High Frequency Alternator, Power Frequency Conversion (HFA-PFC) Technology for Lightweigh Tactical Power Generation

Major technological improvements over the past few years have made high efficiency power generation possible. High efficiency high frequency alternators are now available off the shelf. Diesel engines have also been improved and are even available in air cooled models. Power electronic components have made major improvements in size and efficiency. We intend to update gen-sets to state of the art in these areas and to produce efficient power conversion devices. To increase the efficiency and reduce the weight of tactical gen-sets we propose the following: Connect a power frequency converter to a light weight high frequency alternator that is driven by a stationary diesel engine. The frequency of the output voltage will be controlled by the power frequency converter and therefor is independent of engine RPM. To further improve the efficiency, the power frequency converter will have the ability to adjust the engine speed for different loading conditions. The power converter will use the latest power components that are more efficient by virtue of their low power dissipation.