposition
to Equations principle.
(1a)–(1c), itThe first
is given
Energies 2017, 10, 336 4 of 20
Energies 2017, 10, 336 4 of 19

transfer function is obtained by setting the Vg input equal to zero. According to Equations (1a)–(1c),
it is given by (2a). While the second transfer function is obtained by setting the Vi input equal to zero
by (2a). While the second transfer function is obtained by setting the Vi input equal to zero and is
and
given is by
given by Equation
Equation (2b): (2b):
i2 1
i2  F1 = =

g 3 2 g g 1 g g g (2a)
F1 = V=i =0
C L
g f 23 iL s + s C ( L
f g2 iR + Li 2 g+ s (C f R2 Ri +
R ) g Li + L2 ) + R2 g+ Ri g (2a)
Vi Vg =0 V C g 2
f L2 L i s + s C f ( L2 R i + L i R2 ) + s ( C f R2 R i + L i + L2 ) + R2 + R i
2
i2 −(1 + s C f Li + sC f Ri )
i2 F 2 = V = g −(1 + s
2 C L + sC R )

C f L2 Li s + s C f ( L2 Ri + Li R2g ) + fs(Ci f R2g Ri f+ Li i + Lg2 ) + R2g + Ri
g 3 2 (2b)
F2 = g=V = 0 g g g g g g (2b)
Vg V =0 C f L2 L i s3 + s2 C f ( L2 R i + L i R2 ) + s ( C f R2 R i + L i + L2 ) + R2 + R i
i

i
The
The whole
whole transfer
transfer function of the
function of the LCL
LCL filter
filter is
is obtained
obtained through
through superposition
superposition of
of FF1 and
and F
F2 and
1 2 and
is given by the following equation:
is given by the following equation:
Vi + Vg (1 + s 2C f Li + sC f Ri )
i2 =g 3 2
V i+g
Vg (1 +g s2 C f Li +gsC f Ri ) g g (3)
i2 = gC f L2 Li s + s C f g( L2 Ri + Li Rg2 ) + s (C f R2 gRi + Li + L2 ) +g R2 + Rgi (3)
C f L2 L i s3 + s2 C f ( L2 R i + L i R2 ) + s ( C f R2 R i + L i + L2 ) + R2 + R i
The main objective of the LCL filter is to reduce the high-order current harmonics at the used
The main
switching objective
frequency. of the
Figure 2 LCL
shows filter
theisequivalent
to reduce single
the high-order current harmonics
phase representation of theatLCL
the filter
used
switching
power frequency.
circuit for the Figure
n-harmonic2 shows the equivalent
neglecting single effect
the resistors phase andrepresentation
considering ofthat
the LCL filtervoltage
the grid power
circuit for the n-harmonic neglecting the resistors effect and considering that
is an ideal sine wave voltage source. Vn and in are respectively the voltage and current n-harmonic the grid voltage is an ideal
sine wave
components. voltage source. V n and i n are respectively the voltage and current n-harmonic components.

iin Li L2 g i2n
icn
Vin Cf Vgn=0
Vcn
LCL Filter

Figure 2.
Figure Single phase
2. Single phase equivalent
equivalent circuit
circuit with
with LCL
LCL filter
filter at
at the n-harmonic.
the n-harmonic.

For the
then-harmonic
n-harmonic(Figure
(Figure2) 2)
andand based
based on Equation
on Equation (3), neglecting
(3), neglecting the resistors
the resistors effect,
effect, the the
transfer
transfer
functionfunction
betweenbetween
the gridthe grid current
current i2n and ithe
2n and the converter
converter voltage voltage
Vin is Vexpressed
in is expressed by Equation
by Equation (4a).
(4a). According
According to this to this equation,
equation, the LCL thefilterLCL filter resonance
resonance frequency
frequency (that (that corresponds
corresponds to zero
to zero impedance) is
impedance) is given(4b):
given by Equation by Equation (4b):
i2ni 11
H = 2 n ==
H= g g (4a)
(4a)
Vin
V g 3
3
Lg L) 2 )
C f L2 L iss ++s(sL( L+i +
in f 2 i i 2
g
Lg + Li
2 2
ωres==((2
ωres 2ππ ffres ))22 == L2 2g+ Li (4b)
(4b)
res
LLg L C
2L2i Ci f f

Since the LCL filter resonance frequency is much lower than the switching frequency, it is common
Since the LCL filter resonance frequency is much lower than the switching frequency, it is
to consider the capacitor impedance negligible for switching frequency. In this case, the converter
common to consider the capacitor impedance negligible for switching frequency. In this case, the
will only see the impedance of the converter side inductor [35]. Based on this approximation and
converter will only see the impedance of the converter side inductor [35]. Based on this
Figure 2, the transfer function between the converter current iin and the converter voltage Vin can be
approximation and Figure 2, the transfer function between the converter current iin and the converter
approximated as in (5a) [35]. According to Equations (4a) and (5a), the transfer function between the
voltage Vin can be approximated as in (5a) [35]. According to Equations (4a) and (5a), the transfer
grid current i2n and the converter current iin for high frequencies, is given by Equation (5b). At the
function between the grid current i2n and the converter current iin for high frequencies, is given by
switching frequency, the previous equation becomes equal to (5c):
Equation (5b). At the switching frequency, the previous equation becomes equal to (5c):
iin
iin = 11 (5a)
Vin = sLi (5a)
Vin sLi
i2n i2n Vin L
i= i 2 n Vin = Li i (5b)
iin 2n
=
Vin iin = g 2
C L L s + (L + L )
g
(5b)
iin Vin iin C ff Lg22Li is 2 + ( Li +i Lg2 ) 2

 i2sω 
 2
ZLC
 = (5c)
i 
isω |ω 2 − ω 2 | res sω
Energies 2017, 10, 336 5 of 19

2 1
ZLC = g (5d)
L2 C f
2
ωsω = (2π f sω )2 (5e)

3. LCL Filter Design Methodology

The LCL filter design methodology is aimed to meet grid code requirements through efficient
attenuation of high order current harmonic components on the grid side. It requires the following
input data.
- The line-to-line RMS grid voltage Ug ;
- The rated active power of the system P;
- The rated frequency of grid voltage fg ;
- The switching frequency of the converter fsω ;
- The saturation current of the LCL filter inductors Isat .
Then, the LCL filter parameters are tuned according to the following steps.

