LCL-T resonant converter with clamp diodes: A novel constant-current power supply with inherent constant-voltage limit

The LCL-T resonant converter behaves as a constant-current (CC) source when operated at the resonant frequency. The output voltage of a CC power supply increases linearly with the load resistance. Therefore, a constant-voltage (CV) limit must be incorporated in the converter for its use in practical applications wherein the open-load condition is commonly experienced by a CC power supply, such as in an arc welding power supply. A novel LCL-T resonant converter with clamp diodes is. proposed in this paper, which has built-in CC-CV characteristics. Since the CC-CV characteristics are inherent to the converter, and complex feedback control is not required, the proposed converter is rugged and reliable. The principle of operation of the converter is explained. Experimental results on a 500-W prototype are presented to demonstrate the inherent CC-CV behavior of the converter. Simple extensions of the topology featuring variable CV limits are described.