T-type Buck-Boost PFC Rectifier in Discontinuous Conduction Mode

Mains-connected converters must correct the power factor to fulfill different power quality requirements. As a result, power factor correction (PFC) circuits have been developed in the 80s the past century and nowadays are mandatory. However, while most devices fed from rectifiers require a low voltage, most of the PFC today are based on Boost converters. Consequently, an additional conversion step between the rectifier and the target load is required. The cascade connection makes the power-supply system to be more expensive, larger, and less efficient. This paper presents a new rectifier topology, based on Buckboost converter, that will enable to supply a regulated step up / step down output voltage, over a wide range, while keeping all required power quality standards for a variety of applications. First, the operation principles of the converter are explained, then an analysis is performed for an inductor current discontinuous conduction mode (DCM), and simulation results of the rectifier are introduced.