Parallel operation of IGBT discrete devices
20 February 2008
Power Electronics / Power Management
As applications for IGBT components have continued to expand rapidly, semiconductor manufacturers have responded by providing IGBTs in both discrete and modular packages to meet the needs of their customers.
Discrete IGBTs span the voltage range from 250 to 1400 V and are available up to 75 A, which is the maximum current limit for both the TO-247 and TO-264 terminals. IGBT modules cover the same voltage range but, due to their construction, can control currents up to 1000 A. However, on an ampere per rand basis, the IGBT module is more expensive so that for cost-sensitive applications: welding, low voltage motor control, small UPS, etc, design engineers would like to parallel discrete IGBT devices.
The parallel operation of MOSFETs has proven to be successful. Now experience has shown that it is possible to achieve similarly satisfactory performance in paralleling IGBT devices, as long as certain guidelines are followed.
Remember that all high current IGBT and MOSFET modules consist of paralleled IGBT dice and, while it is easier for a semiconductor manufacturer to select dice for paralleling, an OEM manufacturer can obtain similar results.
The following is a list of guidelines for paralleling IGBT discretes, which in many ways parallels those for paralleling MOSFETs:
1. Each IGBT device must have its own gate resistor.
2. Arrange lay-out of devices so that the current paths are symmetrical.
3. Mount the parallel parts next to each other on the same heatsink so that they are thermally coupled.
4. All the paralleled parts within 'one switch group' should have the following characteristics:
a. Be made from silicon dice from the same wafer lot (see below).
b. Threshold voltages should be matched to within 0,10 V.
c. Saturation voltages at normal operating current level should be matched to within 0,05 V.
5. If the IGBT component contains an anti-parallel diode, match the forward voltage drop of the diode to within 0,1 V.
6. If it proves impractical to perform the matching outlined in step 4, then insert a resistor in series with each emitter to force current sharing. Pick a standard value for the resistor that is closest to 0,2 V divided by the nominal current per IGBT. Resistor tolerance should not be greater than 1%.
Further reading:
Wine farm turns to solar installation for power
Current Automation
Power Electronics / Power Management
Slanghoek Wine farm opted into a power purchase agreement to lower overall electricity costs and enter a true sustainable future, with a price-competitive edge on lower running costs.
Read more...
Industrial PSU family
Brabek
Power Electronics / Power Management
The RACPRO1 family of PSUs supports a universal DC input voltage range from 430 to 850 V DC, allowing the parts to support renewable energy and microgrid applications.
Read more...
Integrated POL voltage regulators
EBV Electrolink
Power Electronics / Power Management
Infineon’s TDA38807 and TDA38806 are their highest density high-efficiency integrated point-of-load (IPOL) solutions for smart enterprise systems.
Read more...
Hi-Rel quarter-brick converters
Accutronics
Power Electronics / Power Management
Gaia Converter’s quarter-brick series DC-DC power modules provides output power levels ranging from 75 to 250 W in fixed output voltages.
Read more...
1700 V GaN Switcher IC
Future Electronics
Power Electronics / Power Management
Power Integrations has introduced a new member of its InnoMux-2 family of single-stage regulated multi-output offline power supply ICs, the industry’s first 1700 V gallium nitride switch.
Read more...
How ADI battery management solutions empower safer, smarter robots
Altron Arrow
Editor's Choice Power Electronics / Power Management
Choosing an appropriate battery pack and its accompanying battery management system is a critical decision in designing an autonomous mobile robot.
Read more...
Industrial power supply range
RFiber Solutions
Power Electronics / Power Management
SynQor’s ruggedised AC-DC and DC-DC converters and filters are designed for a wide range of industrial applications, including those required to withstand harsh environments.
Read more...
PSUs for industrial applications
Power Electronics / Power Management
RECOM’s REDIIN120/240/480 series of AC-DC converters perfectly corresponds with customer needs by exhibiting high efficiency and low energy consumption at no load.
Read more...
Highest density automotive-grade power modules
Altron Arrow
Power Electronics / Power Management
Vicor has released three automotive-grade power modules for 48 V EV systems, which deliver industry-leading power density.
Read more...
MOSFET for automotive applications
Altron Arrow
Power Electronics / Power Management
Infineon’s OptiMOS 7 100 V is offered in the company’s versatile and robust, high-current SSO8 5 x 6 mm
2 SMD package.
Read more...
printer friendly version