Parallel connection of integrated gate commutated thyristors (IGCTs) and diodes

  • Robert Hermann*
  • , Steffen Bernet
  • , Yongsug Suh
  • , Peter K. Steimer
  • *Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Contribution to journalJournal articlepeer-review

Abstract

This paper describes the parallel connection of 4.5 kV integrated gate commutated thyristors (IGCTs) and diodes. The impact of varying device characteristics on the stationary current distribution of parallel connected semiconductors is investigated. Possible solutions to improve the current sharing at steady state are presented. A thermal stabilization effect of parallel connected IGCTs is discussed. Furthermore, the behavior of parallel connected devices during switching transients is investigated experimentally in a 1.5-kV, 5-kA buck converter. Especially, the impact of asymmetrical circuit layouts, magnetic couplings, different turn-on and turn-off delays, and junction temperatures are considered. It is shown that a substantial current derating is necessary to enable a reliable operation of parallel IGCTs and diodes.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)2159-2170
Number of pages12
JournalIEEE Transactions on Power Electronics
Volume24
Issue number9
DOIs
StatePublished - 2009

Keywords

  • Balancing inductor
  • Current deviation
  • Integrated gate commutated thyristor (IGCT)
  • Parallel
  • Unbalance

Quacquarelli Symonds(QS) Subject Topics

  • Engineering - Electrical & Electronic
  • Engineering - Petroleum

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