New Industry Products

11kW 1U Isolated Bidirectional Digital DC-DC Converter

April 17, 2017 by Jeff Shepard

TDK Corporation has expanded its EZA series of isolated dc-dc converters in the TDK-Lambda brand by developing the 11kW model (EZA11K), which boasts more than four times greater output than the current model. By adding this new product to the 2.5kW model lineup, the company will help customers to downsize their large-capacity devices. TDK-Lambda Corporation will begin sales of this product this April.

Currently, lithium ion batteries and other high-performance secondary batteries are more widely used. For example, they are used for vehicles such as PHVs and EVs, industrial purposes such as peak shaving and emergency power supplies and household purposes. In addition, lower prices of solar panels and other equipment have resulted in the growing need for consumption of electricity from renewable energy such as solar power and wind power, in addition to the established practice of selling such electricity to electric power companies. This has also resulted in the growing demand for secondary batteries, which are used with the above equipment.

The EZA series units are isolated dc-dc converters that can handle bidirectional power conversion -- that is, upward conversion and downward conversion between the high-voltage side and the secondary battery side -- without using an additional power supply unit. The EZA11K boasts a maximum output of 11kW, which is more than four times greater than that of the current model, despite its compact, slim dimensions (1U height and full-rack size).

Bidirectional conversion is possible with maximum efficiency at 95%. The unit is also capable of operating autonomously, ready to automatically change its conversion direction to stabilize input or output voltage. It is also possible to quickly change its conversion direction, without stopping the converter. The unit can be paralleled for use with a system whose output capacity exceeds 11kW.

By integrating circuit control technologies, including digital control technologies, with low-loss magnetic materials the company will further contribute to saving power and reducing CO2 emissions while moving towards a smart society. This product will be exhibited at the TDK booth of Techno Frontier 2017, which will be held at Makuhari Messe from April 19 to April 21, 2017.

Major applications are expected to include: Energy storage systems for peak shaving and equalization of power consumption/emergency power supplies. Energy recycling systems from motors to help reduce peak power consumption or for saving energy. Stabilization of dc bus of renewable energy systems.

Main features and advantages include: Capable of handling bidirectional power conversion with a maximum rated output capacity of 11kW, without an additional unit. Isolated topology that has the advantage in safety and noise management. Compact size and slim dimensions: W: 422.8, H: 43.6 (1U), D: 530 mm (2.5kW unit is W: 422.8, H: 43.6 (1U), D: 400 mm). High efficiency: Maximum conversion efficiency at 95% or greater in both directions (at maximum rating). Capable of operating autonomously, ready to automatically change the conversion direction to stabilize input or output voltage. Capable of quickly changing conversion direction, without stopping the converter. The mode of current, voltage, and conversion direction can be controlled and monitored by external devices through the RS485 serial communication.