Using Pulse Density Modulation to Improve the Efficiency of IGBT Inverters in Induction Heating Applications

This paper analyses a high power (50 kW), high frequency (150 kHz) voltage fed inverter with a series resonant load circuit for industrial induction heating applications which is characterized by a full bridge inverter made with IGBT and the power control based on pulse density modulation (PDM). This power control strategy allows that the inverter works close to the resonance frequency for all output power levels. In this situation zero-voltage switching (ZVS) and zero-current switching (ZCS) conditions are performed and the switching losses are minimized. The results are verified experimentally using a prototype for induction hardening applications. A comparative study between the PDM and the classical frequency power control will be made.