3.1. Resonance Frequency Condition

According to Equation (4b), the resonance frequency fres depends on:
- The filter inductors Li and L2 ;
- The grid inductor Lg ;
- The filter capacitor Cf .
The filter inductors Li and L2 can be considered constant since their corresponding saturation
current is not exceeded. However, the grid inductor Lg can have a large set of values. Based on [17–20],
the ratio Rg /Xg varies according to the grid configuration (low, medium or high voltage lines, wires
length . . . ) and conditions (weak or stiff grid). It includes also the leakage inductance of the transformer.
The capacitor value has a small error that depends on capacitor accuracy. Low cost capacitors have an
accuracy that typically varies between ±5%. The range of resonance frequency variation is given by
Equation (6) since the resonance frequency is a decreasing function for both Lg and Cf variables:
s s
1 L2 + L gmax + Li 1 L2 + L gmin + Li
f resmin = ≤ f res ( L g , C f ) ≤ f resmax = (6)
2π ( L2 + L gmax ) Li C f max 2π ( L2 + L gmin ) Li C f min

On the other hand, and in order to avoid resonance problems, the resonance frequency fres must
be higher than 10 times the grid frequency fg and less than half of the switching frequency fsω [9]. So,
in order to avoid resonance problems due to large grid impedance variations and capacitor values
errors, Equation (7) must be verified:

10 f g ≤ f resmin ≤ f res ( L g , C f ) ≤ f resmax ≤ f sω /2 (7)

According to [31], when PI-based current control is used with grid current feedback, two critical
frequencies fcmin and fcmax can be defined. The first one (fcmin ) is equal to fsω /6, while the second
one (fcmax ) is equal to fsω /2. In [31], it is concluded that the PI-based current control can be achieved
without active or passive damping if the resonance frequency fres is inside the interval [fcmin , fcmax ] as
shown in Equation (8):
f sω f sω
f cmin = < f res ( L g , C f ) < f cmax = (8)
6 2
Consequently, for PI based grid side current control, the variation range of fres should be placed in
a stable region as shown in Equation (9), which is deduced from (7) and (8):

f sω
10 f g ≤ f cmin < f resmin ≤ f res ( L g , C f ) ≤ f resmax < f cmax = (9)
2
in a stable region as shown in Equation (9), which is deduced from (7) and (8):
f sω
10 f g ≤ fc min < f res min ≤ f res ( Lg , C f ) ≤ f res max < f c max = (9)
2

Energies 2017, 10, 336 6 of 19

3.2. Maximum Value of the Total Inductor
The sum of the LCL filter inductor values should be as small as possible. This makes the losses
3.2. Maximum Value of the Total Inductor
and the voltages drops in the filter negligible. It improves also the speed and the dynamic of the
TheTo
system. sum
thisofpurpose,
the LCLthefilter
totalinductor
inductorvalues should be
value should belower
as small
thanas0.1possible. Thisinmakes
pu as shown the
Equation
losses and theLTBase
(10a), where voltages
is thedrops in the of
base value filter
thenegligible.
total inductor It improves
value andalsoZthe speed
Base is and the
the base dynamic[9].
impedance of
the system. To this purpose, the total inductor value should be lower
Consequently, the maximum value of the total inductor is expressed by Equation (10d): than 0.1 pu as shown in
Equation (10a), where LTBase is the base value of the total inductor value and ZBase is the base
LT max = ( Li + L2 ) max = 10% LTBase
impedance [9]. Consequently, the maximum value of the total inductor is expressed by Equation(10a) (10d):

where= ( Li L+
L Tmax L2 ) Z Base= 10%L TBase
TBase =max
(10a)
(10b)
2π f g
Z
where L TBase = Base (10b)
Ug2 2π f g
Z Base = (10c)
PUg2
ZBase = (10c)
P 2
Ug
 LT max = 10% U2 (10d)
⇒ L Tmax = 10% 2π f g Pg (10d)
2π f g P

3.3. Minimum DC-Link Voltage

For fundamental
fundamentalsignals,
signals,the
theLCL
LCL filter cancan
filter be approximated
be approximated to antoinductor with awith
an inductor value LT equal
a value LT
to the to
equal sumtheof theof
sum two
theinductor values
two inductor Li and
values Li L2 . This
and is mainly
L2. This duedue
is mainly to the factfact
to the that thethe
that LCL filter
LCL is
filter
designed
is designed so that the capacitor
so that has great
the capacitor has impedance value for
great impedance fundamental
value signals. Based
for fundamental on Based
signals. Figure on
1b
and neglecting
Figure the influence
1b and neglecting the of different
influence ofresistors,
different the relationship
resistors, between the
the relationship converter
between and grid
the converter
voltages can be expressed in complex form as follows:
and grid voltages can be expressed in complex form as follows:

VV = V + jL ωg ig2i2
i i= Vgg + jLTT ω (11)
(11)

The previous
The previous equation
equation allows
allows addressing
addressing the the Fresnel
Fresnel diagram
diagram depicted
depicted in
in Figure
Figure 3.3. From
From this
this
diagram, the maximum magnitude of the voltage at the output of the converter
diagram, the maximum magnitude of the voltage at the output of the converter Vimax is given by Vimax is given by
Equation (12):
q 2
Vimax V=i max =V V + ( L(TLmaxωg I 2ω
2 g max + )2 2
gmax Tmax maxg I2max )
q (12)
(12)
whereI 2 maxI2max 2= P 2 P
where = 3 Ug
3 Ug
For the case of Space Vector Modulation SVM process, the required minimum DC-link voltage
VdcminFor the case ofaccording
is computed Space Vector Modulation
to Equation (13):SVM process, the required minimum DC-link voltage
Vdcmin is computed according to Equation (13):
√
Vdcmin = 3Vimax (13)
Vdc min = 3Vi max (13)

y
i2 Vg
x
0
ζ
jLTωgi2
Vi

Figure 3. Fresnel diagram characterizing the operation of the LCL filter.

3.4. Maximum LCL Filter Capacitor Value

Figure 3. Fresnel diagram characterizing the operation of the LCL filter.
The LCL filter capacitor is designed so that its consumption of reactive power is less than λ% of
the rated power P as shown in Equation (14a) [36–38]. In this equation, Qc denotes the reactive power
consumed by the filter capacitor and λ is a positive factor chosen generally equal to or lower than
5% [36–38]. According to Equations (14a) and (14b), the maximum value of the filter capacitor can be
expressed as in Equation (14c):
| Qc | ≤ λ%| P| (14a)
the rated power P as shown in Equation (14a) [36–38]. In this equation, Qc denotes the reactive power
consumed by the filter capacitor and λ is a positive factor chosen generally equal to or lower than 5%
[36–38]. According to Equations (14a) and (14b), the maximum value of the filter capacitor can be
expressed as in Equation (14c):
Energies 2017, 10, 336 7 of 19
Qc ≤ λ % P (14a)

