Authors: Obaid Siddiqui and Mr. Sanat

ISBN: 978-81-69857-30-7

DOI: https://doi.org/10.59646/774

Date of Publication: August 05, 2026

Cite this book: Obaid S and Sanat, (2026), Power Electronics, San International Scientific Publications, ISBN: 978-81-69857-30-7, DOI: https://doi.org/10.59646/774

Preface

Power electronics has become one of the most influential branches of electrical and electronics engineering, serving as the technological backbone of modern energy conversion, industrial automation, renewable energy systems, electric transportation, aerospace applications, and intelligent power management. The rapid evolution of semiconductor devices and digital control techniques has transformed the way electrical energy is generated, converted, controlled, and utilized. From compact consumer electronics to high-power industrial drives and smart grids, power electronic converters have become indispensable in achieving efficient, reliable, and sustainable energy utilization.

The book “Power Electronics” has been carefully prepared to provide students, educators, and practicing engineers with a comprehensive understanding of the fundamental principles and practical applications of power electronic systems. The content is structured in a systematic manner, progressing from semiconductor switching devices to advanced power converter topologies. Each chapter combines theoretical concepts with analytical methods, mathematical derivations, waveform analysis, and practical engineering considerations, enabling readers to build both conceptual clarity and problem-solving skills.

The first module introduces the fundamental power semiconductor switching devices, including power diodes, thyristors (SCRs), MOSFETs, and IGBTs. Their construction, operating principles, static and dynamic characteristics, switching behavior, and safe operating regions are discussed in detail. Special emphasis is placed on the current-voltage characteristics, firing circuits for thyristors, voltage and current commutation techniques, and the design of gate drive circuits for MOSFETs and IGBTs, which form the basis of modern switching applications.

The second module focuses on thyristor-based controlled rectifiers, which remain essential in medium- and high-power conversion systems. The operation and performance of single-phase half-wave, full-wave, and full-bridge controlled rectifiers are analyzed for both resistive and highly inductive loads. The module further extends these concepts to three-phase full-bridge controlled rectifiers, highlighting firing angle control, output voltage regulation, current waveforms, ripple characteristics, input current harmonics, displacement factor, distortion factor, and overall power factor analysis.

The third module presents the principles of DC–DC converters, emphasizing switched-mode power conversion techniques. It begins with elementary chopper circuits and introduces the concepts of duty ratio, switching frequency, and average output voltage. Detailed steady-state analysis of buck and boost converters is provided, including circuit operation during switching intervals, voltage-current relationships, inductor and capacitor behavior, waveform interpretation, efficiency considerations, and output voltage regulation through duty-cycle control. These converters form the foundation of modern switched-mode power supplies, battery-powered systems, renewable energy interfaces, and electric vehicle power management.

The fourth module explores Voltage Source Inverters (VSIs) and Current Source Inverters (CSIs), which are fundamental building blocks of AC power conversion. The operation of single-phase and three-phase voltage source inverters is explained through switching states, instantaneous output voltages, average output voltages, and switching sequence analysis. Various pulse-width modulation techniques, including square-wave operation, bipolar sinusoidal PWM, unipolar sinusoidal PWM, and three-phase sinusoidal modulation, are presented with emphasis on modulation index, harmonic reduction, and output voltage control. The module concludes with an introduction to current source inverters, providing readers with an understanding of alternative inverter topologies used in specialized industrial applications.

Throughout the book, emphasis has been placed on developing a strong analytical foundation supported by circuit diagrams, mathematical derivations, waveform illustrations, and engineering interpretations. The presentation bridges the gap between theory and practice, enabling readers to understand the operating principles of power electronic converters while appreciating their practical implementation in industrial systems.

It is hoped that this book will serve as a valuable textbook for undergraduate and postgraduate students of Electrical Engineering, Electronics Engineering, Power Systems, Mechatronics, and related disciplines. It is also expected to be a useful reference for researchers, practicing engineers, and professionals involved in power conversion, industrial drives, renewable energy integration, and advanced electrical system design. By providing a balanced blend of theoretical concepts and practical insights, this book aims to equip readers with the knowledge and analytical skills required to address the challenges of modern power electronic systems and contribute to the advancement of efficient, intelligent, and sustainable electrical energy technologies.