Onsemi launches SiC-based IPMs
Onsemi has introduced the first generation of its 1200V SiC MOSFET based SPM 31 intelligent power modules (IPMs).
These EliteSiC SPM 31 IPMs are said to deliver the highest energy efficiency and power density in the smallest form factor compared to using Field Stop 7 IGBT technology, resulting in lower total system cost than any other leading solution on the market.
Their improved thermal performance, reduced power losses and ability to support fast switching speeds makes these IPMs suited for three-phase inverter drive applications such as electronically commutated (EC) fans in AI data centres, heat pumps, commercial HVAC systems, servo motors, robotics, variable frequency drives (VFDs), and industrial pumps and fans.
The EliteSiC SPM 31 IPMs offer several current ratings from 40A to 70A. Complemented by Onsemi’s IGBT SPM 31 IPM portfolio, covering low currents from 15A to 35A, Onsemi now provides the industry’s broadest range of scalable and flexible integrated power module solutions in a small package.
With the number and size of data centres growing, the demand for EC fans is expected to rise. These cooling fans maintain the ideal operating environment for all equipment in a data center and are essential for accurate, error-free data transmission. The SiC IPM ensures the EC fan operates reliably and at its highest efficiency.
For example, compared to a system solution that uses a current IGBT power integrated module (PIM) with power losses of 500W at 70 percent load, implementing highly efficient EliteSiC SPM 31 IPMs could reduce the annual energy consumption and cost per EC fan by 52 percent.
The fully integrated EliteSiC SPM 31 IPM consists of an independent high side gate driver, low voltage integrated circuit (LVIC), six EliteSiC MOSFETs and a temperature sensor (voltage temperature sensor (VTS) or thermistor).
The module is based on M3 SiC technology that shrinks die size and is optimised for hard-switching applications with improved short-circuit withstand time (SCWT) performance when used in the SPM 31 package, making them suitable for inverter motor drives for industrial use.
The MOSFETs are configured in a three-phase bridge with separate source connections for the lower legs for maximum flexibility in the choice of control algorithm.