−UUgg2CCf ω
2
=−
QQcc = gg (14b)
(14b)
fω

PP
max =
CCf fmax =5%
5% (14c)
(14c)
π f fgU
22π gU
22
gg

It
It should be noted
should be noted that
that when
whenthe thevalue
valueofofthe
thecapacitor
capacitorisistoo
too low,
low, the
the inductor
inductor values
values must
must be
be too high. For this reason, it is recommended to start with a capacitor value equal to
too high. For this reason, it is recommended to start with a capacitor value equal to one-half of theone-half of
the maximum
maximum value
value andand then,
then, if some
if some of of theconstraints
the constraintscannot
cannotbebesatisfied,
satisfied,increase
increase itit up
up to
to the
the
maximum value.
maximum value.
3.5. Tuning of the Converter Side Inductor
3.5. Tuning of the Converter Side Inductor
The converter side inductor is specifically designed in order to reduce converter current ripple in
The converter side inductor is specifically designed in order to reduce converter current ripple
the worst case. This current ripple is caused by the pulsed voltage generated by the converter. During
in the worst case. This current ripple is caused by the pulsed voltage generated by the converter.
the switching operation, the worst case which leads to a maximum converter current ripple is obtained
During the switching operation, the worst case which leads to a maximum converter current ripple
when the applied converter voltage varies from −Vdc /3 to Vdc /3 [35]. Figure 4 shows a waveform
is obtained when the applied converter voltage varies from −Vdc/3 to Vdc/3 [35]. Figure 4 shows a
example of the converter current ii with regard to the applied converter voltage Vi . In this figure, ton
waveform example of the converter current ii with regard to the applied converter voltage Vi. In this
and toff refer to the time taken by the control signal at high and low logical level, respectively. Tsω is
figure, ton and toff refer to the time taken by the control signal at high and low logical level,
the switching period.
respectively. Tsω is the switching period.
ii

Iimax
Δimax

Iimin
ton toff t
Vconv Tsω

Vdc/3

-Vdc/3

Figure 4. Evolution of the converter current ii and voltage Vi .

Figure 4. Evolution of the converter current ii and voltage Vi.

According
According to to Figure
Figure 4,
4, the
the maximum
maximum converter
converter current
current ripple
ripple and
and the
the converter
converter side
side inductor
inductor
value
value are
are given
given byby Equations
Equations (15a)
(15a) and
and (15b),
(15b), respectively.
respectively. The
The converter
converter side current iiii must
side current must verify
verify
Equation
Equation (16)
(16) in
in order
order to
to avoid
avoid inductor
inductor saturation
saturation problems.
problems. According
According to
to Equations
Equations (15b)
(15b) and
and (16),
(16),
the minimum converter side inductor value can be deduced based on Equation
the minimum converter side inductor value can be deduced based on Equation (17): (17):

V
∆iΔmax = Vdcdc
imax = (15a)
(15a)
6 Li fi sfωsω
6L

VVdc
Li min =
Limin = 6 f dc∆i (15b)
(15b)
ω Δimax
6 f ssω max
 
Iimax + ∆imax
2  < Isat
 
(16)
where Iimax = I2max (for high frequencies)
Vdc
Limin > (17)
12 f sω ( Isat − Iimax )

3.6. Tuning of the Grid Side Inductor

The grid side inductor is designed in order to limit the grid current harmonics according to
standards and grid code requirements. According to the IEEE 519-1992 standard, the grid current THD
Energies 2017, 10, 336 8 of 19

value must be under 5% [39]. The relation between the converter side and the grid side inductors is
given by Equation (18a):
L2 = aLi (18a)
L Tmax
where 0 ≤ a ≤ amax and amax = −1 (18b)
Li
By substituting the grid side inductor L2 by its expression given by Equation (18a) and supposing
the grid inductor Lg equal to zero, Equation (5c) becomes equal to Equation (19a), where δ is the
harmonic attenuation rate. It represents the relation between the converter current and the grid current
at the switching frequency. The positive solution of Equation (19a) is given by Equation (19b):
 
 i2sω  1
δ=
 =   (19a)
iisω  2 ) 
1 + a(1 − Li C f ωsω


1+δ
a= (19b)
δa1
where a1 = Li Cf ω sω 2 − 1. Based on (18a) and (19b), the grid side inductor can be expressed as follows:

L i (1 + δ )
L2 = aLi = (20)
δa1

By substituting the grid side inductor L2 by its expression given by Equation (20), fresmin
(expressed by Equation (6)) becomes equal to (21a). Also, fresmax (expressed by Equation (6)) becomes
equal to (21b):
s
1 δa2 + Li
f resmin = (21a)
2π δa3 + L2i C f max
s
1 δb2 + Li
f resmax = (21b)
2π δb3 + L2i C f min

where a2 = Li + a1 Lgmax + a1 Li , a3 = (Li + a1 Lgmax )Li Cf max , b2 = Li + a1 Lgmin + a1 Li ,

b3 = (Li + a1 Lgmin )Li Cfmin . According to Equations (9), (21a) and (21b), fresmin and fresmax must verify the
conditions expressed by Equations (22) and (23), respectively. These equations provide a condition on
the value of the harmonic attenuation rate δ which ensures a resonance frequency variation included
in the stable region. On the other hand, the desired harmonic attenuation rate must be greater than
a minimum harmonic attenuation rate δmin that corresponds to amax . This condition is given by
Equation (24):

2
2
f sω 2 1 δa2 + Li 36Li −(2π f sω Li )2 C f max
f cmin = < f resmin = 4π 2 δa3 + L2i C f max
→δ< ⇒ 1st δ condition (22)
36 a3 (2π f sω )2 −36a2

2 1 δb2 + Li 2
2
f sω 4Li −(2π f sω Li )2 C f min
f resmax = 4π 2 δb3 + L2i C f min
< f cmax = →δ< ⇒ 2nd δ condition (23)
4 b3 (2π f sω )2 −4b2

1
δ > δmin = ⇒ 3rd δ condition (24)
|1 + amax a1 |
Moreover, it should be noted that the current harmonics are lower when δ is lower. Consequently,
the grid current THD value is lower when the harmonic attenuation rate δ is lower. Based on what has
been said and conditions given by Equations (22)–(24), a desired harmonic attenuation rate δ can be
easily selected. After that, the value of a can be computed according to Equation (19b). Finally, the
value of the grid side inductor L2 is deduced based Equation (18a).
Energies 2017, 10, 336 9 of 19

3.7. LCL Filter Parameter Verification

The current at the input of the LCL filter contains the fundamental current and the high frequency
harmonics. The objective of the LCL filter is to attenuate these harmonics and obtain only the
fundamental current at the output of the filter. The high frequency harmonics should flow through the
low impedance path composed by the filter capacitor rather than their injection into the grid. To this
purpose, for the obtained LCL filter parameters, conditions given by Equations (25a) and (25b) must
be fulfilled:
1
For fundamental signals : ZC f >> ZL2 ⇔ >> 2π f g L2 (25a)
2π f g C f
1
For high frequencies : ZC f << ZL2 ⇔ << 2π f sω L2 (25b)
2π f sω C f
where ZCf and ZL2 are the capacitor impedance and the filter grid side inductor impedance, respectively.

