Power electronics

Our research on power electronics is underpinning developments across all areas of consumer gadgets, industrial systems, renewable generation, low-carbon transport and power networks.

Achievements include demonstrating an efficient and compact silicon carbide converter for electric vehicle power trains and the invention of DC circuit-breaking concepts.

Research focus

We are experts in this field and cover all aspects related to power electronics.

Some specific areas we focus on are:

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  Power dense converters

  One of the bottlenecks limiting the development of electric vehicles and more-electric-aircraft is the size and weight of the power electronic equipment. We are devising new power-dense solutions using the latest materials and high-speed control.

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  Wireless power transfer

  Wireless power transfer technology is especially beneficial in situations where conventional wired power transmission is either impractical or inconvenient. Our research focuses on modelling and optimizing various scenarios for near-range and mid-range wireless power applications. This includes developing application-specific winding designs and designing power electronics with high efficiency and high energy density.

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  Voltage-source HVDC

  Voltage-source HVDC is rapidly emerging as a leading power transmission technology, offering new capabilities and connecting offshore windfarms or interconnecting nations. We are working on a wide variety of operational and planning aspects to bring these systems to fruition.