The most complete introduction to IGBT modules in 2023

IGBTs are used in many applications, such as motor drives, industrial control, power transmission, renewable energy, and electric transportation, mainly because IGBTs provide a convenient and reliable power-switching solution for handling high-power and high-voltage applications. For a semiconductor with such a wide range of applications and importance, we must understand it in depth. Below, Jinftry introduces five aspects of what is an IGBT module, the working principle of the IGBT module, what are the advantages of the IGBT module, the specific application of the IGBT module, and the precautions during the use of the IGBT module.

1. What is an IGBT module

IGBT is the abbreviation of Insulated Gate Bipolar Transistor. It is a composite fully-controlled voltage-driven power semiconductor device composed of BJT and MOS. It has the advantages of high input impedance of MOSFET and low conduction voltage drop of GTR. The saturation voltage of GTR is low, and the carrying current density is large, but the driving current is large; the driving power of MOSFET is small, the switching speed is fast, but the conduction voltage drop is large, and the current carrying density is small. The IGBT combines the advantages of the above two devices, with low driving power and low saturation voltage.

The most common form of IGBT is Module, not a single tube. The IGBT module is a modular semiconductor product that is packaged by IGBT and FWD through a specific circuit bridge. It has the characteristics of energy saving, convenient installation and maintenance, and stable heat dissipation.

2. Working principle of the IGBT module

The working principle of the IGBT module is similar to that of a single IGBT device, but multiple IGBT devices are included in the module to increase the power and voltage-carrying capacity. The following is a detailed description of the working principle of the IGBT module:

1) Module structure: IGBT modules usually consist of multiple IGBT devices, drive circuits, protection circuits, and other auxiliary components. These components are integrated into a modular package to provide a complete power switch solution.

2) IGBT device: The IGBT module contains multiple IGBT devices connected in parallel or series. Each IGBT device consists of an Emitter, Base, and Collector, similar to the structure of a single IGBT device. These devices are designed to withstand high currents and high voltages.

3) Drive circuit: The drive circuit of the IGBT module is used to control the turn-on and turn-off of the IGBT device. They provide appropriate voltage and current signals to activate or deactivate IGBT devices. The driving circuit generates an appropriate pulse signal according to the application requirements and connects to the gate of the IGBT device through the Gate.

4) Protection function: IGBT modules usually integrate a variety of protection functions to ensure the safe operation of modules and systems. These protection functions include over-current protection, over-temperature protection, over-voltage protection, short-circuit protection, etc. When the module detects an abnormal situation, the protection circuit will take corresponding measures, such as cutting off the current, sounding an alarm, or triggering a fail-safe mechanism.

5) Control signal: The IGBT module receives a control signal from an external control circuit. These control signals may be signals generated by microprocessors, logic circuits, or other control devices. Control signals include turn-on and turn-off sequences, PWM signals, etc., and are used to control the turn-on and turn-off states of IGBT devices.

6) Working process: When the drive circuit provides a forward bias voltage to the gate of the IGBT device, a forward voltage barrier is formed to overcome the reverse barrier in the drift region. This allows current to flow from the collector through the base and emitter and creates a current amplification effect. The IGBT device is in the on state, has a low on-resistance, and can withstand large currents. When the drive circuit provides a reverse bias voltage or no voltage, the IGBT device enters an off state, and current cannot flow through the collector and emitter.

By controlling the signal and input of the drive circuit, the switching and control of the IGBT module can be realized. IGBT modules provide reliable power switching functions in high-power and high-voltage applications, used in areas such as motor drives, frequency converters, power transmission, and industrial controls.

3. What are the advantages of IGBT modules?

IGBT modules have many advantages that make them the preferred solution in high-power and high-voltage applications. The following are the main advantages of IGBT modules:

1) High current carrying capacity: The IGBT module consists of multiple IGBT devices connected in parallel or in series to increase the overall current carrying capacity. This enables the IGBT modules to handle high-power applications and withstand high current loads.

2) High voltage capability: The design of the IGBT module allows multiple IGBT devices to work in a series configuration, thereby achieving higher voltage carrying capacity. This makes them suitable for applications requiring high-voltage switching and control, such as power transmission and industrial motor drives.

3) High-efficiency performance: The IGBT module has low on-resistance and low switching loss, thus providing higher efficiency. Low on-resistance reduces energy loss and heat generation, while low switching losses reduce energy loss during power conversion.

4) High switching speed: The IGBT module has a fast switching speed, thereby achieving fast switching operation and response time. This enables the module to complete current switching and control in a short time, suitable for high-frequency applications.

5) Integrated drive circuit: The IGBT module usually integrates the drive circuit, which simplifies the system design and integration process. These drive circuits can provide appropriate voltage and current signals to control the turn-on and turn-off of IGBT devices, reducing the need for external circuits and components.