Algorithm of the LCL filter design methodology

Figure 5 shows the algorithm of LCL filter design methodology that allows tuning of LCL filter
Energies 2017,
parameters 10, 336
according to the input data of the controlled system. 10 of 20

Increase Isat
Input data: P, Ug, fsω, fg,Isat

Resonance frequency condition (Eq. (9))

Maximum value of the total inductor LTmax (Eq. (10d))

Minimum dc-link voltage Vdcmin (Eq. (13))

Increase Cfinit
Maximum LCL filter capacitor value Cfmax (Eq. (14c)) Increase Cfinit

→ Cfinit = Cfmax/2

Decrease Li
Tuning of the converter side inductor Li (Eq. (17))

Δimax No
Iimax + <Isat
2
Yes
Constraints:
Tuning of the grid side inductor L2
- Large grid impedance variation
Decrease L2 - Choice of δ (Eq. (22), Eq. (23) and Eq. (24))
- Filter capacitor accuracy
- Determination of a (Eq. (19b))
- Inductor saturation problems
- Determination of L2 (Eq. (18a))
- Resonance frequency problems
No
Li+L2<LTmax - Stability without damping
Yes - Grid THD value less than 5%
LCL filter parameters - Low harmonic attenuation rate δ
Verification (Eq. (25a) and Eq. (25b))

Output data: Final values of LCL filter parameters

Figure 5. LCL filter design algorithm.

Figure 5. LCL filter design algorithm.

4. Case Study for LCL Filter Design

4. Case Study for LCL Filter Design
4.1. Application Design Methodology
4.1. Application Design Methodology
The step-by-step LCL filter design methodology has been applied to a system with a line-to-line
The step-by-step LCL filter design methodology has been applied to a system with a line-to-line
RMS grid voltage Ug equal to 400 V, a rated power P equal to 4 kW, a rated frequency of grid voltage
RMS grid voltage Ug equal to 400 V, a rated power P equal to 4 kW, a rated frequency of grid voltage
fg equal to 50 Hz and a switching frequency fsω equal to 10 kHz. Based on the design methodology
presented and detailed in Section 3, the LCL filter parameters are computed as follows:
- Maximum value of the total inductor LTmax
According to Equation (10d), the maximum value of the total inductor LTmax is equal to 12.7 mH.
Energies 2017, 10, 336 10 of 19

fg equal to 50 Hz and a switching frequency fsω equal to 10 kHz. Based on the design methodology
presented and detailed in Section 3, the LCL filter parameters are computed as follows:

- Maximum value of the total inductor LTmax

According to Equation (10d), the maximum value of the total inductor LTmax is equal to 12.7 mH.

- Minimum DC-link voltage Vdcmin

The maximum grid current I2max and voltage Vgmax are equal to 10 A and 325 V, respectively.
According to Equation (12), the maximum converter voltage Vi max is equal to 328 V. Consequently,
based on Equation (13), the required minimum DC-link voltage Vdcmin is equal to 567 V. We choose
Vdc equal to 600 V.

- Maximum LCL filter capacitor value Cf max

According to Equation (14c), the maximum LCL filter capacitor value Cf max is equal to 4 µF.
A value of 2 µF is chosen for the LCL filter capacitor.

- Tuning of the converter side inductor Li

The saturation current of the filter inductors Isat is equal to 12 A and the maximum converter
current Ii max is equal to 10 A. So, according to Equation (15a), the maximum converter current ripple
∆i max is equal to 4 A. Based on Equation (17), the minimum converter side inductor value is equal to
2.5 mH. A value of 5 mH is chosen for the converter side inductor which presents 40% of the total LCL
filter inductor value.

- Tuning of the grid side inductor L2

For long wires and weak grid conditions, the value of wires inductor is in the range of few mH.
This value can be overestimated to 10 mH. The leakage inductance of the transformer is equal to 3 mH.
Consequently, the grid inductor can reach a maximum value of 13 mH. While the value of the capacitor
varies between 1.9 µF and 2.1 µF since the capacitor accuracy is equal to 5%. Note that, the minimum
value fresmin is obtained for weak grid conditions (Lg = Lgmax = 13 mH) and maximum capacitor value
(Cf = Cf max ), while the maximal value fresmax is obtained for stiff grid conditions (Lg = 0) and minimum
capacitor value (Cf = Cfmin ). Based on Equations (22) and (23), the desired harmonic attenuation rate
must obey to conditions given by the following equations:

δ > 0.62% (26a)

δ < 29.8% (26b)

On the other hand, the harmonic attenuation rate δ must verify also Equation (27), which is
deduced from Equation (24):
δ > δmin = 1.72% (27)

Based on Equations (26a), (26b) and (27), the harmonic attenuation rate δ must obey to the
following condition:
1.72% < δ < 29.8% (28)

A current harmonic attenuation rate δ of 7% is selected. Then a value of a = 0.4 is computed based
on Equation (19b). According to Equation (18a), the value of grid side inductor is 2 mH which presents
16% of the total LCL filter inductor value.
Energies 2017, 10, 336 11 of 19

- Resonance frequency

For the considered 4 kW case study, conditions given by Equation (9) are verified as shown in the
following equation:

f sω
10 f g ≤ f cmin < f resmin ≤ f res ≤ f resmax < f cmax = (29)
|{z} | {z } | {z } | {z } | {z 2 }
=500Hz =1.667kHz =1.793kHz =3.055kHz
=5kHz

Figure 6 shows the resonance frequency as a function of grid inductor variation and filter capacitor
error for the obtained LCL filter inductors (Li = 5 mH and L2 = 2 mH). As it is shown in this figure, the
range of resonance frequency variation is limited between fcmin and fcmax even for the worst case of Cf
and Lg . Consequently, for the chosen LCL filter parameters and for the worst case of Lg and Cf , the
resonance frequency is placed in a stable region where no damping is required.
Also, for the obtained LCL filter parameters, conditions given by Equations (25a) and (25b) are
verified as shown in the following equation:

For fundamental signals : ZC f >> ZL2 ⇒ ZC f ≈ 2500 ZL2

|{z} |{z}
=1591 =0.628
(30)
For high frequencies : ZC f << ZL2 ⇒ ZC f ≈ 0.05 ZL2
|{z} |{z}
=7.95 =125.66
Energies 2017, 10, 336 12 of 20

fres(kHz)

fcmax=

fresmax=3.055 kHz, Cfmin=1.9 µF, Lgmin=0 mH

fresmax=3.05
3055 Stable region constrained by

fcmin<fres<fcmax

fresmin=1.793 kHz, Cfmax=2.1 µF, Lgmax=13mH

fresmin=1.79
1793
fcmin=1.66
0
2.1
2
1.9 Cf(µF)
0
2.1
2
13 1.9
1.9
Lg(mH)

Figure 6. Resonance frequency according to grid inductor and filter capacitor accuracy.
Figure 6. Resonance frequency according to grid inductor and filter capacitor accuracy.

