Power Conversion Technology News

ABB power conversion technology ensures a stable power supply for the fast-charging units serving five new electric ferries on the round-the-clock services crossing Amsterdam’s North Sea Canal. The new ferries have been ordered by the city’s public transport company, Gemeentelijk vervoerbedrijf (GVB), as an important step in its strategy to become a sustainable, emission-free transportation company. By 2023 they will completely replace the existing diesel-powered fleet that dates…

The MET Hybrid Turbocharger from Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Marine Machinery & Engine Co. Ltd. (MHI-MME) uses a motor generator system and power electronics developed by Calnetix Technologies. The Japan Machinery Foundation presented its President’s Award to MHI-MME for the new-technology turbocharger in the 36th Energy Conserving Machinery competition last month. Calnetix’s patented Magnaforce high-speed permanent magnet motor generator is housed within the turbocharger. By diverting a small portion of the engine exhaust gas that would normally be dedicated entirely to the turbocharger, the new MET Hybrid is able to provide all the auxiliary electric power required for the ship, eliminating the need for running a separate diesel generator.

Ametek Programmable Power introduced the Elgar XWave high-power AC power source/frequency convertor. The design of the XWave Series utilizes 10kW power modules to provide incremental output levels from 30kVA to 480kVA. A single cabinet can provide 120kVA with multiple cabinets configured for outputs from 120kVA to 480kVA. Its interchangeable components facilitate on-site repairs and, should future requirements change, permit field upgrades and improvements. The XWave provides up to 150% of rated output current for up to 7 seconds to handle loads with heavy in-rush currents, and it has a line drip compensation feature to overcome distribution losses. Standard models are offered with single or three-phase outputs in a variety of single or dual output ranges.