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The Department of Converter Technology
develops solutions for the grid connec-
tion of renewable energy sources and
energy storage, including the wired and
wireless grid connection of electrical ve-
hicles. We cover a power range from a
few watts up to several megawatts. Our
excellent competence is the design and
dimensioning of power electronics con-
verters, including the implementation of
their control, for example DC / DC con-
verters and inverters. In our concepts we
follow a system oriented approach in order
to find optimal solutions for each individ-
ual project/situation. Our research topics
are new converter topologies, energy
efficiency, reliability and new control
algorithms.
Power Electronics and Components
The power electronics group’s task is the
development and optimization of circuits
for switching power converters as well as
components for renewable energy sourc-
es, energy storage and grid connection
of electric vehicles. In addition to improve
efficiency and reliability we also focus on
the optimization of the volume-weight-
cost of switching power converters.
Our development laboratories are well
equipped to perform demonstrations,
investigate components as well as char-
acterize and investigate final products.
Power Converter Control
The converter control group designs and
develops the control of power electronic
converters, which are often used as a link
between distributed generation plants
and the electrical power grid. Our focus
is on the development and optimization
of control strategies and control algo-
rithms that improve the behavior of the
converter of on-grid-connected and off-
grid-connected power plants thereby in-
creasing efficiency. Using Hardware-in-
the-loop and rapid-prototyping methods
accelerates our development process.
Testing
Testing of generation units, static converters
and power electronics is another essential
part of the research activities at Fraunhofer
IWES / Kassel. Within our accredited testing
laboratories, we offer standard and custom-
ized tests and measurements together with
characterization and simulation of power
electronics and system components, with
a particular focus on:
•
Grid integration
•
Performance and reliability
•
Electromagnetic compatibility
Our services cover concept design and
control systems as well as tests and
measurements of all power electronics
devices from sub kW to multi MW
systems.
Fraunhofer Institute for Wind Energy and Energy System Technology IWES
Testing Laboratory for grid integration (Fault Ride
Through Container)
Testing Centre for electromobility and battery converters