Figure
Figure77presents presents thethecontrol strategy
control employed
strategy employedin thisinpaper for regulating
this paper the grid-side
for regulating currents
the grid-side
icurrents
2(a,b,c) . Iti2(a,b,c)
is based on theonvoltage
. It is based oriented
the voltage PI control,
oriented which
PI control, whichis is
designed thedq
designedininthe dqsynchronous
synchronous
reference
reference frame.
frame. In In this figure, iidqdqand
this figure, andVV denote
denote
dqdq respectively
respectively thethe dq-axis
dq-axis current
current andand voltage
voltage of of
dq
dq transformation, while i* and V* denote respectively
transformation, while i* and V* denote respectively the reference current and the reference current and voltage. Since the
the
simplified
simplifiedblock blockdiagramdiagramofof anan
LCL
LCL filter in the
filter dq frame
in the can can
dq frame be considered the same
be considered as in the
the same abcthe
as in frame
abc
frame (by neglecting the decoupling terms on d and q axis) [9], the open and closed loop transfer
functions of the whole controlled system are given by Equations (31a) and (31b), respectively:
i2 dq K p s + Ki
FO = = (31a)
i2∗dq − i2 dq Li Lg2 C f s 4 + C f ( Lg2 Ri + Li R2g )s3 + (C f Lg2 Ri + Li + Lg2 )s 2 + ( Ri + R2g ) s

i K s+K
 Figure 6. Resonance frequency according to grid inductor and filter capacitor accuracy.

Figure 7 presents the control strategy employed in this paper for regulating the grid-side
currents
Energies i2(a,b,c)
2017, 10, .336
It is based on the voltage oriented PI control, which is designed in the dq synchronous 12 of 19
reference frame. In this figure, idq and Vdq denote respectively the dq-axis current and voltage of dq
transformation, while i* and V* denote respectively the reference current and voltage. Since the
(by neglecting
simplified block thediagram
decoupling of an terms
LCLon d and
filter in qtheaxis)
dq [9],
framethe can
openbeand closed loop
considered thetransfer functions
same as in the abcof
the whole controlled system are given by Equations (31a) and
frame (by neglecting the decoupling terms on d and q axis) [9], the open and closed loop transfer (31b), respectively:
functions of the i2dqwhole controlled system are given byKEquations (31a) and (31b), respectively:
p s + Ki
FO = ∗ = (31a)
p s (+CK
g g g g g 2 g
i2dq − i2dq i2 dqLi L2 C f s4 + C f ( L2 Ri + Li R2 )s3K+ f iL2 Ri + Li + L2 ) s + ( Ri + R2 ) s
FO = ∗ = (31a)
i2 dq − i2 dq Li Lg2 C f s 4 + C f ( Lg2 Ri + Li R2g )s3 + (C f Lg2 Ri + Li + Lg2 )s 2 + ( Ri + R2g ) s
i2dq K p s + Ki
FC = ∗ = i g g g 3 K gs + K g g (31b)
i2dq F =Li L2 C2 dq
=fs +
4 C f ( L2 Ri + Li R2 )s + (C f Lp2 Ri +i Li + L2 )s2 + ( Ri + R2 + K p )s + Ki (31b)
C ∗ g 4 g g 3 g g 2 g
i2 dq Li L2 C f s + C f ( L2 Ri + Li R2 ) s + (C f L2 Ri + Li + L2 ) s + ( Ri + R2 + K p ) s + K i

Vgd-ωgLTi2q
i2d
i2d*+ - + + Vid*
Vdc* + PI PI
Vi(a,b,c)*
- * dq-to-abc SVM S(a,b,c)
Viq
Vdc i2q* PI
+ - + +
i2q θdq
Vgq+ωgLTi2d

Figure 7. Voltage oriented PI control structure for LCL-filter-based Grid-connected Converters.

Figure 7. Voltage oriented PI control structure for LCL-filter-based Grid-connected Converters.
Table 1 shows the used system parameters. In this table, the PI controller parameters (Kp and Ki )
(usedTable
for grid-side
1 shows current
the usedregulation) were tuned
system parameters. Inaccording
this table,to
thethe
PIoptimum
controllercriterion method
parameters [9]. Ki)
(Kp and
(used for grid-side current regulation) were tuned according to the optimum criterion method [9].
Table 1. System parameters.

Parameter Value
Ug 400 V
P 4 kW
System fsω 10 kHz
fg 50 Hz
Vdc 600 V
Cf 2 µF
LCL filter Li 5 mH
L2 2 mH
Kp 2.4
PI controller
Ki 592
Grid inductance Lg Lgmin = 0 mH and Lgmax = 13 mH

In Figure 8 is reported the root locus of the FC transfer function (Equation (31b)) when Lg varies
from 0 to 13 mH (with a step of 1 mH). As shown in this figure, the system stability is ensured without
damping even for large grid impedance variation. Moreover, since the converter side inductor is
realized using the iron-powder core with distributed air gap (Figure 13), its inductance value can
change over the time. The robustness of the system against converter side inductor variations was
investigated for the obtained filter parameters. To this purpose, Figure 9 shows the Bode diagram
of the FO transfer function (Equation (31a)) when Li varies from 3.5 mH to 6.5 mH (5 mH ± 30%).
According to this figure, for all cases of the Li variations, the gain margin Gm and phase margin Pm
are larger than 19 dB and 45.9 degree, respectively. So, the system stability is ensured even for large
converter side inductor variations.
 value can change over the time. The robustness of the system against converter side inductor
variations was investigated for the obtained filter parameters. To this purpose, Figure 9 shows the
Bode diagram of the FO transfer function (Equation (31a)) when Li varies from 3.5 mH to 6.5 mH (5
mH ± 30%). According to this figure, for all cases of the Li variations, the gain margin Gm and phase
Energies
margin are 10,
Pm 2017, 336 than 19 dB and 45.9 degree, respectively. So, the system stability is13ensured
larger of 19

even for large converter side inductor variations.

x 104 Pole Map
2

1 Lg ↑
Lg ↑ Lg ↑

-1 Lg ↑

-2
-350 -300 -250 -200 -150 -100 -50 0
Real Axis

Energies 2017, 10, 336 Figure 8. Pole map of the closed-loop system when Lg varies from 0 to 13 mH. 14 of 20

Figure 8. Pole map of the closed-loop system when Lg varies from 0 to 13 mH.
Bode Diagram
150
Li=3.5mH
100 Li=5mH
50 Li=6.5mH
0
-50
Gm(min) =19dB
-100
-150
-90
Li=3.5mH
-135 Li=5mH
Li=6.5mH
-180

-225 Pm(min) =45.9deg

-270
100 101 102 103 104 105
Frequency (Hz)

Figure 9. Bode diagram of the open loop system when Li varies from 3.5 mH to 6.5 mH (5 mH ± 30%).

