Factors affecting the safety of inverter IGBT modules - News - Global IC Trade Starts Here.

High frequency probe with customizable specifications, including high frequency lines and other configurations.

L0504-Murata muRATA common mode inductor, 90Ω, 150mA, ideal for noise filtering and signal integrity improvement.

When an inverter encounters abnormal operating conditions, it's crucial to implement shutdown or other protective measures to safeguard the IGBT module as much as possible. Several factors can impact or even compromise the safety of IGBT modules:

• Voltage Factors
  • If the power supply voltage is too high, it may exceed the safe operating range of the IGBT module, leading to breakdown and damage.
  • If the voltage is too low, the module may not have enough load capacity, causing increased current draw and potential motor stalling, which can endanger the IGBT.
  • Fluctuations in the power supply voltage, such as when the DC link filter capacitor loses capacity, can lead to surge currents and voltage spikes, posing a risk to the IGBT’s operation.
  • The control voltage of the IGBT is also important. If the driving voltage is too low, it can cause under-excitation, increasing internal conduction resistance, power loss, and temperature rise, which may result in module failure.
• Current Factors
  • Overcurrent in light or moderate states falls into the inverse time protection area, allowing some tolerance before triggering a response.
  • In severe overcurrent or short-circuit situations, immediate and rapid disconnection is necessary to prevent damage.
• Temperature Factors
  • Mild temperature increases can be managed through forced air cooling or other thermal management techniques.
  • If the temperature rises significantly, the system should initiate a shutdown to protect the IGBT from overheating.
• Other Factors
  • Abnormalities in the drive circuit, such as the loss of negative voltage control in the cutoff loop, can lead to unintended IGBT activation and damage.
  • Issues within the control or detection circuits, like drifting reference voltages in the detection system, can cause improper protection actions, reducing the effectiveness of safety mechanisms.

Proper monitoring and control of these factors are essential to ensure the longevity and reliability of IGBT modules in various applications. Implementing robust protection strategies and regular maintenance can significantly reduce the risk of failure and improve overall system performance.