Solid-State Transformers (SSTs) are featuring bidirectional medium-voltage (MV) to low-voltage (LV) AC/AC, AC/DC or DC/DC conversion and are formed by power electronics interfaces at the input and output side, which are linked through a medium-frequency transformer. Accordingly, SSTs show a higher power density / lower weight than conventional low-frequency transformers and are offering high controllability, which can be utilized for defining the power flow, for output voltage / frequency control, reactive power compensation, active filtering etc.

Therefore, SSTs are already perfectly suited for replacing the bulky low-frequency transformers of locomotives, where a simultaneous improvement of power density and efficiency could be achieved. In a more futuristic scenario SSTs can be seen as key elements of a smart hybrid, i.e. AC and DC electric grid, allowing also MVDC and LVDC connectivity, hence an easier integration of renewable energy sources also through the use of storage systems.

However, the connection to MV, the high overall complexity, and the high realization costs are still main challenges for practical applications of SST technology.
The workshop will address the state-of-the art of SST systems from topology and control perspective but also concerning key component technologies like high-voltage SiC power semiconductors and packages and insulation materials and finally also discuss application scenarios in traction systems and electric grids.

The workshop is chaired by Prof. J.W. Kolar (ETH Zurich) and Prof. M. Liserre (CAU Kiel).

All presentations and discussions will be in English language.