Figure 9. Bode diagram of the open loop system when Li varies from 3.5 mH to 6.5 mH (5 mH ± 30%).
4.2. Simulation Results
TheResults
4.2. Simulation designed LCL filter is tested through simulation using a Matlab-Simulink software tool.
The simulation results are obtained with a three-phase PWM rectifier, a switching frequency equal to
The10designed LCL filter
kHz and without is tested
the use through method.
of any damping simulation using
Figure 10a,ba show
Matlab-Simulink
the simulationsoftware
results of tool.
the
The simulation
converterresults
currentare
andobtained with
grid current, a three-phase
respectively. It canPWM rectifier,
be noted a switching
based on these figuresfrequency
that, usingequal
the
to 10 kHz and without the use of any damping method. Figure 10a,b show the simulation
designed LCL filter, the current harmonic components almost disappear at the switching frequency. results of
the converter current
The converter and THD
current grid is
current,
equal torespectively.
15%, while the It can
grid be noted
current THD isbased
equal on these
to 3%. figures
Hence, that,
the THD
in grid side has decreased and is well below 5% which meets the IEEE 519-1992
using the designed LCL filter, the current harmonic components almost disappear at the switching standard. It should
be noted
frequency. also, basedcurrent
The converter on theseTHD
figures, that the
is equal tosystem is wellthe
15%, while stable without
grid currenttheTHD
use ofisany damping
equal to 3%.
method. Figure 11a,b present the high frequency spectra of the simulated converter and grid currents,
Hence, the THD in grid side has decreased and is well below 5% which meets the IEEE 519-1992
respectively. Based on these figures, the largest near switching frequency current harmonic component
standard. It should be noted also, based on these figures, that the system is well stable without the
is equal to 50% on the converter side and 3.5% on the grid side. Thus, the harmonic attenuation rate δ,
use of any damping method. Figure 11a,b present the high frequency spectra of the simulated
which is the ratio between the largest near switching frequency current harmonic component in the
converter
grid sidegrid
and currents,
and the respectively.
one in the Based
converter side, is wellonequal
these figures,
to 7%. Figurethe
12a largest
shows the near switching
waveform of
frequency current harmonic component is equal to 50% on the converter side and 3.5%
the grid current i2a with regard to the grid voltage Vga during steady state operation. It is commented on the grid
side. Thus, the harmonic attenuation rate δ, which is the ratio between the largest near switching
frequency current harmonic component in the grid side and the one in the converter side, is well
equal to 7%. Figure 12a shows the waveform of the grid current i2a with regard to the grid voltage Vga
during steady state operation. It is commented that the grid current and the grid voltage are in
phase. Hence, the power factor is close to the unity, which corresponds to grid code requirements. In
 Energies 2017, 10, 336 14 of 19

that the grid current and the grid voltage are in phase. Hence, the power factor is close to the unity,
which corresponds to grid code requirements. In order to test the robustness of the designed LCL
filter, additional inductors of 13 mH are inserted in series with the filter grid side inductor. Figure 12b
shows the simulation results of the grid current in case of weak grid conditions (Lg = 13 mH). It should
be noted that the system remains stable without damping despite of a large variation of the grid
inductor value. The obtained simulation results show that, even without damping, the system stability
is guaranteed under stiff as well as weak grid conditions. Finally, it should be noted that the obtained
LCL filter parameters are relatively small (Table 1) which can not only save money, but also enhance
the 2017,
Energies dynamic response of the system. Simulation results indicate the effectiveness and the robustness of15 of 20
10, 336
the designed
Energies LCL filter and therefore the efficiency of the proposed design methodology.
2017, 10, 336 15 of 20
fsω=10 kHz
Iimax
fsω=10 kHz
Energies 2017, 10, 336 15 of 20
Iimax
0 fsω=10 kHz
0 Iimax
iia THDiia = 15%
-Iimax iia THDiia = 15%
-Iimax Stiff
0 grid Lg=0 (a)
Stiff grid Lg=0 (a)
fsω=10 kHz iia THDiia = 15%
I2max-Iimax
fsω=10 kHz
I2max Stiff grid Lg=0 (a)
fsω=10 kHz
0 I2max
0
i2a
0 i2a THDi2a = 3%
-I2max THDi2a = 3%
-I2max Stiff grid Lg=0 (b)
Stiff grid Lg=0i2a (b) THDi2a = 3%
0.
-I3
2max 0. 32
0. 3 Stiff0.grid
32 0. 34 0. 36 0. 38 0. 4 0. 34
0. 34 0. 35 0. 36
Lg=0 0. 34 0. 36 0. 38 0. 4
(b) 0. 35 0. 36
Time(s)(s)
Time Time
Time (s) (s)
0. 3 0. 32 0. 34 0. 36 0. 38 0. 4 0. 34 0. 35 0. 36
Time (s) Time (s)
Figure 10.
Figure
Figure Simulation
10.10. Simulation
Simulation results
results
results during steady
duringsteady
during stateoperation
steadystate
state operation
operation (a)(a) power
power
power converter
converter
converter current
current
current iia response;
iiaiiaresponse;
response;
(b)
(b)grid
(b) current
grid
Figure
grid ii2a
current response.
2a iresponse.
2a response.
10. Simulation
current results during steady state operation (a) power converter current iia response;
(b) grid current i2a response.

50%
50% fsω=10
fsω =10kHz
kHz fsω=10
fsω=10 kHz kHz
50% fsω=10 kHz fsω=10 kHz
3.5%
3.5%
3.5%

3.5%
3.5% (a)
(a) (b) (b)
3.5% (a) (b)
180
180 200
200 220
220 180180 200200 220
180 Order of 200
harmonic 220 180 Order 200
of harmonic 220 220
Order of harmonic
Order of harmonic Order of harmonic
Order of harmonic

Figure 11.
Figure
Figure High
11.11.
Figure High
11. frequency
High frequency
frequency
High spectra
frequency spectraofof
spectra
spectra of(a)
of (a)power
(a) power
powerconverter
converter current;
current;
converter current;
current; (b)grid
(b)
(b) grid
grid
(b) current.
current.
grid current.
current.

