Photovoltaic inverter white igbt

Can IGBTs be used in a solar inverter?

These topologies use IGBTs as the power discrete semiconductor of choice for achieving high eficiency and high reliability. This application note presents how Bourns® Trench-Gate Field-Stop (TGFS) IGBTs with co-packaged Fast Recovery Diodes (FRDs) can be used in a solar inverter application to enable eficient power conversion.

How do IGBTs work in a PV inverter?

During operation inside a PV inverter, IGBTs are subject to AC stress conditions as opposed to DC stress conditions. This typically consists of a 60 Hz on-off cycle, with a Pulse-Width-Modulated (PWM) signal on the order of 10 – 15 kHz superimposed on the lower-frequency cycle.

Can Bourns® Trench-Gate field-stop (TGFs) IGBTs be used in a solar inverter?

This application note presents how Bourns® Trench-Gate Field-Stop (TGFS) IGBTs with co-packaged Fast Recovery Diodes (FRDs) can be used in a solar inverter application to enable eficient power conversion. It also outlines the optimal IGBT features necessary for superior thermal performance while delivering low power dissipation.

What is an integrated MOSFET (IGBT)?

In practice, integrated modules of multiple MOSFETs or IGBTs are typically used at the higher power levels. Central inverters in utility-scale applications generate three-phase AC output at megawatt levels with the highest PV panel voltages and multilevel or paralleled inverters using typically IGBT modules.

Are insulated-gate bipolar transistors a good choice for solar inverter applications?

For solar inverter applications, it is well known that insulated-gate bipolar transistors (IGBTs) ofer benefits compared to other types of power devices, like high-current-carrying capability, gate control using voltage instead of current and the ability to match the co-pack diode with the IGBT.

Can IGBT degradation cause a failure of an inverter?

This IGBT degradation would most likely not cause the failure of an inverter, but could degrade performance. Furthermore, it is highly questionable if a device exhibiting significant instability would operate for the expected lifetime of an inverter (i.e. 5 to 20 years).