Title :
Ratings of semiconductors for AC drives
Author :
Gilmore, Thomas ; Sladky, Raymond G.
Author_Institution :
Stand. Drives Dev., Rockwell Autom., Mequon, WI, USA
Abstract :
This paper discusses the characteristics and limitations of various power semiconductors used in motor controls and drives. Semiconductor types discussed include the insulated gate bipolar transistor (IGBT), transistor (bipolar and MOS device), SCR, gate-turn-off transistor (thyristor) (GTO), and diode. Important limitations, including voltage rating, current ratings, safe operating area, heat transfer characteristics, and limitations due to a particular device characteristic are discussed. The focus is on the IGBT; its advantages and disadvantages are discussed, as well as how it can be rated in a drive application
Keywords :
AC motor drives; DC-AC power convertors; bipolar transistor switches; insulated gate bipolar transistors; invertors; power bipolar transistors; power semiconductor switches; thyristors; AC motor drives; IGBT; MOS device; SCR; bipolar; characteristics; current ratings; gate-turn-off transistor; heat transfer characteristics; insulated gate bipolar transistor; invertors; limitations; power semiconductors ratings; safe operating area; voltage rating; Costs; Insulated gate bipolar transistors; MOS devices; MOSFETs; Motor drives; Pulse width modulation; Semiconductor device packaging; Semiconductor diodes; Thermal management; Thyristors;
Journal_Title :
Industry Applications, IEEE Transactions on
