Reliability analysis of converter using Markov approach

The continuous, reliable electrical energy supply is essential in this modern world as humanity’s day-to-day activity depends on uninterrupted electrical energy. Power Electronic converters play a crucial role in power quality improvement, variable-speed drives, grid integration of renewable energy conversion systems, energy storage systems, and electric vehicles. Experiences in the field reveal that power semiconductor devices are the most critical component in the power conditioning unit in terms of failure rate. Power devices reliability analysis and prediction play an essential role in determining the overall functionality of renewable energy power conversion systems. In this paper, the reliability of various DC-DC converters is predicted using the Markov analysis method with the help of the Symbolic Hierarchical Automated Reliability and Performance Evaluator tool. This paper reports mainly on the reliability of power electronic devices as they are a severe risk factor to converter system reliability. Comparative analysis of converters gives an explicit knowledge of which system is best concerning the reliability point of view.