EMC Distinguished Lecture – Conducted EMI of an Inverter-Driven Electric Power Train

Due to the electrification in mobility applications, electric (high) power trains become an increasingly important subject of investigating EMI. This talk provides an overview about the systematic root cause of
electromagnetic conducted emissions of a power train. Direct current (DC) power sources such as batteries or fuel cells provide the energy for propulsion. Alternating current (AC) electric engines drive the vehicle,
because AC engines have advantages in maintenance and reliability. Pulse–width modulating (PWM) inverters convert DC into AC voltages. PWM technology can lead to significant electromagnetic interference (EMI) issues
pending e.g. on power level and more electric parameters, which should be chosen early for mitigating the EMI risk.
A simple predictive simulation model supports making integration decisions in view of the EMI risk. Typical power levels for smaller aircraft power trains start at 100 kW; levels up to some 10 MW are necessary
for the propulsion of large transport aircraft. Fast switching inverters converting high power levels imply a high dV/dt and a significant EMI potential in common mode (CM). This talk will also show how the choice of the
inverter and the choice of the power system (IT versus TN network) limits or exacerbates interference.
Crosstalk to wiring looms routed adjacently to power train AC cables will further illustrate the effects and provide options for an optimization of a power train from an EMI point of view.