Smart Transformer reliability and efficiency through modularity

The application of the Smart Transformer (ST) in the electrical distribution system follows the trend to install more intelligent devices in the grid. In competition with the traditional transformer, the winning argument of the ST can be the grid services, while the system needs to be designed for the targets of high efficiency, high reliability and high availability. This work proposes a modular ST design, which uses power semiconductors rated for lower current and voltage for high efficiency, while the reliability and the availability are targeted by directly routing the power within the modular system. An overview is given on promising modular ST architectures and the concept of power routing for improved reliability is presented.