The latest 1200V IGBTs from STMicroelectronics NV leverage second-generation trench-gate field-stop high-speed technology to boost energy efficiency and ruggedness in applications such as solar inverters, welders, uninterruptible power supplies, and PFC converters. ST's new H series 1200V IGBTs have up to 15% lower turn-off losses and up to 30% lower turn-on losses. The saturation voltage (Vce(sat)) down to 2.1V (typical, at nominal collector current and 100 degrees C) ensures minimal overall losses for higher-efficiency operation at switching frequencies above 20kHz. In addition, these new 1200V IGBTs offer the option of an integrated very fast-recovery anti-parallel diode for optimum performance in hard-switching circuits and minimizing energy losses in circuits with a freewheel diode.
The new IGBTs are also extremely rugged; with latch-up-free operation at up to four times the nominal current, and minimum short-circuit time of 5µs (at 150 degrees C starting junction temperature). The extended maximum operating junction temperature of 175 degrees C helps enhance service lifetime and simplify system cooling. A wide Safe Operating Area (SOA) boosts reliability in applications where high power dissipation is required.
Further advantages of the new devices include excellent EMI (electromagnetic interference) characteristics thanks to a near ideal waveform during switching events, which competing high-frequency devices cannot achieve. A positive temperature coefficient of Vce(sat), with close distribution of parameters from device to device, allows safer parallel operation in high-power applications. ST’s H-series IGBTs are in mass production now, in 15A, 25A, and 40A versions, priced from $2.18 in TO-247 package for orders of 1,000 units.
