Cooperation of the Plasma Reactor with a Converter Power Supply Equipped with a Transformer with Special Design

Plasma generation by means of electrical discharge requires specialized power supply systems. The applicability of plasma for various plasma processes depends on its parameters, and these, in turn, depend on the parameters of power supply systems. Arc plasma can be unstable, generating a lot of electromagnetic interference, overvoltage and overcurrent. The power system of a plasma reactor must guarantee good plasma control characteristics, be immune to disturbances and ensure good cooperation with the power grid. This article analyzes the cooperation of a three-phase plasma reactor, with a gliding arc discharge and a power supply system of a new type. This system integrates an AC/DC/AC converter and a five-column transformer with a special design in a single device. Using the properties of magnetic circuits, it is possible to integrate the functions of ignition and sustaining the burning of the discharge in the reactor in a single transformer. The proper design of the transformer is crucial to achieve the good cooperation of the AC/DC/AC converter with both the plasma reactor and the power supply network. The presented power supply design shows a number of positive features, predisposing it to powering arc plasma reactors.