6) Protection function: IGBT modules usually have a variety of protection functions, such as over-current protection, over-temperature protection, and over-voltage protection. These protection functions can detect abnormal conditions in time and take appropriate measures to prevent device or system damage.

7) Reliability and stability: The IGBT module is precisely designed and manufactured with high reliability and stability. They can operate for a long time in harsh working environments and can withstand adverse factors such as high temperature, high voltage, and electromagnetic interference.

To sum up, IGBT modules have several advantages in high power and high voltage applications, including high current carrying capability, high voltage capability, high-efficiency performance, high switching speed, integrated drive circuits, protection functions, and reliability and stability. These advantages make IGBT modules an important part of the field of energy conversion and power control and are widely used in industry, transportation, energy, and power fields.

4. Specific application of the IGBT module

IGBT modules are widely used in many fields, the following are some common specific application examples:

1) Motor drive: IGBT modules are used in motor drive systems, including industrial motors, electric vehicles, electric locomotives, etc. They control the speed, steering, and torque output of electric motors for efficient energy conversion and precise control.

2) Inverter: Inverter is a device that converts alternating current into adjustable frequency and voltage, and is used to drive various electric equipment. The IGBT module plays a key role in the frequency converter, enabling efficient control of the supply current for precise speed and torque control.

3) Power transmission: IGBT modules play an important role in power transmission and power conversion. They are used for power switching and control in direct current transmission systems, flexible alternating current transmission systems, and high voltage direct current transmission systems. The high voltage carrying capacity and low power loss of the IGBT module make it a key component in power transmission.

4) Transformer: IGBT modules are used in transformers for efficient energy conversion and voltage control. They enable efficient transformer coupling and power conditioning for voltage regulation, grid stability, and power quality control in power systems.

5) Renewable energy systems: Renewable energy systems, such as solar and wind power generation systems, need to convert unstable energy sources into usable electricity. IGBT modules are used to control and optimize the energy conversion process, ensuring efficient energy harvesting and power output.

6) Industrial control: IGBT modules are used for switching and controlling high power loads in industrial automation and industrial control systems. For example, it is used to control industrial furnaces, metallurgical equipment, electrical equipment, resistance welding machines, etc.

7) Medical equipment: The application of IGBT modules in medical equipment is becoming more and more common, such as medical imaging equipment, electrotherapy equipment, and surgical equipment. They are used for high-power and high-frequency power transmission and control.

These are just some common application examples IGBT modules are also widely used in many other fields and equipment, including power electronics, transportation, telecommunications equipment, agricultural equipment, etc. Its high power, high voltage, high-efficiency performance, and reliability make IGBT modules a key technology in the field of energy conversion and power control.

5. Precautions during the use of IGBT modules

Since the IGBT module is a MOSFET structure, the gate of the IGBT is electrically isolated from the emitter through an oxide film. Because the oxide film is very thin, its breakdown voltage generally reaches 20-30V. Therefore, gate breakdown due to static electricity is one of the common causes of IGBT failure. Therefore, the following points should be paid attention to in use:

1) When using the module, try not to touch the drive terminal part with your hands. When you must touch the module terminal, first discharge the static electricity on the human body or clothes with a large resistance to the ground, and then touch;

2) When using conductive materials to connect the drive terminals of the module, please do not connect the module before the wiring is connected;

3) Try to operate under the condition that the bottom plate is well grounded.

What are the common IGBT modules? The following are examples of some common IGBT modules, listing 10 common models:

CM100DU-24NFH, FF300R12KE4, NGTB15N120LWG, FGA25N120ANTD, CM300DU-12F

FF600R12ME4, CM600HA-24H, IXGN60N60C2D1, STGW30H60DFB, APT75GP120J.

This is just a small selection of common IGBT module models, there are many other models and brands available in the market to meet the needs of different applications. Please note that the models of IGBT modules may vary depending on the manufacturer and specific specifications, so please refer to the relevant technical specifications and application requirements when selecting. Well-known IGBT module manufacturers: Infineon Technologies、IXYS、ON Semiconductor、Toshiba、Fairchild Semiconductor、Powerex、STMicroelectronics、ROHM.

Summary:

An IGBT module is a packaged device that integrates multiple IGBT devices, drive circuits, and protection functions to handle high-power and high-voltage applications. They play important roles in areas such as motor drives, frequency converters, power transmission, renewable energy, and industrial controls. The IGBT module has a high current carrying capacity, high voltage capability, high-efficiency performance, and reliability, and realizes precise power switching and control by controlling current and voltage. By integrating the drive circuit and protection functions, the IGBT module simplifies the system design and integration process and provides an efficient and safe power solution. Whether it is driving a motor, controlling a frequency converter, or realizing renewable energy conversion, the IGBT module provides reliable technical support for the field of energy conversion and power control.