Vgmax II2max fsω=10

fsω=10 kHzkHz
Vgmax Vgmax fsω=10 kHz I2max i2ai2a f =10 kHz
fsωf=10
sω=10 kHz 2max
kHz i2a sω
I2max I
I2max 2max
i2a i2a
0 0 i2a 00
0 0
-I2max -I2max
-I2max -VStiff Stiff grid L =0 Vga Vga -I-I2max
2max Weak grid L =13 mH
-Vgmax gmax grid Lg=0 g (a)(a) Weak grid Lg =13 mH (b) (b)
Stiff grid L =0 Vga -I2max Weak gridg L =13 mH
-Vgmax (a) 0. 4 (b)
g g
0. 1 0. 11 0. 12 0. 13 0. 14 0. 15 0. 3 0. 32 0. 34 0. 36 0. 38
0. 1 0. 11 0. 12 0. 13 0. 14 0. 15 0. 3 0. 32 0. 34 0. 36 0. 38 0. 4
Time (s) Time (s)
0. 1 0. 11 0. 12
Time (s)0. 13 0. 14 0. 15 0. 3 0. 32 0.Time
34 (s) 0. 36 0. 38 0. 4
Time (s) Time (s)
Figure12.
Figure 12. Simulation
Simulation results
results during
during steady
steady state
state operation
operation (a) grid
grid voltage
voltage V
Vga and
and current
ga current ii2a2a
Figure 12. Simulation results during steady state operation (a) grid voltage V ga and current i2a
waveforms(b)
waveforms (b)grid
gridcurrent
currenti2a
i2a response
response for
for Lgg == 13
13 mH.
mH.
Figure 12. Simulation
waveforms results
(b) grid current during for
i2a response steady
Lg = 13state
mH.operation (a) grid voltage Vga and current i2a
waveforms (b) grid current i2a response for Lg = 13 mH.
5. Experimental Results
5. Experimental Results
In order Results
5. Experimental to illustrate performances and effectiveness of the considered design methodology, the
In order to
designed LCLillustrate
filter wasperformances and effectiveness
tested for connecting of thePWM
a three-phase considered design
rectifier to themethodology,
grid. The usedthe
In order
designed LCLtofilter
experimental illustrate
set-upwas performances
tested
is composedforof: and effectiveness
connecting a three-phaseof the
PWMconsidered
rectifier design methodology,
to the grid. The used the
experimental
designed LCLset-up
filter iswas
composed of: connecting a three-phase PWM rectifier to the grid. The used
tested for
- A 20 kVA three phase high voltage power converter.
Energies 2017, 10, 336 15 of 19

5. Experimental Results
In order to illustrate performances and effectiveness of the considered design methodology, the
designed LCL filter was tested for connecting a three-phase PWM rectifier to the grid. The used
experimental set-up is composed of:

- A 20 kVA three phase high voltage power converter.

- An auto transformer that varies the voltage peak magnitude (in the AC side).
- An LCL filter (composed of three inductors (5 mH/10 A) with an internal resistor of 0.1 Ω, three
capacitors (2 µF/400 V) and three inductors (2 mH/10 A) with an internal resistor of 0.1 Ω).
- A capacitor for the dc-link (1100 µF/800 V).
- Measurement board that provides current and voltage measurements.
- Three inductors (4.5 mH/10 A) used in order to emulate the large grid impedance variation.
- The STM32F4-Discovery digital solution, which is used for the implementation of the
control algorithm.

The developed experimental set-up is presented in Figure 13. During experimental tests,
the switching frequency was set to 10 kHz and the dc-link reference voltage Vdc ∗ was imposed equal

to 150 V. Also, it should be noted that the experimental results were obtained without the use of any
damping method. Moreover, in addition to the real grid inductance L1g that includes inductance of
distribution wires and the one of the auto-transformer used during experimental tests, an additional
inductance L2g equal to 4.5 mH was added in series with the LCL filter as shown in Figure 13. Figure 14
shows the waveforms of the converter current iia and the grid current i2a for Lg = L1g . The converter
current THD is equal to 17%, while the grid current THD is equal to 3.5%. As depicted in Figure 14,
the current harmonics and the THD value are reduced using the designed LCL filter. Moreover, the
obtained grid current THD is below 5% which meets grid code requirements. Also, the stable operation
of the system is ensured without the use of any damping method. Figure 15a,b present the high
frequency spectra of the measured converter and grid currents. Based on these figures the largest near
switching frequency current harmonic component is equal to 63% on the converter side and 6% on the
grid side. Thus, the harmonic attenuation rate δ is equal to 10%.
Figure 16a presents the waveforms of the grid voltage Vga with regard to the grid current i2a
during steady state operation. The power factor is close to the unity since the grid current and voltage
are in phase. Figure 16b shows the waveforms of the converter current iia and the grid current i2a
for Lg = L1g + L2g . It should be noted, based on this figure, that the stable operation of the system is
ensued without damping despite of the large grid impedance variation. Moreover, it can be noted
from experimental results that some low-frequency harmonics appear in the measured grid current.
However, these odd harmonics could be neglected since they come from sensors noise and the external
control loop of the dc-link voltage Vdc [40]. Finally, it is worth noting that the designed LCL filter
provides high filtering performances with minimized size, weight, losses and cost. Also the obtained
experimental results are quite closely similar to those obtained in simulation. Finally, it should be
noted that experimental results indicate the high filtering performances and reliability of the designed
LCL filter and therefore the efficiency of the proposed design methodology.
 converter current THD is equal to 17%, while the grid current THD is equal to 3.5%. As depicted in
Figure 14, the current harmonics and the THD value are reduced using the designed LCL filter.
Moreover, the obtained grid current THD is below 5% which meets grid code requirements. Also,
the stable operation of the system is ensured without the use of any damping method. Figure 15a,b
present the high frequency spectra of the measured converter and grid currents. Based on these
Energies 2017, 10, 336 16 of 19
figures the largest near switching frequency current harmonic component is equal to 63% on the
converter side and 6% on the grid side. Thus, the harmonic attenuation rate δ is equal to 10%.
Lg

LCL Filter Lg 1
is idc DC/AC ii (Ri,Li) (R2,L2) i2 Lg 2

ic ic Grid impedance
Load Vdc Cf Grid
C Vc

Vg(a,b,c) ig(a,b,c) Autotransformer

S(a,b,c)
Vdc
Measurement board
Host PC
- Voltage oriented PI control

- SVM process

STM32F4-Discovery Grid Auto-transformer

20kVA Power converter TTL-CMOS Measurement board

LCL Filter Additional inductances Lg2 STM32F4-Discovery

Energies 2017, 10, 336 Figure

Figure 13. Experimentalset-up.
13. Experimental set-up. 17 of 20

Lg=Lg1 fsω=10 kHz

Lg=Lg1 fsω=10 kHz

iia
1 >

1>
1) Ch 1: 200 mVolt 5 ms
THDiia =17%

i2a Lg=Lg1 fsω=10 kHz

2>
1 >

1) Ch 1: 500 mVolt 10 ms
2) Ch 2: 2 Volt 10 ms
1) Ch 2: 1 Volt 5 ms THDi2a =3.5%

Figure 14.
Figure Measured power
14. Measured power converter currentiiaiia(1(1A/100
convertercurrent A/100mV)
mV)and
andgrid
gridcurrent
currenti2ai2a(1(1A/100
A/100mV)
mV)for
for Lg
1
=LgL=g .L g .
1

