Influence of System Layout on CM EMI Noise of SiC Electric Vehicle Powertrains

This paper investigates the influences of system layout on common mode (CM) EMI noise of an electric vehicle (EV) powertrain with a traction inverter using silicon carbide (SiC) MOSFETs. First, a system level conducted EMI model for the whole SiC EV powertrain is presented, which includes a battery pack, DC cables, a SiC inverter, AC cables, and a PMSM. Then, the impacts of system layout, such as the AC cable length, the AC cable type, and the DC cable type (shielded cable and unshielded cable) on CM EMI noise are analyzed through time domain simulations of the system level conducted EMI model. Next, a conducted EMI emission test-bed for a SiC EV powertrain is built. Finally, experiments on the test-bed are carried out to verify the influences of system layout on CM EMI noise in the SiC EV powertrain.

Generation and Mitigation of Conducted Electromagnetic Interference in Power Converters – A Big Picture

This article is a big picture of how electrical noise or conducted Electromagnetic Interference (EMI) is generated and mitigated in power converters. It gives an overview of what EMI in power converters is – from generation through to conduction and mitigation. It is meant to cover the complete subject as a summary so that the reader will have an outline of how to control conducted EMI by design (where possible) and how to mitigate by filtering. A clear distinction is made between Differential Mode (DM) and Common Mode (CM) EMI generation and mitigation. By using a boost converter as an example the trade-offs for DM noise control are discussed. It is shown how CM EMI is generated in a boost converter using the concept of the “Imbalance Difference Model” (IDM). Practical measurements for an in-line power filter is given showing the effect of the filter on the total EMI of a boost converter. Measurements for the CM current produced due to the imbalance difference for different values of the boost conductor are also shown. The main contribution of this study is linking CM noise generation to DM EMI. It is shown that CM noise is a direct consequence of DM noise (although circuit imbalance and coupling to a common ground also play a role). This paper will be useful to designers seeking the “bigger picture” of how EMI is generated in power converters and what can be done to mitigate the noise.