This technical specification describes the operation conditions and typical characteristics of Active Infeed Converters (AIC) of all technologies and topologies which can be connected between the electrical power supply system (lines) and a current or voltage stiff d.c.-side and which can convert electrical power (active and reactive) in both directions (generative or regenerative).

Applications with AIC are realized together for example with d.c.-sides of adjustable speed Power Drive Systems (PDS), Uninterruptible Power Systems (UPS), active filters, photovoltaic systems, wind turbine systems, etc., of all voltages and power sizes.

Active Infeed Converters are generally connected between the electrical power supply system (lines) and a current or voltage d.c.-side, with the objective to disburden the system from low frequency harmonics (e.g. less than 1 kHz) by a sinusoidal approach of the lines current. Some of them can additionally control the harmonic distortion of an applied voltage or current.

AIC are able to control the power factor of a power supply system section by moving the electrical power (active and reactive) in both directions (generative or regenerative), which enables energy saving in the system and stabilization of the power supply voltage.

The following is excluded from the scope: