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Power Modules - Typical Applications

Typical Power Module Applications
Power modules are power switching/control circuit elements integrated into convenient isolated-base packages that offer a broad spectrum of commonly used diode, SCr, or SCR/Diode circuit configurations and ratings. Power modules often power semiconductor devices, and also provide an easy way to cool the device as well as connect them to the outer circuit. Power Modules are mechanically and thermally optimized for ease of assembly, long life and reliable operation. There are several common structures that power modules are available in, such as IGBT or MOSFET.
Power Modules share many qualities with diodes, and are often classified by the diode that they feature (Fast recovery, Hybrid SCR-High Voltage, Schottky, Standard, Standard Hybrid SCR, Standard SCR, etc), for example. The Zener and Avalanche effects are still applicable in the appropriate diode configurations.
IGBT
Powerex IGBT Fuji Electric IGBT Eupec IGBT
An IGBT (Insulated-gate bipolar transistor) is a three-terminal power semiconductor device. IGBTs act primarily as an electronic switch and feature both high efficiency and fast switching. LGBTs combine the simple gate-driven characteristics of MOSFETs with the high-current and low-saturation voltage capability of bipolar transistors. IGBTs are often best suited for medium to high-power applications ranging anywhere from air conditioners and stereo systems all the way to trains and electric cars. Large-scale IGBT modules will often consist of many devices running in parallel.
MOSFET
A Power MOSFET (Metal Oxide Semiconductor field-effect transistor) is designed to handle significant power levels. It has the advantage of high commutation speed and good efficiency at low voltages compared to other power semiconductor devices such as an IGBT. Like an IGBT, it features an isolated gate that makes it easy to drive. Power MOSFETs are more often used in low voltage (less than 200v) in low voltage applications, often used in power supplies, DC to DC converters, and low voltage motor controllers. In applications requiring high voltage, high current, and low switching frequencies, an IGBT is preferable. When low voltage, low current, and high switching frequencies are required, a MOSFET will be the most suitable.
MOSFETs are also capable of conducting in the opposite direction, though this can be rectified by using a freewheeling diode with an IGBT if the application is more suited for an IGBT.
Typical Power Module Applications
Typical applications of Power Modules include:
  • AC motor drive front end
  • Appliances
  • Battery charging
  • Cathodic protection
  • Converters
  • Conveyors
  • DC-choppers
  • Electroplating
  • Elevator controls
  • Half-Bridges
  • Heater controls
  • HVAC controls
  • Inverters
  • Medical Electronics
  • Motor controls, AC
  • Motor controls, DC
  • Motor starters
  • Power Factor Correction
  • Power Supplies
  • Reverse polarity protection
  • Switches
  • Three-phase inverters
  • Traction
  • Transportation
  • UPS systems
  • Welding
Power Module Product Overview Video
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