63% fsω=10 kHz

fsω=10 kHz

6%
 1) Ch 1:
Order of harmonic
500 mVolt 10 ms
Order of harmonic
2) Ch 2: 2 Volt 10 ms
1) Ch 2: THDi
Figure 15. High frequency spectra of (a) power converter current (b) 2a =3.5%
grid current.
1 Volt 5 ms

Figure14.16a
Figure presents
Measured the converter
power waveforms of the
current iia (1grid voltage
A/100 Vgagrid
mV) and with regard
current i2a (1toA/100
the grid current
mV) for Lg i2a
Energies
during2017, 10, 336
1steady state
operation. The power factor is close to the unity since the grid current and
17 of 19
= Lg .
voltage are in phase. Figure 16b shows the waveforms of the converter current iia and the grid
current i2a for Lg = L1g + L2g . It should be noted, based on this figure, that the stable operation of the
63% fsω=10 kHz
fsω=10 kHz
system is ensued without damping despite of the large grid impedance variation. Moreover, it can
be noted from experimental results that some low-frequency harmonics appear in the measured grid
current. However, these odd harmonics could be neglected since 6% they come from sensors noise and
(a)
the external control loop of the dc-link voltage Vdc [40]. Finally, it is worth noting that the (b) designed
LCL filter provides
180 high filtering
200 performances
220 with minimized180size, weight, 200 losses and220cost. Also
the obtained experimental
Orderresults are quite closely similar to those obtained
of harmonic Order ofin simulation. Finally, it
harmonic
should be noted that experimental results indicate the high filtering performances and reliability of
Figure 15.
15.High
Highfrequency spectra of
of(a)
(a)power
powerconverter
convertercurrent
current (b)
(b) grid
grid current.
the designed Figure
LCL filter and frequency
therefore spectra
the efficiency of the proposed design current.
methodology.
Figure 16a presents the waveforms of the grid voltage Vga with regard to the grid current i2a
1
=Lg1
duringLgsteady =10 kHz factor is close to Lthe
state operation. Thefsωpower +Lg2
g=Lg unity fsω=10 kHz
since the grid current and
iia
voltage
1 >
are in phase. Figure 16b shows the waveforms of the converter current iia and the grid

current i2a for Lg = L1g + L2g . It should be noted, based on this1 >
figure, that the stable operation of the
Vga
system is ensued without damping despite of the large grid impedance variation. Moreover, it can
be noted
2 >
from experimental results that some low-frequency harmonics appear i2a in the measured grid
current. However, these odd harmonics could be neglected since they come from sensors noise and
2 >
the external
1) Ch 1:
control loop of ithe
500 mVolt 10 ms
2a
dc-link voltage Vdc [40]. Finally, it is worth noting that the designed
1) Ch 1: 500 mVolt 10 ms
LCL filter
2) Ch provides
2: high
2 Volt 10 ms filtering performances with minimized
(a) 2) Chsize,
2: 2weight, losses and cost. Also
Volt 10 ms (b)
the obtained experimental results are quite closely similar to those obtained in simulation. Finally, it
should be noted
Figure
Figure 16. (a)that
16. (a) Gridexperimental
Grid voltage (50results
voltageVVgaga (50 V/100 indicate
mV)
V/100 mV) the high
and current
and current ii2a filtering
(1 performances
A/100 mV) waveforms at and reliability
steady
2a (1 A/100 mV) waveforms at steady state
state of
the designed
operation;
operation; LCL
(b) filter andpower
(b) measured
measured therefore
power the efficiency
converter
converter currentiiaiiaof
current (1the
(1 A/100
A/100proposed
mV)
mV) and
anddesign
grid methodology.
grid current
currenti2a
i2a (1
(1 A/100 mV)
A/100 mV)
11 2
for LLgg == LLgg +
for + LLg2g . .
Lg=Lg1 fsω=10 kHz Lg=Lg1+Lg2 fsω=10 kHz
iia
6. Conclusions
1 >

This paper proposes a simple, robust and systematic design 1 > methodology for an LCL filter, used
Vga
to interface between three phase power converter and the utility grid. This filter is used in order to
reduce
2 >
the switching frequency current harmonics produced by the poweri2aconverter. The proposed
design methodology is simple, efficient and aimed to meet the grid code requirements. Compared
2 >
i2a
to classical design methodologies, the considered one allows the achievement of robust LCL filter
1) Ch 1: 500 mVolt 10 ms
1) Ch 1: 500 mVolt 10 ms
design with
2) Ch 2: regard toms
2 Volt 10 large grid impedance
(a) variations without damping
2) Ch 2:
when the grid current is
2 Volt 10 ms (b)the
used feedback variable. Moreover, it takes into account accuracy of capacitor standard values and
proposes a simple design method for the converter side inductor that avoids saturation problems.
Figure 16. (a) Grid voltage Vga (50 V/100 mV) and current i2a (1 A/100 mV) waveforms at steady state
An example of LCL filter design is presented and discussed. The obtained filter parameters were
operation; (b) measured power converter current iia (1 A/100 mV) and grid current i2a (1 A/100 mV)
tested using Matlab-Simulink
1 2 software tool and through the development of an experimental set-up.
for Lg = L + Lg .
The obtainedgsimulation and experimental results show the reliability, efficiency and high filtering
performances of the proposed design methodology. It should be noted that, although the system
stability is guaranteed without damping by the proposed LCL design methodology, the stable region
is small, and the resonance phenomenon must be considered. For further work, the robustness of the
system can be improved by adding active damping methods.

Acknowledgments: We would like to thank all reviewers for their valuable comments, helpful suggestions and
their careful review, which helped to improve the quality of the paper. “This work was supported by the Tunisian
Ministry of High Education and Research under Grant LSE-ENIT-LR11ES15”.
Author Contributions: Marwa Ben Said-Romdhane developed the proposed LCL filter design methodology and
validated it through simulation results using Matlab-Simulink® and experimental results using a prototyping
platform. The others co-authors contributed by supervising the research work and by providing facilities.
Conflicts of Interest: The authors declare no conflicts of interest.
Energies 2017, 10, 336 18 of 19

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